Youth group ventures into retail clothing business
A RA youth group has taken a bold step and ventured into the retail clothing business.
The Rokovuaka Veitacini Collection Youth Group in Nalawa decided to diversify from agriculture into clothing as a way to expand their income base.
Club secretary and spokesman Sailosi Konataci said the decision to venture from farming into retail clothing was to broaden the members’ mindset and to instil a sense of self-dependability.
“Rather than waiting for assistance from outside, we believe that awareness can be used to empower our youth collectively and individually especially for those who want to move into entrepreneurship,” he said.
“Our youths are our future and with the right focus and direction we can ensure a firm future for Rokovuaka.
“We have taken the first step through farming and now with the newly established clothing outlet and the blessings of our elders we are confident that our future is looking positive.”
While visiting the youth group at their village, Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Alipate Nagata lauded the initiative shown by the group members and he urged them to continue with their development work.
“This is a good initiative shown by the Veitacini Youth Group and it shows the positive mindset adopted by the members to ensure economic growth within the group which will filter down to the village and the surrounding communities,” he said.
“Your undertaking will complement your fundraising for a new farmhouse and this is what the Government wants.”
Mr Nagata said the “handout” mentality must be removed and the focus should be on “what you can do” before Government stepped in to assist.