Lavenia Vakadewabuka has been a vendor at the Korovou Market for over 14 years, specializing in selling waka, a traditional drink. Originally from Davetalevu Village in Tailevu, she lives with her husband and two children, while their eldest child resides in Ghana. Lavenia runs her business to support her family while her husband works in agriculture.
Her entrepreneurial journey began long before she got married, motivated by a desire for financial independence. “By selling waka (grog) and pounded kava, I’ve embarked on a path that has not only sustained my household but has also empowered my community,” she noted.
Starting with a modest investment of $300, Lavenia has demonstrated strong commitment and determination. Over the years, she has built solid relationships with her waka suppliers, ensuring consistent product availability and maintaining high-quality offerings.
Her day begins at 5 a.m. and often stretches until 7 or 8 p.m., reflecting her dedication to juggling her business and family responsibilities. “The early hours allow me to prepare my goods, while the late evenings give me the chance to connect with customers and market my products effectively,” she explained. This commitment has helped her meet her family’s financial needs while teaching her the value of hard work and perseverance.
Throughout her business journey, Lavenia has encountered various challenges, particularly in managing her finances. She learned the importance of budgeting and tracking expenses. By setting clear financial goals, both short and long-term, she was able to prioritize her spending and shift towards a more strategic approach to her finances.
Lavenia emphasizes the necessity of discipline regarding profits, urging other business owners not to squander their earnings on unnecessary purchases. She advises small business owners in the food sector to prepare meals at home to avoid spending business profits on daily meals. “I discourage buying food and snacks at the market as it consumes a lot of money. I suggest we bring our lunch and breakfast from home,” she remarked.
Convinced that women can achieve their goals, Lavenia asserted, “Anyone can do anything, and for women, we are often told to stay home and care for the household – but that doesn’t have to limit what we can accomplish in life.”