Essence Group (Fiji) Pte Limited, trading as Nama Fiji, has emerged as a true success story in the beauty and wellness industry, winning the Premier Small Business Operating Internationally Award at the Prime Minister’s International Business Awards held on November 30, 2024, at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort in Nadi.

This award, which recognizes companies with sales of less than FJ$1 million, celebrates businesses that have successfully developed unique products and expanded into international markets. Nama Fiji, a visionary brand harnessing Fiji's pristine natural resources, has captivated the global beauty industry with its luxurious skincare products, featuring the powerful Nama sea grapes, a local ingredient known for its remarkable skincare benefits.

Founder and Director of Nama Fiji, Deborah Sadranu, expressed her excitement and gratitude upon receiving the award.

“We are very excited. This is our first time entering the Prime Minister’s awards, and the team is absolutely thrilled. We have worked hard to grow into international exports, and this year, we have hit the export market in a big way. We attended nine trade shows globally and secured major distribution contracts, which has been phenomenal. We are incredibly proud to represent Fiji with a Fiji-made product, and all the hard work has paid off, thanks in part to the incredible support from Investment Fiji.”

Nama Fiji’s success story is a testament to its dedication and the power of its sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients.

Sadranu also shared her plans for the future, noting that next year will be a pivotal one for the company.

"With the distribution contracts we have secured, next year is going to be all about increasing our product output and continuing to grow our export business.We are incredibly excited about the fruits of our hard work coming to fruition,” she said.

Sadranu who is committed to empowering local communities, acknowledged the significant role played by the women harvesters from Somosomo village in Nadi, who spend up to eight hours a day gathering Nama sea grapes.

“Without the tireless work of the women who harvest our sea grapes, we would not be able to achieve our goals. This award is for them as much as it is for my team,” she said.

Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer, Kamal Chetty, congratulated Nama Fiji on its impressive achievements.

“Nama Fiji exemplifies the spirit of innovation and sustainability in the Pacific. By utilizing Fiji’s natural resources to create a globally recognized beauty brand, they have not only put Fiji on the map in the international beauty industry but have also demonstrated the incredible potential of small businesses in the region. Their ability to thrive in international markets is a testament to the uniqueness and quality of their products."

As Nama Fiji continues to grow and expand its presence, the company’s success serves as an inspiring example of how small businesses can innovate, penetrate international markets, and make a lasting impact while supporting local communities and promoting sustainability.

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