A 58-year-old entrepreneur from Nasolo in Ba, Loraini Bula, is an inspiring figure who exemplifies determination, cultural pride, and the invaluable support of education in entrepreneurship. As a devoted mother of five adult daughters, she has adeptly balanced her business aspirations with family life through her enterprise, Loraini’s Creations.
Specializing in hand-printed sarongs that celebrate the rich traditions of Fijian and Pacific Island cultures, Loraini has expanded her business to include a variety of value-added products. These offerings now encompass scented soaps, body oils, and a range of plants and flowers grown in her nursery, all made with locally sourced, natural ingredients.
A significant turning point in her journey came from her participation in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), a program run by the US Embassy in Fiji. This seven-month program, which she began in March 2024, provided her with essential skills in pricing and marketing, significantly enhancing her understanding of the true value of her products. “I used to just set prices randomly, not realizing the impact it would have on my business. Now, I understand the importance of pricing, customer satisfaction, and meeting market standards,” she reflected.
Through her business, Loraini has not only supported her family but has also instilled pride and ambition in her daughters, two of whom are now pursuing careers in medicine. Looking to the future, she is excited about expanding her product line to meet rising customer demand and credits the AWE program for empowering her to successfully navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.
Her story resonates as a beacon of hope and encouragement for other women in her community, emphasizing that with perseverance and the right resources, anyone can start their own business and thrive. “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,” she advises.
Loraini Bula’s journey illustrates how education, community support, and self-belief can transform lives and uplift communities. As she continues to grow her enterprise, her narrative serves as a hopeful reminder that hard work and commitment can enable women to create lasting change not just for themselves but for those around them.
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