Salote Waqairatu Waqainabete, co-owner and managing director of Landscaping Solutions Fiji (LSF), spoke at an event organized by the Reserve Bank of Fiji earlier this month to honor International Women’s Day 2025. Her story reflects a significant moment in the journey towards women’s financial inclusion in Fiji and highlights the role of women in leadership within areas traditionally dominated by men.
Founded in 2017 by Ms. Waqainabete, LSF has emerged as a leader in sustainable landscaping services throughout Fiji, focusing on environmentally friendly practices. Beginning with a modest savings of $1,000 and a personal vehicle, Ms. Waqainabete and her husband faced numerous obstacles, particularly in securing financing in a male-dominated industry. Ultimately, they overcame these challenges with support from the Fiji Development Bank, which provided the crucial funding needed to launch their business.
Ms. Waqainabete noted the importance of available resources, learning experiences and community support in her success. Through participation in capacity-building programs like the Fiji Enterprise Engine and the Global Green Growth Institute, LSF has grown substantially, creating eco-friendly products and earning the loyalty of over 1,000 customers. Creating products such as chemical-free compost, LSF also caters to a clientele composed significantly of women, particularly those engaged as florists.
Her experience and inspiration resonate with the ongoing conversations around women’s empowerment in economic sectors, similar to discussions highlighted by Caroline Waqabaca, a manager at the Reserve Bank of Fiji, during the International Women’s Day celebrations. They underscore the economic benefits of investing in women-led enterprises and the need for collaborative efforts to enhance financial inclusion.
With cash flow and market navigation still posing challenges for LSF, Ms. Waqainabete remains determined to continue overcoming these hurdles, drawing motivation from the relationships she has built with her team and partner organizations. She encourages other women aspiring to enter the entrepreneurial field to leverage their existing resources and networks, urging them that “success isn’t about luck; it’s about resilience and continual learning.”
The story of LSF and Ms. Waqainabete is a strong reminder that empowered women hold the potential to drive sustainable economic growth and foster community-resilient initiatives. As Ms. Waqainabete continues her journey, she aims to pave the way for future generations of women in agribusiness, believing that through mentorship and support, they can achieve significant impacts in their communities.
As Fiji celebrates the achievements of women, Ms. Waqainabete’s narrative serves as a hopeful illustration of determination and empowerment, emphasizing the ongoing need for inclusive practices within financial institutions and beyond.
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