Group Photo (L-R) Paradise Beverages Graduate Trainees Lusiana Malani and , Paradise Beverages Maleli Varawa (LF2023 Participant), Leadership Fiji CEO Sharyne Fong, Leadership Fiji Administrative Officer Rosie- Ann Low and Leadership Fiji Program Coordinator Mira Chipongian
Paradise Beverages, Fiji’s leading alcohol beverages manufacturer, is thrilled to announce its
continued support for the development of future leaders in Fiji through the renewal of its
sponsorship of the Leadership Fiji program. As part of this exciting collaboration, Maleli
Varawa, a dedicated and ambitious staff member of Paradise Beverages, has been selected to
participate in the Leadership Fiji 2023 program, becoming the first employee from the floor
to be part of this prestigious initiative.
When asked about his motivation for applying to Leadership Fiji, Maleli exudes both
confidence and humility. He believes in his leadership capabilities but recognises the value of
guidance and mentoring to further enhance his potential. The program’s focus on developing
leaders captured Maleli’s attention, making it an opportunity he could not pass up.
Maleli 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 Maleli’s determination to embrace the
Leadership Fiji program.
Being selected for the Leadership Fiji 2023 program fills Maleli with a profound sense of pride
and accomplishment. Close to 100 candidates were shortlisted for interviews, only 30 were
chosen to participate, and Maleli feels blessed and honoured to represent Paradise Beverages
in this prestigious program.
Maleli joined Paradise Beverages in 2009 (operating then as Fosters Group Pacific Limited) 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.
Over the years, Maleli 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, Maleli was offered the opportunity to train
as a Continuous Improvement Team Leader in 2023. Following a successful interview, he was
appointed as Team Leader Continuous Improvement in April. As Team Leader Continuous
Classification – Internal Improvement, Maleli will drive strategies to enhance operational efficiency and promote a
culture of continuous improvement across the organization.
As Maleli delves into the Leadership Program, he emphasises the program’s impressive track
record over the past 20 years. Maleli recognises the program’s significant impact on the
nation, empowering upcoming leaders to make a positive difference in society. He also
acknowledges the support and encouragement of his wife, who has been instrumental in
motivating him to apply for the leadership program.
Maleli’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, Maleli stands as a shining example of how investment in leadership development
can lead to transformative outcomes.
Paradise Beverages General Manager, Mike Spencer said that a large part of Paradise’s identity
is 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.”
Paradise Beverages is immensely proud to support Maleli Varawa in his journey with
Leadership Fiji. Through this partnership, the company reaffirms its commitment to nurturing
future leaders within the organisation and contributing to the advancement of Fiji’s leadership
landscape.
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.”
For more information on Paradise Beverages:
Log onto the Paradise Beverages website www.paradisebeverages.com.fj or contact the Head of
Marketing, Etrina Simpson, on Etrina.Simpson@ccep.com
For more information on Leadership Fiji:
Please contact Sharyne Fong, Chief Executive Officer on email
sharyne@leadershipfiji.org or mobile +679 7774 857
