Naturaga Graduates, Plans to Support Family

Paulina Naturaga hopes to help her husband, who has been the sole family breadwinner for the past two decades.

The Naivaka, Nawakasiga, Bua woman was among 15 Public Rental Board (PRB) tenants from Simla in Lautoka, who graduated with a Certificate of Participation in Financial Literacy last week.

The three-day training was provided by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, in collaboration with the PRB.

Ms Naturaga, a mother of two, expressed her aspirations, recalling her completion of Year 12 at Nadi SKM College.

She found work at a pizza eatery before joining Ghimli Textiles as a machinist, a role she held until the business closed in 2006.

Her husband is an electrician, and she wants to help him by taking on more responsibilities.

She said the comprehensive training series was designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.

“This study has been very handy for me as it has broadened my knowledge for my aspirations in business,” said Ms Naturaga.

“I want to venture into skills-based businesses like fabric and tie-dye.”

This is the first literacy training for the PRB estate in the west, with more sessions planned in the coming months for Nadi and Lautoka PRB tenants.

Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa congratulated the participants and encouraged them to apply what they have learned in their daily lives.

“The training provides essential insights into business management, financial literacy, and market linkages, aiming to promote entrepreneurial growth among MSMEs and create networking opportunities,” said Mr Nalumisa.

“The training covers a wide range of topics, including marketing plans, business culture, recordkeeping, cash flow management, pricing, profit, and more.”

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