Meli Rokotakala, who dedicated twenty years to the tourism sector, discovered his true passion during the global crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, as the world faced unprecedented challenges, Meli left his job in Nadi and returned to his home in Nabalebale Village, Cakaudrove. This turbulent period prompted him to reflect on his innate talents.
While enjoying the tranquility of his backyard garden, Meli was inspired by the vibrant colors and beauty of flowers. This newfound interest in horticulture led him to create decorative pieces for his home, evolving into a full-scale business. Drawing on his experience with South Sea Cruises, Fiji Club, and Tuitai Adventure Cruises, he founded Meli’s Artfeast Investment.
Meli quickly gained recognition as a prominent event decorator in Savusavu and Labasa. He skillfully enhances various occasions, such as birthdays, funerals, weddings, corporate functions, and religious events. His perfectionist approach ensures he carefully selects flowers from his garden, crafting arrangements that showcase his keen eye for design.
Meli’s entrepreneurial spirit also prompted him to open a savings account at the BSP branch in Savusavu, a significant step towards achieving financial independence.
In his quest to enhance his business acumen, Meli eagerly participated in a three-day workshop facilitated by BSP in partnership with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) under the THRIVE programme. The initiative, which stands for “Together, Helping to build a Resilient, Inclusive, and Vibrant Economy,” is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the skills necessary for effective business management.
Meli acknowledged the necessity of understanding business fundamentals, highlighting that true success lies beyond just passion; it involves navigating the complexities of profit and loss. He noted, “Not everyone is destined for blue- or white-collar jobs. Some young people can become successful entrepreneurs, and it’s crucial they receive the support needed for their growth.”
As the oldest of four siblings and an alumnus of Savusavu Secondary School, Meli underscored the value of pursuing fulfilling work. He stated, “Many people endure jobs they dislike for their families’ sake. It’s essential to identify what genuinely brings you happiness and pursue it.”
Meli expressed sincere gratitude to BSP and ABV for the opportunity to attend the workshop in Labasa, which he found to be a life-changing experience. He encourages young individuals to discover their unique talents and contribute to their communities rather than merely conforming to societal expectations.
The Fiji THRIVE programme, which originated as the “Your Enterprise Scheme” (YES) at BSP’s headquarters in Papua New Guinea in 2019, aims to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). In partnership with ABV, it provides essential resources and knowledge tailored to the local market, exemplifying a commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive economy.