Lavenia Vakadewabuka has been a fixture at the Korovou Market, selling waka for over 14 years. Hailing from Davetalevu Village in Tailevu, she resides with her husband and two children, while their eldest child is currently living in Ghana. Through her business, she supports her family as her husband focuses on farming.
Her entrepreneurial journey began before her marriage, fueled by her desire for self-sufficiency and 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 shared. Starting with a modest investment of $300, Lavenia has shown remarkable commitment and determination over the years.
She has fostered strong relationships with her waka suppliers, which ensures a consistent supply that meets customer demand. This strategic approach has solidified her reputation as a reliable vendor and improved the quality of her offerings.
Lavenia’s daily routine begins at dawn, around 5 AM, and extends into the evening until 7 or 8 PM. Her rigorous schedule is a testament to her dedication to her business and the effort she puts into supporting her family. “The early hours allow me to prepare my goods, while late evenings give me time to engage with customers and market my products effectively. This commitment has not only secured my family’s financial needs but has also deepened my understanding of the value of hard work and perseverance,” she noted.
Throughout her venture, Lavenia has encountered various challenges, one of the most significant being effective money management. She realized the importance of budgeting and tracking her expenses early on. By setting clear short-term and long-term financial goals, she learned to prioritize her spending, overcoming her initial tendency to overspend.
Lavenia stresses the necessity of maintaining discipline with profits and advises fellow business owners against unnecessary expenditures. Additionally, she encourages small business owners, particularly in the food industry, to prepare meals at home to save on expenses. She shared that buying food while at the market had become a common practice for her but believes it detracts from business profits. “I discourage buying food and snacks here at the market as it consumes a lot of money. I suggest we bring our lunch and breakfast from home,” she advised.
Lavenia firmly believes that women can achieve anything if they aspire to succeed. “Anyone can do anything, and for women, even though we are often told to stay home and manage the household, that shouldn’t limit our aspirations,” she affirmed.