Loraini Bula, a 58-year-old entrepreneur from Nasolo in Ba, exemplifies how determination and cultural pride can uplift both personal and community success. A devoted mother to five grown daughters, Ms. Bula has balanced her passion for entrepreneurship with family life for many years.
Operating her business, Loraini’s Creations, Ms. Bula specializes in hand-printed sarongs that beautifully represent Fijian and Pacific Island culture. Beyond these unique garments, her enterprise has expanded to include a range of value-added products such as scented soaps, body oils, and a variety of plants and flowers through her nursery. By utilizing locally sourced, natural ingredients, she underscores her commitment to preserving Fiji’s rich natural beauty.
A pivotal moment in Ms. Bula’s entrepreneurial journey was her participation in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program initiated by the US Embassy in Fiji. This seven-month program, which she began in March 2024, equipped her with crucial knowledge in areas such as pricing and marketing. As a result, she has gained newfound confidence in determining the value of her products, allowing her to balance affordability for customers with a profitable business model.
Reflecting on her progress, Ms. Bula acknowledged how her approach to pricing had shifted dramatically. “I used to just set prices randomly, not realizing the impact it would have on my business,” she said. Now, she embraces the importance of customer satisfaction and market standards in pricing her creations.
Ms. Bula’s journey in entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in her desire to support her family. Looking back at her early days of hand-printing sarongs to provide for her children, she takes pride in the educational achievements of her daughters, two of whom are now doctors, a testament to her hard work and sacrifices.
With plans to continue expanding her product line to cater to growing customer demand, Ms. Bula is optimistic about the future. She credits the AWE program with empowering her to navigate the challenges of business ownership, from financial management to superior customer service.
Her story serves as a beacon of inspiration 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 tale illustrates the profound impact that education, community support, and self-belief can have, transforming not just a business but an entire community. Her continued pursuit of success embodies the spirit that with hard work and the right resources, women can truly make a difference in their lives and the lives of those around them.
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