Naka Trading employs 20+ young men in brick-making venture
August 28, 2024 3:42 am | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Clifton Kissel.
Naka Trading has expanded its operations to include brick-making in the Club Hippique area of Port Vila, creating employment opportunities for local youth.
The initiative, led by owner Andrew Wilbur Napuat, aims to support unemployed young people by offering them meaningful work and helping to stabilise their communities.
Laeno Solomon, one of the brick-makers, praised Mr. Napuat for providing job opportunities, noting that before joining Naka Trading, many of them were unemployed and had to travel to Port Vila for paperwork related to labour schemes abroad. “Myself and my colleagues appreciate working for a local business owner with whom we share a connection, making it easier to voice our concerns and seek support whenever we need it,” said Solomon.
Manager Tom Robert explained that their goal is to create job opportunities for young people across the Naka tribe, not only in Tanna but also in Port Vila.
By offering employment, they aim to redirect youth from potentially harmful activities such as alcohol, nightlife, and drugs, and help them build positive reputations for themselves and their communities.
This new venture has provided jobs for more than 20 young men, primarily from the Naka tribe in Tanna, with one worker from Ambrym. The bricks are sold at Vatu (VT)150 for size 10 and VT180 for size 15. Currently, the company produces bricks in sizes 10 and 15, generating over 1,400 bricks daily.
On Saturdays, the workers gather for kava sessions, where they receive advice and encouragement from their elders and management. Napuat also offers Naka International Labour Services, the agency for sending workers overseas to participate in labour schemes, and is currently preparing its next group of workers for departure.
“Naka Trading’s mission is to create job opportunities and contribute positively to the local community, reflecting a belief in the importance of providing employment for youth in Vanuatu and the people as a whole,” said Napuat.
