Two sisters from Matuku in Lau have emerged victorious in the Sustainability category at the 2026 Fiji Innovation Hub Hackathon, securing a $3,000 prize for their innovative business concept. Their venture, Blue Vault, effectively merges aquaculture with sustainable tourism, showcasing their commitment to environmental preservation.
Amelia East, one of the co-founders, recounted how the business was born during her time in a traditional nine-to-five job. The operation is managed by the sisters, with support from their parents who oversee the land and sea resources they aim to protect. Blue Vault specializes in integrated aquaculture farming, aiming to restore marine life that has been adversely impacted by cyclones and changing environmental conditions.
The recent win at the hackathon is expected to enhance the visibility of their initiative and assist in securing funding for their ambitious $1 million expansion plan. East emphasized the importance of iTaukei resource owners harnessing their skills and resources to generate economic benefits within their communities.
The hackathon spanned two days and featured 15 participants divided across categories like Fintech, Ease of Doing Business, and Sustainability. Each team was tasked with presenting innovative solutions to pressing real-world challenges. The Fiji Innovation Hub is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and innovation, collaborating with both local and international partners to stimulate progress in these areas.
This achievement not only highlights the ingenuity of the sisters but also exemplifies the potential for sustainable practices to drive economic growth, particularly in vulnerable communities.
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