Fulori Waqasaqa, a 33-year-old from Namuaimada, Ra, is thriving as an entrepreneur through her handcrafted business based in Bulileka, Labasa. Though she only started her venture last year, it has significantly supported both her and her family.
Fulori attended a higher education school in Nasinu where she participated in a program focused on business development, igniting her passion for entrepreneurship. Despite not having the dream of owning a business early on, she has transformed her aspirations into reality.
Today, she encourages herself to pursue further education to enhance her business knowledge. “I’ve been working hard to build my own business, and it has truly become a dream come true,” she said.
Fulori creates and sells traditional handicrafts and sometimes collaborates with other artisans to enhance her product offerings. The demand for her products is such that she often receives orders from various hotels, including places like Koro Sun, Namela, and Tanoa, as well as from schools and community organizations.
With the festive month upon us, she has observed a notable increase in orders, although some days see fewer requests. Such fluctuations are common in the handcrafted business sector. The pricing for her crafts is quite reasonable, starting at $5 each, allowing a sweet spot for both affordability and quality.
On an average day, Fulori can make around 20 crafts, potentially earning $200 a week. During peak periods, such as celebrations, she may even reach up to $400 in weekly earnings.
Fulori’s success story is not just about her business but also highlights the positive impact it has had on her family. She encourages others with similar skills to harness their talents effectively to create opportunities for themselves, emphasizing the importance of faith and perseverance in their journeys.
Through Fulori’s journey, it becomes clear that supporting local craftsmanship can benefit not just individual entrepreneurs but also contribute to the wider community, showcasing the power of dedication and hard work in achieving one’s dreams.
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