In today’s dynamic professional landscape, effective leadership has become a cornerstone of organisational success.

At the heart of this transformation in Fiji is Ashaana Lata, Assistant Instructor in Leadership and Management at the National Training and Productivity Centre under the Fiji National University. Through her work, she is shaping leaders who are not only skilled, but purposeful and people focused.

Driven by a passion for developing others, Ashaana’s journey into leadership training was a natural progression.

“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 explains.

This belief continues to underpin her approach, as she works to build confident leaders capable of driving meaningful change.

With six years at FNU and nearly a year with NTPC’s training team, Ashaana describes her journey as both enriching and eye-opening.

“Stepping into the role of a Leadership and Management Trainer has provided me with significant exposure,” she says.

“It has allowed me to engage with diverse participants, understand real workplace challenges, and deliver impactful training programmes.”

Her expertise spans strategic leadership, organisational development, and women’s empowerment, areas she believes are essential for sustainable growth. At the centre of her work is a commitment to uplifting women in leadership.

“I am passionate about empowering women, equipping them with the confidence, capability, and leadership readiness to step forward and lead with purpose,” she notes.

Ashaana delivers a wide range of programmes covering leadership, emotional intelligence, communication, and team effectiveness. What makes these programmes stand out is their strong practical focus and relevance to the local context.

“We deliver training that is grounded in real-world examples and practical, hands-on activities,” she explains.

“By incorporating the Fijian context, participants can easily relate to the content and apply it in their daily work environments.”

The true impact of her work is reflected in the transformation of her participants. She recalls a particularly meaningful experience working with a group of women facing workplace challenges.

“It was truly rewarding to see the positive transformation not only through improved performance, but also through the confidence they developed,” she shares.

One moment stood out: “A participant gained the confidence to engage with her superior and address underlying workplace issues something she had previously struggled with.”

Her training extends across both public and private sectors. These experiences have broadened her understanding of different organisational needs.

“Working across sectors has enabled me to tailor training to suit different environments, ensuring it remains practical, relevant, and impactful,” she says.

For Ashaana, success is not measured solely by feedback forms, but by real change. “I measure the success of my training through both participant feedback and observable changes in workplace behaviour,” she explains.

“Ultimately, success is reflected in the transformation of participants, how they think, lead, and perform after the training.”

Beyond individual growth, she sees her work as contributing to Fiji’s national development.

“Leadership and management training equips individuals to become more confident, capable, and productive leaders,” she says.

“By investing in people, we are building a stronger, more capable workforce and contributing to a more inclusive, productive, and resilient Fiji.”

Currently advancing her academic research on women-led organisations, Ashaana continues to expand her impact both in practice and scholarship. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to learning, empowerment, and transformation.