With his family’s financial needs in mind, Zahid Ali Rafiq, saw an opportunity to use his mechanical skills to start a business.
He believed repairing engines and fitting spare parts would be a smart way to earn extra income, Zahid established Zahid’s Engine Repairs in 2019.
Zahid’s business specializes in repairing chainsaws, brush cutters, borehole pumps, electrical tools, mechanical works, welding, pump installations, and offers basic mechanical tools and parts for sale.
His engine repair shop is located on Main Street in Labasa town, opposite Saint Mary’s School. The business currently has one employee, with additional assistance from his brother.
“With 18 years of experience in the mechanical field, I decided to start my own business to improve my family’s financial situation,” he said.
Zahid is the sole provider for his family, supporting his grandfather, parents, and three children.
“There are always ups and downs in my business but, its my strong will power is what keeps me going,” he said.
Zahid came to know Business Link Pacific (BLP) and Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) through one of its Business Advisory Service Providers (BASPs) Dharmendra Singh & Company.
BLP/BAF assisted in preparing the financial statements for his business for the years ending 2021 and 2022 and filing the tax return.
“I am grateful to BLP/BAF for subsidizing the preparation of the financial statement for my business.
“The money I would have spent on preparing the financial statement for my business has instead been used to purchase tools and spare parts,” he said.
Zahid noted that purchasing those tools has greatly benefited his business growth.
“If BLP/BAF hadn’t provided the subsidies, I wouldn’t have been able to acquire the tools and spare parts,” he said.
Throughout this process, Zahid learned the importance of maintaining proper financial records for his business and now manages the daily bookkeeping himself.
He encourages Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to contact BFL/BAF for any assistance they may need for their businesses.
Preparation of financial statements is just one of the services currently provided by advisors through BAF and BLP’s Network. Other business services available range from organizational management, finance, and marketing to legal advice, human resources and technology (https://businesslinkpacific.com/search).
For more information on Business Assistance Fiji, please click the link https://businessassistancefiji.com/ or visit our office at:
Suva
Gound Floor, Vanua Arcade, Vanua House, Victoria Parade in Suva.
Lautoka
15 Tavewa Ave, Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives and Small and Medium Enterprises, Rogorogoivuda House, Lautoka (Opposite RB Patel and above Immigration Office – 2nd Floor).
Labasa
MSME Office, Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Ground Floor, Macuata House, Labasa.
ENDS
