Award-winning entrepreneur Tikosaya Ledua is making significant strides in the upcycling industry in Fiji, aiming to establish the region’s first upcycling hub. Ledua, who won the Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the 2023 FDB National SME Awards held in Suva, views her recognition as a testament to the growth of her business.
As the founder and principal artist of Ledua’s Arts Collection, she specializes in creating art and household items from recycled materials. Following her recent accolade, she is eager to advance her vision of an upcycling hub that focuses on women’s involvement and education in the upcycling field.
Ledua credits her success to divine guidance, participation in MSME training and workshops, the distinctive presentation of her company, and the support of her husband, who helps bring her artistic visions to life. She remarked, “There is a huge market for upcycling that is untapped. I think that is a great advantage for us as we tap into upcycling and similar economies. There is so much to do.”
She emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Women in this initiative to connect government programs with community efforts, particularly for rural women. Ledua is also involved in the Fiji Enterprise Engine accelerator program, designed to help MSMEs expand their business knowledge. She encourages women and women-led businesses to persevere, regardless of challenges.
“If you’re not struggling when you’re hustling, you’re not hustling right,” she explained. “You need to encounter all those struggles because sometimes obstacles can make you want to give up, but you must keep pushing forward. As long as you have that passion and continue to do what you love, aim to be a positive force in your community.”