A late-night idea is blossoming into one of Fiji’s most exciting ventures: the country’s first perfume factory, established by 36-year-old Rupeni Rokoratu. The founder of Perfume Fiji, a luxury fragrance brand, aims to inspire a new generation of iTaukei entrepreneurs. Mr. Rokoratu, who previously worked as a high school industrial arts teacher, dedicated nearly a decade to bringing his vision to fruition.
At a recent Business and Investment Ready Support Grant handover, Mr. Rokoratu shared his journey of perseverance and the challenges he faced in perfecting his product. “For many years, I stayed up late, researching, testing, failing, trying to perfect everything,” he explained. His project has garnered support from the government, as he was among 24 recipients of a share from a $335,000 grant.
The factory, located in Labasa, ensures quality by sourcing 20 to 30 percent of its ingredients locally, while importing the remainder to create high-end perfumes. Bottles will retail for $99 each, with an office already operational at the Arts Village in Pacific Harbour. Mr. Rokoratu left his teaching career in August last year to pursue this venture full time, investing between $50,000 and $70,000 into the business with the help of a partner.
He has ambitious plans that extend beyond just perfumes, as he has identified two additional products in what he views as untouched markets in Fiji, requiring an investment of up to half a million dollars. His vision is not just personal success; he aims to demonstrate that iTaukei people can thrive in business. “We are resource owners; we just need to shift our mind-set,” he asserted.
Furthermore, the spirit of entrepreneurship echoed in similar stories, such as Viliame Taufa, a 26-year-old who recently established a clothing line in Lekutu, promoting local production and aspiring to empower his community through skills training. These narratives celebrate resilience and innovation among young Fijians.
In the face of challenges, Mr. Rokoratu’s message is clear: “If I can do this, so can you.” His journey serves as a testament to determination, underscoring the potential for growth and success in Fiji’s emerging entrepreneurial landscape. Through efforts like these, local businesses are not only promoting economic development but also fostering community empowerment and inspiring future generations.
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