A 58-year-old entrepreneur from Nasolo in Ba, Loraini Bula, exemplifies the transformative power of determination, cultural pride, and community support in her entrepreneurial journey. As a devoted mother to five grown daughters, Bula has effectively balanced her family commitments with her business aspirations through her venture, Loraini’s Creations.
Her business specializes in hand-printed sarongs that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Fiji and the Pacific Islands. Recently, Bula has diversified her offerings, adding scented soaps, body oils, and a variety of plants cultivated in her nursery. By using locally sourced, natural ingredients, she not only highlights her artistic talent but also demonstrates a dedication to maintaining Fiji’s rich natural beauty.
A pivotal moment in Bula’s journey occurred when she joined the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program organized by the US Embassy in Fiji, which began in March of this year. This seven-month program equipped her with vital skills in pricing, marketing, and understanding her products’ true value. Reflecting on her previous pricing strategies, Bula shared, “I used to just set prices randomly, not realizing the impact it would have on my business. Now, I understand the importance of pricing, customer satisfaction, and meeting market standards.”
Bula takes great pride in her journey as she recalls the sacrifices made to provide for her family, including the success of two of her daughters who have become doctors. Looking ahead, she is enthusiastic about expanding her product line to meet the growing customer demand and attributes her newfound confidence and business acumen to the AWE program.
Her story serves as an inspiration to other women in her community, encouraging them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. “Don’t be afraid to start your own business,” she advises. “We don’t need to depend on others; we can provide for ourselves. If you have the drive, go for it.”
Loraini Bula’s narrative is not just a tale of personal success; it is a testament to how education, community support, and resilience can foster transformative change. As she continues to grow her enterprise, Bula reinforces the idea that with hard work and the right resources, women can build successful businesses that create a lasting impact in their lives and their communities.
In summary, Bula’s journey highlights the potential for individual entrepreneurship to uplift entire communities, bringing a hopeful message that resonates with many aspiring businesswomen. Her commitment to craft, culture, and community reflects the positive possibilities that lie ahead for those willing to pursue their dreams.
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