At the age of 22, Kelevi Stark is making a name for himself in the catering industry with his business, Starks Catering and Events, aided by the Graduate Business Start-Up Grant Scheme. This initiative, part of the Fiji Government’s 2024–2025 National Budget with a substantial allocation of $300,000, is administered by the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) and supported by the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF).
Stark draws inspiration from his mother, who had a food vending business at Suva Market. As a student at the University of the South Pacific, he has developed his catering service, which caters to both personal and corporate events. Stark emphasizes that the benefits extend beyond financial support, highlighting the importance of networking, growth, and building a sustainable future through his entrepreneurial journey.
Reflecting on the changing landscape of entrepreneurship among youth, Stark notes the pride he feels in starting his business at a young age. “Years ago, it was unthinkable for someone my age to run a business. Today, I’m living that dream. I feel honoured and grateful,” he said.
Stark’s achievements resonate with the goals of the Graduate Business Start-Up Grant Scheme, which aims to empower young individuals to pursue their business ambitions and contribute to Fiji’s economic growth. By supporting youth entrepreneurship, the program not only fosters individual success stories like that of Stark but is also seen as an important step toward diversifying the economic landscape and creating more job opportunities within the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) sector.
The success of initiatives like Stark’s illustrates the growing trend in Fiji where young entrepreneurs are encouraged and provided with resources to innovate and thrive. With ongoing support from established organizations, a bright future is on the horizon for aspiring business owners, inspiring the next generation to embrace their entrepreneurial dreams.
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