Being able to cross path with a mother of three and business entrepreneur was inspirational because the drive and energy she has to use all the opportunities provided to carve out a better life for her children.
This is inspirational story of 39-year-old Alaseini Lewabau of Savusavu, who for the first time was given the opportunity to display her hand-crafted pearl necklaces, rings and bracelets at the 2019 National Women’s expo held in Suva recently.
Mrs Lewabau shared her struggles as young person with a family and how having to juggle work with motherhood was not an easy task for a mother of three.
“Being talented is one thing and having responsibilities is another and there needs to be an earnest commitment in fulfilling both roles.”
“My passion for business began at the age of 25, I used to sell my handicraft to tourist on cruise ships and tourists visiting Savusavu and on Tuesdays we have our market days at the hotels. So this where I earned the little revenue to begin with.”
Observing her handwork materialize makes one marvel as to how this woman has the patience and creativity to be able to put together a lovely piece of art.
Mrs Lewabau recalls that not much was earned during the initial phase of the business with whatever income generated used up for essentials like buying food and meeting the basic necessities for the family.
“It was hard because I was running on a loss, whatever I earned was used to buy things for my children and also replacing the materials I used for my handicraft. So in other words I was not saving so that is when I decided to seek assistance.”
“Just last year, I was invited to be part of the Savusavu Women’s Expo and I was lucky to be chosen to take part in this year’s National Women’s Expo. Nothing comes easy and I believe this is stepping stone to grow my business locally and then maybe sell internationally.”
Being a mother and venturing into a demanding market is a challenge but Mrs Lewabau sees this through her love for handicraft and ensuring that whatever she does is for the benefit for her family and most importantly providing a better life for her children.
“We never realize our own talent but once I started it has has been a sweet journey for me, not only have I learnt the art but most importantly I’m marketing my handicraft with other women that have been in the business for years and have earned a name for themselves.”
“It’s a challenge but what women need to understand is that in this day and age gone are the days where women are only at home, we need to rise up and earn that dignity in society. We need to challenge ourselves to be more productive and also contribute to the welfare of our families.”
Mrs Lewabau was part of the 26 local entrepreneurs that received their licenses from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism during the expo in Suva.
“Receiving this license allows me as an individual entrepreneur to earn money but also to save a lot and even if God permits that I will one day secure a market internationally and brand name to my products.”
She was able to earn more than what she anticipated and she thanked the Government for the opportunity to showcase her work for the three days.
Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Local Government, Housing and Community Development Premila Kumar commended the local women and men entrepreneur for their sheer determination to deliver quality products that led to many of them carrying the “Fijian Crafted” brand during the expo.
“The Fijian Made logo easily distinguishes Fijian made products and services from those that are imported into the country.”
“When you purchase a Fijian made product or service, you are helping to create jobs and promote growth. Your purchases ensure that the money spent in Fiji stays in Fiji. You are reinvesting in the economy and the community.”
The Fijian Made-Buy Fijian Campaign began in 2011. The purpose was to encourage consumers and organizations to buy Fijian Made goods and services. The Campaign provides a branding platform through labels, such as, Fijian Organic, Fijian Crafted, Fijian Packed, Fijian Made, Fijian Product, Fijian Grown, Fijian Sewn, Fijian Assembled, and Fijian Designed.
Minister Kumar said since 2016, at the National Women’s Expo alone, 176 women have been included in the Fijian Made family.
“This year, we are adding another 76 to this list of successful entrepreneurs. Out of the 76 new license holders, 54 will be awarded the Fijian Crafted Emblem, nine Fijian Sewn Emblem, seven Fijian Crafted and Sewn Emblem, three Fijian Crafted and Designed Emblem, two Fijian Designed and one Fijian Crafted/Made and Designed Emblem. This shows the range of skills and knowledge you all have. I congratulate each and every one of you.”
Minister Kumar adds for those receiving their license at the expo, the Fijian Crafted emblem would mean more exposure for their products.
“There is possibility that your products can be presented in meetings and functions. This includes expos or symposiums organized and coordinated by the Government whether it is nationally, regionally or internationally.”