Paradise Beverages announced its continued support for the development of future leaders in through the renewal of its sponsorship of the Leadership Fiji program.
The country’s leading alcohol beverages manufacturer also highlighted one of its staff members who was selected to participate in the Leadership Fiji 2023 program and the first employee from the floor to be part of this prestigious initiative.
In a press release Paradise Beverages shared Maleli Varawa’s motivation in being part of the 2023 cohort.
According to the press release Mr Varawa was approached by the general manager and GM People & Culture, who heard positive feedback from his team leader regarding his leadership skills and growth within the organisation.
This encouragement further solidified his determination to embrace the Leadership Fiji program. It said Mr Varawa joined Paradise Beverages in 2009 (operating then as Fosters Group Pacific Ltd) for an industrial attachment and returned in 2010 for casual engineering employment after completing his studies.
In December 2011, he secured a permanent position as a production operator, demonstrating his dedication and proficiency and over the years, Mr Varawa excelled in various roles within the brewing department, progressing from a filtration assistant operator to a brewer.
He also took on additional responsibilities, relieving the Brewing Supervisor and contributing to the Samoa brewery during a work secondment.
In recognition of his experience and capabilities, he was offered the opportunity to train as a Continuous Improvement Team Leader in 2023.
After a successful interview, he was appointed as Team Leader Continuous Improvement in April. Paradise Beverages general manager Mike Spencer said a large part of Paradise’s identity was the support provided in development of the community through sponsorships such as this.
“We have a bold ambition and a great commitment to support our communities through sponsorships focused on sport, art, music, fashion, environment and leadership development.
“We value the lessons that the program provides which have helped our previous participants and numerous other leaders grow exponentially,” he said.
He said as Mr Varawa delved into the Leadership Program, he emphasised the program’s impressive track record over the past 20 years. According to Mr Spencer Mr Varawa’s story embodies the spirit of Leadership Fiji’s mission to develop and enhance the quality of leaders in Fiji.
As Paradise Beverages continues its ongoing support for this vital initiative, Mr Varawa stands as a shining example of how investment in leadership development can lead to transformative outcomes.
Leadership Fiji chief executive officer Sharyne Fong said, “We are absolutely delighted and grateful that Paradise Beverages is partnering with us again this year. It is through corporate support such as this that Leadership Fiji can fulfil its vision of developing and enhancing the quality of leaders in Fiji.”
