A 32-year-old kava vendor is reminding young people to learn about their business and grow themselves as entrepreneurs.

Seremaia Koroi, from Matavatucou, last Friday received $4980 worth of stock to rebuild and expand his business – Tee Jay Nem Kava shop, from the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

“These grants are a hand up designed to grow our youth’s business, by giving funds to achieve our dreams and aspirations,” he said.

Mr Koroi has been in the kava business for the past two years.

Selling kava from his home was his way to earn income for his extended family and help his wife, who was the only breadwinner then.

With his income, he is able to help put food on the table and finance the education of his family members, including his two sons.

After establishing a kava canteen, he did a business training workshop (CEFE – New Business Creation Course) conducted by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Lautoka, which has enabled him to learn more concepts of operating a business.

“It was an eye-opening experience for me and gave me the confidence to work on my kava canteen. I am very appreciative of the training opportunity from the Ministry of Youth and Sports.”

Minister for Youth and Sports Parveen Bala said: “These recipients are role models for our youth. They have taken the initiative to start businesses on a small scale.”

Edited by Ivamere Nataro

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