Arieta Navosa, a small business owner, has significantly changed her life by pursuing her passion for handicrafts. At 61, she hails from Namata in Bau Tailevu and is now married into Suvavou Village. For many years, she devoted herself to babysitting until a friend’s suggestion led her to enroll in a business program.
Arieta registered under the Fiji Arts Council and launched her handicraft business at the FNPF Plaza in Suva, coinciding remarkably with her 60th birthday. Her creations include handmade earrings, necklaces, tie-dye fabrics, and an assortment of bags such as laptop, cosmetic, and handbags.
Her weekly earnings fluctuate between $50 and over $200, depending on customer turnout, and she also receives additional orders from overseas. Although her income is modest, Arieta manages to pay her monthly rent of $200 while supporting her family.
Arieta encourages both youth and her peers to believe in themselves, embrace their talents, and recognize that it’s never too late to begin a new venture. She attributes her success to God Almighty.