A 58-year-old entrepreneur from Nasolo in Ba, Loraini Bula, stands as a shining example of determination and cultural pride in her entrepreneurial journey. As a dedicated mother of five grown daughters, she has skillfully balanced her business, Loraini’s Creations, with family life, expanding her offerings to include hand-printed sarongs that deeply reflect Fijian and Pacific Island cultures.
In addition to these vibrant garments, Ms. Bula has broadened her product line to encompass an array of value-added items, such as scented soaps, body oils, and various plants and flowers from her nursery. Her commitment to using locally sourced, natural ingredients not only showcases her artistic talents but also emphasizes her dedication to preserving Fiji’s rich natural heritage.
A pivotal moment in Ms. Bula’s entrepreneurial journey arose when she joined the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program facilitated by the US Embassy in Fiji. This seven-month program, which she began in March of this year, equipped her with essential knowledge in pricing, marketing, and understanding the true value of her products, areas where she previously struggled. Reflecting on her past pricing strategies, she 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’s drive to support her family continues to motivate her entrepreneurial endeavors. Two of her daughters have become doctors, a testament to her sacrifices and unyielding dedication over the years. Looking ahead, she is excited about the expansion of her business and plans to introduce even more products to meet the increasing demands from her customers.
Her story is not just one of personal success; it is also a source of inspiration for other women in her community. Ms. Bula encourages others to take bold steps towards entrepreneurship, stating, “Don’t be afraid to start your own business. We don’t need to depend on others; we can provide for ourselves. If you have the drive, go for it.”
As she continues to grow her enterprise, Ms. Bula exemplifies how community support, education, and resilience can lead to transformative change. Her inspiring journey underscores the message that with hard work and the right resources, women can build successful businesses, creating a lasting impact in their lives and the lives of those around them.
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