While some students spend their evenings revising notes or relaxing after classes, James Lini Bage spends his nights holding a pair of clippers — cutting hair at a local barbershop in Port Vila to help support himself through school.

James, who hails from North Pentecost, is currently studying for a Certificate IV in Financial Accounting at the Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT). Last year, he completed a course in Business Administration, and once he completes his practicals this year, he hopes to graduate with both qualifications.

“The course inspires me because I want to help my family, and my community in financial matters,” James said.

Despite a busy routine, James recently found himself representing his school at the first-ever Vanuatu National Skills Competition, which opened on 15th October in Port Vila. He is one of only 16 students from his class selected to compete in the Certificate IV Financial Accounting category. The competition brings together talented students from across the country to showcase their technical and vocational skills, with top performers set to represent Vanuatu at the World Skills Competition in Australia.

James’s journey to the competition, however, was unexpected.

“When our teacher talked about the competition, I first declined to join,” he recalled. “But on Monday, when it started, I found out my name was registered. I was nervous because I didn’t prepare — but I decided to give it my best.”

The competition tasks students with real-world exercises in budgeting, accounting transactions, and using software like MYOB to manage company finances.

Even without preparation, James felt confident he performed well. “I believe I did good, even though I didn’t expect to compete,” he said with a smile.

But James’s journey is far from easy. Each morning, he attends classes from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Then, he walks to Man’s Barbershop in Korman, where he works from 4 p.m. until closing time at 6 p.m. After returning home by 7 p.m., he still finds time to complete assignments — sometimes staying up past 11 p.m. to submit them before midnight.

“It’s hard to balance work and study,” James admitted. “But time management is important if you want to do well in both.”

Financially, James is supported by his older brother, who works in Australia under the RSE program. His brother pays for his rent, tuition, and basic needs — while James uses his barbering income to cover food and personal expenses.

“My parents are in Pentecost. My father passed away, and my mother still lives there,” James shared softly. “So my brother’s support means everything to me.”

Looking ahead, James hopes to gain work experience in an accounting firm and eventually open his own business.

“In the future, life will get harder, so I need to continue studying and learn more,” he said. “Once I have an income and enough knowledge, I’ll start my own business.”

He’s also grateful for the opportunities that have come his way — especially his job at the barbershop, which he believes was no coincidence.

“God is good. He made it possible for me to work and learn new skills while studying. I thank Him, and I thank the people who gave me the chance to work,” he said.

James’s message to other young Ni-Vanuatu is simple but powerful:

“Don’t look down on yourself. Believe in yourself and move forward with your journey — it will help you in the future.”

The Vanuatu National Skills Competition continues this week at VIT, featuring fields such as Food and Beverage, Cookery, Joinery, Plumbing, Electrical, IT, and Automotive. The event will conclude tomorrow Friday, 17th October, with an awards ceremony for the winners.