Husbands and wives can successfully operate a business together, a sentiment embodied by Nilufa Nikhat and Arshad Aftab Ali, who founded Gypsy Globe Salon in September 2024. This couple’s journey highlights not only their commitment to entrepreneurship but also their effort to break stereotypes in their community.
The couple, who relocated from Lautoka to Labasa, faced significant challenges in their pursuit. Nilufa struggled for months to find a job in various salons, encountering difficulties largely due to the cultural perceptions surrounding married women in business. Arshad noted, “In our culture, it’s not easy for married women to get jobs.” Despite these obstacles, Nilufa refused to give up, with Arshad steadfastly supporting her.
Drawing from their shared determination, the couple decided to create a space where Nilufa could flourish professionally—a dream that came to fruition with the opening of their salon. Initially met with difficulties, including a lack of customer base and reputation, they leveraged social media to build awareness. Their opening day video garnered over 70,000 views, which was pivotal in fostering support and drawing customers to their new venture.
As they run Gypsy Globe Salon, Arshad and Nilufa have aspirations to expand their business further. They are currently exploring a larger space in the Charan Jeath Singh Mall and plan to hire additional staff to assist in operations. “Right now, we’re doing everything ourselves—running the salon and managing the business,” said Arshad, expressing their dedication and growth aspirations.
Moreover, they hope their successful partnership serves as a source of inspiration for other entrepreneurs, especially women in Labasa. They emphasize the importance of pursuing one’s dreams and overcoming obstacles, asserting, “We’re proof that with hard work and support from family, anything is possible.”
This story aligns with a growing trend of women and family units in Fiji successfully launching businesses. Similar to other women in entrepreneurial roles, such as Laleena Kumar and Fulori Waqasaqa, Nilufa and Arshad exemplify how dedication and community support can help transform personal ambitions into thriving enterprises.
As small businesses continue to emerge across Fiji, there is hope for increased economic prosperity and empowerment for future generations.
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