There is untapped young talent and potential in our country, says the Minister for Youth and Sports Parveen Bala.

He made this statement at Navuniivi Village, where he presented two grants; one to a youth group and one to individual youth. He also launched the youth group’s logo.

Mr Bala said he was grateful to the youths of Navuniivi Village for their togetherness in helping with developments around the village

“Your contribution to climate change adaptation in the form of your beachfront mangrove restoration project and marine protected area is exactly the type of activities that is encouraged by the Government today,” he said.

In addition to the grant, the youths of Navitilevu also received farming tools, a chainsaw and rugby equipment.

The group consisted of more than 15 young people.

The individual recipient of the second grant, who travelled from Ba, was the leader of a group of unemployed men on social media – the K9E Brothers.

Adriu Naisiroki who is also the operator of Sweet Cakes where he sells juice and cake. He said he had applied for the grant in 2018 and had finally received it today.

“It has taken two years to receive this grant and it has taught me patience and perseverance,” he said.

“Since I applied, a lot has happened. I had purchased an oven which I had just finally paid off to start the business.

“The grant given today which includes a refrigerator, cake mixer is enough capital stock to keep the business going is more than I could ask for.”

The K9 Brothers have been very active on the Barter for Better Fiji Facebook page.

Mr Naisiroki said: “This is just the start and by trading our services for tools and such, this will enable us to own our own equipment for startup.”

Also present at the event was rugby sevens player Paula Draunisenikula, who is also a member of the Navitilevu youth group. He encouraged the youths to keep at it.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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