In the coastal village of Volivoli, Rakiraki, Swashtika Sristy Mala stands out as a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit and community empowerment in Fiji. As the director of Volivoli Seafoods and Farm Supplies, she has established a remarkable women-led business that connects local fishermen and farmers with significant buyers nationwide.
What commenced in a small shed has evolved into a successful enterprise that delivers fresh and frozen seafood to a range of clients, including resorts, hospitals, and local families. The portfolio of Volivoli Seafoods showcases a dedication to quality and sustainability, offering vacuum-packed varieties of walu, mahimahi, snapper, tuna, octopus, lobster, as well as locally cultivated cassava, dalo leaves, and limes.
Mala explains, “The ocean and the land sustain us. Our mission is to honor that by building a supply chain that is sustainable, fair, and community-driven.” Her journey began from recognizing the unmet needs of local producers in Ra, where many dedicated farmers and fishermen struggled to secure fair pricing.
Determined to bridge this gap, Mala’s initiative focused on removing middlemen, thus enabling producers to receive direct market access and reducing waste. Currently, her enterprise employs ten individuals, including seven women and one transgender employee, whom she regards as vital to the company’s heartbeat.
Mala emphasizes, “We believe in giving everyone a fair chance. Our staff aren’t just employees — they are family.” Her commitment to professional growth and empowerment mirrors the experiences seen in stories across Fiji, where local female entrepreneurs serve as role models and foster environments of support and innovation.
With backing from a loan from the Fiji Development Bank, Volivoli Seafoods is in the process of constructing a modern processing and freezer facility that adheres to hygiene and export standards, marking a significant milestone in its growth trajectory. This advancement will boost production and assist in meeting the demands of both domestic and international clients.
Mala’s vision extends beyond the realms of business; she aspires to transform Volivoli into a multifunctional destination that integrates seafood processing with marine tourism and community recreation. “We want Volivoli to be a place where locals and visitors come together,” she states, envisioning amenities like fishing charters, snorkeling excursions, and family-friendly facilities, including picnic areas and a children’s play zone.
Aiming to enrich the community experience in Ra, where options for family engagement are limited, Mali envisions creating spaces where connection and education thrive. Despite facing challenges such as rising fuel costs and unpredictable weather, her resolve remains steadfast. “Every day is a learning curve,” she notes, but the mission to uplift women and local producers drives her forward.
As the new facility approaches completion, Mala reflects on the broader implications of her dream: “Our goal is not just to build a business, but to build a better community.” Her aspirations resonate with a growing narrative in Fiji, where women-led initiatives lead to sustainable development and societal change.
Mala’s inspiring journey serves as a testament to the power of innovation and community, illustrating that substantial progress can stem from a single heart dedicated to building a brighter future for all. From humble beginnings to expansive dreams, Swashtika Sristy Mala exemplifies how sustainable growth and community development can thrive hand-in-hand.
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