Luisa Radovu, a determined single mother of four, has navigated numerous challenges throughout her life, emerging as a resilient provider for her family. After dropping out of school at age 12, she faced significant hardships, including being disowned by her family due to a disagreement during her early motherhood years and experiencing four failed marriages.
Despite these trials, Radovu has built a diverse career. She worked as a housemaid and baker, and pursued maritime studies, earning multiple sailing certificates by funding her own education. In her youth, she gained valuable experience sailing and working at various resorts.
At 55, Radovu runs a canteen business in Wailoku, which she established in 2017 to serve the local community. Additionally, she sells food parcels and pastries at the Suva market when she can.
“I only reached class six in education, but I managed to attend Fiji National University for maritime studies. I signed up and paid for my own fees, graduating with five certificates,” Radovu explained. Her entrepreneurial journey also included time spent as a house girl and working in cafes and restaurants.
Radovu participated in the Start Improve Your Business (SIYB) training offered by the Ministry of Trade, which she credits for revitalizing her business outlook. “Honestly, there were moments when I lost hope in my business; it became overwhelming,” she admitted. “However, the training instilled in me the confidence to progress and improve my business management, including customer service.”
Looking ahead, she aims to expand her venture and dreams of opening a larger shop accessible to her community. Currently, she awaits a government grant from the training program, which she hopes will provide the financial boost needed to elevate her business.