In today’s fast-changing professional landscape, strong leadership has become essential for organisational success, and Ashaana Lata is helping shape the next generation of leaders in Fiji.
As an assistant instructor in Leadership and Management at the National Training and Productivity Centre under Fiji National University, Ms Lata is passionate about developing leaders who are purposeful, confident and people-focused.
“I have always been interested in understanding how individuals grow into effective leaders, and how the right guidance, skills, and mindset can transform both personal and organisational outcomes,” she said.
Having spent six years at FNU and nearly a year with NTPC’s training team, she described the experience as both enriching and eye-opening.
“Stepping into the role of a Leadership and Management Trainer has provided me with significant exposure,” she said.
“It has allowed me to engage with diverse participants, understand real workplace challenges, and deliver impactful training programmes.”
Her work focuses on strategic leadership, organisational development and women’s empowerment. Supporting women in leadership remains one of her greatest passions.
“I am passionate about empowering women, equipping them with the confidence, capability, and leadership readiness to step forward and lead with purpose,” she said.
Ms Lata delivers programmes covering leadership, emotional intelligence, communication and team effectiveness, using practical activities grounded in the Fijian context.
“We deliver training that is grounded in real-world examples and practical, hands-on activities,” she explained.
For Ms Lata, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing participants grow in confidence. She recalled one participant who gained the courage to approach her superior and address workplace challenges she had previously struggled to discuss.
“It was truly rewarding to see the positive transformation not only through improved performance, but also through the confidence they developed,” she said.
Currently advancing her academic research on women-led organisations, Ms Lata believes leadership training plays a vital role in Fiji’s development.
“By investing in people, we are building a stronger, more capable workforce and contributing to a more inclusive, productive, and resilient Fiji,” she said.
