Asena Naiwase, a resilient single mother from Delaitokatoka, Kalabu, has triumphed over life’s challenges. At 60 years old, she remains determined to provide for her three adult children, who have all established their own families and careers. Despite their independence, Asena continues to work hard, selling perfumes and handcrafted jewellery on the streets of Suva.
Her passion for creating jewelry began five years ago as a hobby. Once she recognized her talent, she turned it into a source of income. “This became one of my favorite hobbies, besides meeting people, helping the needy, and baking,” Asena shared. Initially, she sold vegetables, but with encouragement from her younger daughter, she ventured into jewellery making. Her daughter, who honed her skills through DIY videos on social media, taught Asena how to create earrings and necklaces.
Asena first started her small business by selling perfumes, inspired by scents her son-in-law brought back from Iraq. Gradually, she expanded her offerings to include handmade jewellery, responding to customer demand. “With my daughter’s help, I buy raw materials and create the jewellery myself,” she explained.
Asena finds joy in her work, as it empowers her financially and allows her to meet new people every day. “I enjoy my job because I get to make many friends and there’s less stress. I can come and go as I please since I have no boss,” she noted.
Her message to single mothers is to actively seek ways to succeed. “Staying home won’t help. You need to strive to become self-sufficient and not rely on others.”