By AZARIA FAREEN
SHELVIN Permal has been running Rey’s Hair Dressing & Beauty Salon for the past eight years
and notes it to be something that comes naturally to him.
“I was thinking of expanding my business and a friend told me about the Concessional Loan Package offered by the Government so I took advantage of the opportunity and applied,” Mr Permal said.
“I didn’t have much cash flow so when I received the $4,000 as loan, it helped a lot. I used the money to expand my salon by buying chairs, making cabinets, installing mirrors, installed an air-conditioner and paid off my staff.”
“This was timely financial support and I would like to thank the government for assisting me when I needed help the most,” he added.
Located at Yatu Lau Arcade in Suva, the salon receives people from all walks of life who are visiting Suva.
Mr Permal said that he got the idea of starting his own business by looking at a few hair salons and the processes of running that business.
“I have studied up to Form 6 (now Year 12) and by profession I am an electrician. My father used to look after the salon business but he passed away last year in December so I had to take over the business,” he relayed.
“During COVID-19 my business was closed but I did not lay off any staff,” Mr Permal highlighted.
“I would also like to advise the small business owners to take advantage of this opportunity and seek financial assistance from the Government.”
“This would make it easy for them to open up a business or grow it to its full potential,” he added.