Turning job loss into business success: Adi Senirewa’s comeback

After more than a decade in the classroom, Adi Senirewa Tavo Tafoi now spends her days around heavy machinery — a shift she describes as a world apart from teaching.

The 47-year-old mother of three worked for 13 years with the Ministry of Education before losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic under the “No Jab, No Job” policy.

Faced with starting over, she found an unlikely path in the machinery sector.

Her journey began when a gravel extraction venture in Nawairabe, Navosa, was registered under her name, allowing her to meet requirements linked to Government road construction works in Matokana.

What started as an opportunity soon grew into ambition.

Although the industry is largely dominated by men, with few iTaukei women involved, Ms Tafoi said she refused to be discouraged.

“Good things come to those who wait. Whatever we strive for, there will always be challenges. But we need to persevere and believe that what we work towards will come to pass,” she said.

With support from the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises — including a one-third contribution towards a bank loan — she purchased a 10-wheeler truck and an excavator.

Today, those machines are hired by a company in Suva, generating income for her family and laying the foundation for a growing business.

Yesterday, Ms Tafoi stood among recipients of the Integrated Human Resources Development Programme and the Co-operatives Development Fund at the Lautoka City Council Chambers — a moment that reflected how far she had come since losing her job.

Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development Esrom Immanuel, who presented the assistance, said the Government’s co-investment approach — including nearly $900,000 in grants and contributions from recipients — was designed to build ownership, accountability and sustainable growth.

He highlighted the role of micro, small and medium enterprises in job creation and food security, and stressed the importance of responsible asset management.

Mr Immanuel said the Ministry would continue supporting recipients through training, monitoring and guidance, encouraging them to use the assistance for long-term community and national benefit.