A 58-year-old entrepreneur from Nasolo in Ba, Loraini Bula, has become a shining example of determination, cultural pride, and community support through her business journey. As a devoted mother to five grown daughters, Ms. Bula has mastered balancing her family responsibilities with her entrepreneurial aspirations through her enterprise, Loraini’s Creations, which specializes in hand-printed sarongs that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Fiji and the Pacific Islands.
In recent years, Ms. Bula has diversified her offerings to include a range of value-added products, such as scented soaps, body oils, and various plants cultivated in her nursery. Her commitment to using locally sourced, natural ingredients not only showcases her artistic talents but also emphasizes her dedication to preserving Fiji’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
A pivotal moment in her entrepreneurial journey occurred when she joined the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program initiated by the US Embassy in Fiji. Starting in March 2024, this seven-month program provided her with essential skills in pricing, marketing, and product value—areas where she previously experienced challenges. Reflecting on her past, Ms. Bula acknowledged, “I used to just set prices randomly, not realizing the impact it would have on my business. Now, I understand the importance of customer satisfaction and aligning with market standards.”
Ms. Bula’s entrepreneurial efforts have not only provided financial support for her family but have also led to significant achievements for her daughters, two of whom have become doctors—testaments to her hard work and sacrifices. Looking to the future, she is excited about expanding her product line to meet the increasing demands of her customers and credits the AWE program for empowering her with the confidence and skills necessary to navigate her business effectively.
Her journey serves as an inspiring blueprint for 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 story illustrates the profound impact that education, community support, and resilience can have on individuals and entire communities. As she continues to grow her enterprise, her hopeful message reinforces the idea that with hard work and the right resources, women can indeed build successful businesses that create meaningful changes in their lives and those of others.
In summary, Ms. Bula’s inspirational narrative highlights not only her personal success but the potential for entrepreneurship to uplift entire communities, making a positive and motivating impact for aspiring women business owners everywhere.
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