Shoeshine boys in Suva on Tuesday underwent customer services training to enhance their ability to earn more income.

In conjunction with the Fiji Police Force and the Australian High Commission’s Social Club, the Rescue Mission Community Association facilitated the two-day workshop.

Rescue Mission’s Pastor, Jekope Serukalou, said the workshop was also part of a project they were implementing to introduce new seats to be used by shoeshine boys.

“The objective is to establish shoeshining as a legitimate trade and increase the opportunities of shoeshine workers to earn a living wage,” Pastor Serukalou said.

“It will also increase the pride, self-esteem and well-being of shoeshine workers.”

Each shoeshine boy who attended the workshop will be presented with a certificate during the launch of their new shoeshine seats later.

The certificates will enable them to venture into becoming security officers or porters at airports.

Vetaia Taladai, 38, who has been shining shoes for the past three years, acknowledged the Fiji Police Force for engaging and involving him in the work.

“I find the workshop very educational and an eye-opener as well because through this we will be able to get into other jobs where we will be able to earn more money,” Mr Taladai said.

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