Ema Lewavetau, has been looking for ways to gain skills that could generate an income. With COL’s support, Ema enrolled in hand-soap making training offered by COL’s partner, FRIEND Fiji in Lautoka, that has equipped her with useful skills for the future.

“I was interested in attending this training because I am from Yasawa and there are many hotels on the island so my plan is to learn how to make soap and supply to the resort market so I can support my family,” she said.

In partnership with Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises & Development (FRIEND Fiji), COL has supported nearly 400 youths, including young women and youths with disability, in Fiji to build practical skills that can link to employment opportunities. Training has been offered on various topics including soap making, business management, organic farm management and food processing training.

Ms Frances Ferreira, COL Acting Director: Skills commented, “As part of the Partnership for ODFL in the Pacific Project, COL aims to achieve increased equitable access to learning and training opportunities for 5000 youths in the Pacific by 2025. COL is welcoming partnership with more NGOs to increase its reach to more youth, especially  in the remotest corners of the region.”