Food Processor Fiji Limited board director, Priyashni Chand, says they ensure that employees are made aware of issues prevalent in society such as cancer.

She highlighted this as the Vatuwaqa-based company commemorated Pinktober yesterday.

Around 55 per cent of women make up its workforce, she said, which was why creating awareness on breast cancer was vital to the company.

“We don’t just employ people and provide them with a better working environment,” she said.

“Cancer can affect any person at any age and it doesn’t have any barrier, so it’s better to create awareness within ourselves, our family and friends.”

Ms Chand said this issue was not a taboo and having dialogue and support systems were critical for those undergoing chemo therapies.

“If you look around the factory, you will see a woman working so hard and so diligently,” she said.

“Without them, the company would not be where it is today, in terms of providing quality-hydrated foods,” he said.

Speaking to workers, Ms Chand said every individual should not be fearful of getting examined.

She added that the company had an open-door policy for their staff were given the liberty to get themselves medically-examined.

“The faster you get checked, the better it is because I have seen the struggle of a cancer patient,” she said.

Ms Chand said if the company took care of its employees, empowers them, and creates awareness within, it would push the company to success and builds a sense of responsibility for individuals.

“You need to take care of yourself because your health is important.”

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