A 58-year-old entrepreneur from Nasolo in Ba, Loraini Bula, embodies the transformative power of determination, cultural pride, and community support in her journey as a business owner. As a devoted mother of five grown daughters, Ms. Bula has skillfully balanced her family responsibilities with her entrepreneurial aspirations through her venture, Loraini’s Creations.

Specializing in hand-printed sarongs that celebrate the beauty of Fijian and Pacific Island cultures, Ms. Bula has expanded her business to include a variety of value-added products, such as scented soaps, body oils, and plants cultivated in her nursery. By utilizing locally-sourced, natural ingredients, she not only showcases her artistic talents but also emphasizes her commitment to preserving Fiji’s rich natural heritage.

A pivotal moment in Ms. Bula’s entrepreneurial journey was her participation in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program facilitated by the US Embassy in Fiji, which she began in March 2024. This seven-month program provided her with vital skills in pricing, marketing, and understanding the true value of her products. Reflecting on her previous pricing strategies, Ms. Bula noted, “I used to just set prices randomly, not realizing the impact it would have on my business. Now, I understand the importance of customer satisfaction and market standards.”

Ms. Bula takes immense pride in her journey, particularly in how her hard work has positively impacted her family’s future. Two of her daughters have become doctors, showcasing the sacrifices and effort she has dedicated to providing them with opportunities. Looking forward, she is enthusiastic about further expanding her product line to meet the increasing customer demands.

Her story serves as an inspiring testament for women in her community, encouraging them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. “Don’t be afraid to start your own business,” she advises. “We don’t need to depend on others; we can provide for ourselves. If you have the drive, go for it.”

Loraini Bula’s journey illustrates the profound impact of education, community support, and self-belief in transforming not just businesses but entire communities. As she continues to grow her enterprise, her hopeful narrative reinforces the idea that with hard work and access to the right resources, women can build successful businesses and create meaningful changes in their lives and the lives of those around them.

In summary, Ms. Bula’s story not only highlights her personal success but also emphasizes the potential of entrepreneurship to uplift entire communities, creating a positive and inspiring message for aspiring women business owners everywhere.