Mere Yabakivou, hailing from Nairukuruku Village, has successfully transformed her passion for beekeeping into a flourishing enterprise known as Yabakivou Liquid Gold. After a career in public health and aviation security, she decided to devote herself to bee farming full-time during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on her journey, Yabakivou shared that during the pandemic, she returned home on leave and seized the opportunity to fully immerse herself in beekeeping. Beginning her venture in 2012, she faced challenges such as equipment shortages but cleverly overcame these obstacles with the help of the Agriculture office in Tavua.
“One of the great advantages of beekeeping is that we don’t have to worry about feeding them or providing water. I could check on their health regularly,” she explained. What started as a family hobby soon grew into a burgeoning business as the demand for her honey increased—she now sells 500ml bottles for $13 and 1kg for $20.
In 2023, Yabakivou registered her business and expanded her offerings to include beeswax products. With the assistance of the Fiji Beekeepers Association and the Agriculture Ministry, her dedication and resourcefulness have transformed her hobby into a thriving venture, serving as an inspiration for others to pursue their dreams.
“Don’t look back or let challenges discourage you; trust in God to help you achieve your goals,” she encourages others.
This story exemplifies the remarkable potential of turning a passion into a business, demonstrating resilience and the importance of support from local institutions. It serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, showing that persistence and creativity can lead to success, even in challenging times.
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