A local entrepreneur has turned to crafting handmade jewelry as a source of income amidst challenging circumstances. Today, the opportunity for creating unique products has significantly increased due to the power of handwork.
It is essential to explore various opportunities and discover the potential that lies in our skills and creativity. This is illustrated by Iowana Salusalu, a woman actively running her handmade jewelry business, Wananavu Earrings.
Hailing from Qelekuro, Tailevu, she manages her business alongside her six children. As one travels down the highway near Natovi by the waterfront, one can spot the location where this dedicated woman operates her enterprise.
For the past 20 years, she has worked at local hotels, including Shangri-La, and when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, she decided to start her own business from home. She officially launched her venture in 2019, which she monitors closely, noting that it is more beneficial to operate her business from her home while being able to manage various aspects of it.
She sources materials primarily from Vatulele Island and crafts earrings, necklaces, and other items. Currently, her business is also being developed with the help of one of her daughters, demonstrating significant growth and careful planning to ensure the family thrives.
Many locals enjoy visiting her store to admire the beautiful products on sale. “If we can earn as little as $2 a day, that’s a big deal for us, and we can accumulate a lot over a week,” she expressed.
Iowana frequently receives substantial orders from a local company called Tappos, as well as from American customers who are particularly fond of her offerings.
At present, women from various villages in Tailevu are eager to participate in workshops to learn about small business operations, as they seek to understand how to successfully run similar ventures.
Starting from humble beginnings, she now creates earrings, necklaces, and other handmade products. “If we strive to earn from our craft, we will see a consistent flow of income from our efforts,” Iowana noted.
Her product prices range from $2 for unique items to $55 for special sets including earrings and necklaces. On any given day, her earnings can range between $200 and $400.
The achievements she has garnered are a significant boost to her business, and she hopes her children will benefit from this experience as they continue their education.
She emphasizes the importance of actively working in her business and the need to remain grounded and steadfast. “We will continue to lead forward and not look back,” she stated, highlighting the potential for growth in their daily lives.