Caines Jannif, a company that embodies vision, perseverance, and the rich tradition of photography, recently celebrated an impressive milestone of 120 years in business. The anniversary festivities took place on Monday, February 26, at a dinner held at the Chili House located on Brown Street in Suva.
The event brought together not only current employees but also extended family members, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and deep connections that have been nurtured over the decades. The celebration served as a heartfelt reminder of the remarkable journey that commenced over a century ago.
Founded in 1904 by Fredrick Caines, a passionate photographer, the company began its journey as Caine’s Studios after he acquired the Le Faivre Photographic Studio. It thrived under his leadership and significant contributions from key individuals, including N.A. Khan, who joined in 1912, and his nephew Hannif Akbar, who became involved in 1924, followed by his brother Ben Jannif in 1926. Together, they invigorated the studio, successfully navigating the evolving world of photography with creativity and resilience.
In 1935, due to health reasons, Fredrick Caines entrusted the future of the business to a partnership with his wife, Mrs. Caine, Hannif, and Ben. Over the years, the company faced challenges, including the withdrawal of some partners in 1953. However, it found stability and continued growth with Amina Jannif, Ben’s wife, joining the team. Their legacy was further cemented when Ben Jannif passed the business down to his son, Ikbal Jannif, who played a crucial role in the company’s continuous evolution.
During the anniversary dinner, director Sofia Jannif described the significance of the gathering, noting how their recent history, including the destruction of their Raiwai Factory six years earlier, has made this celebration all the more meaningful. Longtime employee Kelsey Jannif shared her experiences since 1975, reminiscing about the old methods of photo processing and the magical moments that came with traditional photography.
Employee Yangtesh Reddy highlighted the culture at Caines Jannif, where employees are treated as family, cultivating strong loyalty and commitment. This supportive environment has enabled numerous employees to grow within the company, reflecting its dedication to nurturing talent and fostering community spirit.
Caines Jannif has played an integral role in documenting Fiji’s history, capturing significant moments, such as the country’s independence ceremony in 1970. Their ability to provide quality services consistently underscores their essential role in preserving the collective memory of Fiji.
As the company looks toward the future, it carries a legacy that not only shaped the photographic industry but also inspires the next generation to uphold and build upon the standards of excellence and innovation it has established. The story of Caines Jannif, from its humble beginnings to its sterling reputation today, is a testament to its enduring impact and the beauty it has captured over the past 120 years.
This remarkable anniversary serves as a hopeful reminder of the power of perseverance and community, setting a promising tone for the future of Caines Jannif.
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