World MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises) Day was observed on June 27th, aimed at highlighting the essential role MSMEs play in fostering innovation, creating jobs, and promoting sustainability. This year’s theme, “Small Business, Big Change,” inspired members of the Building at Sunset community to share their personal journeys into entrepreneurship.
Fina Bakani Fisher, the owner of Comfy Stays, explained that her short-term rental business started from a desire to spend more time at home with her children while contributing to the family income. As her business evolved, her focus shifted towards achieving financial freedom. With properties listed in Laucala Beach Estate and Pacific Harbour, she looks forward to growing her business with an upcoming website launch.
Sonam Nair, managing director of Total Hygiene Solutions, shared that her cleaning business began during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Motivated by personal goals and the need for cleaning services during the pandemic, Sonam saw an opportunity and acted on it. Her business currently serves the Suva-Nausori corridor, with plans for future expansion, driven by her passion for entrepreneurship and success stories of other women in business.
Veniana Ravesi, founder of Ravesi’s Kinetic Fitness, discovered her passion for fitness in high school. This led her to create a space dedicated to health and wellness, inspired by her journey in fitness that emphasized not just physical strength, but also confidence and resilience. With over a decade of experience and multiple certifications, she aims to help others improve their quality of life through fitness.
Kelera Lomaloma Mataika, founder of Atelier 153, an architectural design firm, expressed her commitment to sustainability and innovation in construction. She founded the Innovation in Construction Hub to combine various skills and expertise within the local construction industry, focusing on developing new products and solutions to address Fiji’s infrastructural challenges.
By: Shenal Harakh
Shenal Harakh is the founder of her software development agency, which builds tech products for startup clients globally. Based in Fiji, she conducts workshops aimed at digitally upskilling communities.