After two decades in the tourism sector, Meli Rokotakala discovered his true passion amid a global crisis. In 2021, as the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the world, Meli left his job in Nadi and returned to his hometown of Nabalebale Village in Cakaudrove. This period of uncertainty prompted Meli to reflect on the talents he possessed.
While relaxing in his backyard garden, he developed a fascination for the vibrant beauty of flowers. This interest in horticulture led him to create house decorations, which soon evolved into a full-fledged business. Drawing from his past experiences with South Sea Cruises, Fiji Club, and Tuitai Adventure Cruises, Meli established Meli’s Artfeast Investment.
Now a sought-after event decorator in Savusavu and Labasa, Meli brings his creative flair to various occasions, including birthdays, funerals, weddings, corporate events, and religious celebrations. A perfectionist at heart, he carefully selects flowers from his garden, ensuring that every arrangement showcases his design sensibility.
Meli’s entrepreneurial journey also included opening a savings account at the BSP branch in Savusavu, marking a significant step towards financial independence. When he learned about BSP’s three-day workshop in collaboration with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) under the THRIVE programme, he was eager to participate and enhance his business acumen.
THRIVE, which stands for “Together, Helping to build a Resilient, Inclusive, and Vibrant Economy,” is aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the skills needed to successfully manage their businesses. Meli recognized that success is not only about passion but also about understanding financial management.
He reflected, “Not everyone is destined for blue- or white-collar jobs. Some young people have the potential to be successful entrepreneurs, and it’s crucial that they receive the support they need to grow.” As the oldest of four siblings and a former Savusavu Secondary School student, Meli stressed the importance of pursuing fulfilling work.
“Many people feel trapped in their jobs but continue for their families’ sake. It’s essential to identify what truly makes you happy and chase it,” he said. Meli expressed his gratitude to BSP and ABV for the transformative workshop experience in Labasa and encouraged young individuals to discover their unique talents, urging them to give back to their communities rather than conforming to societal expectations.
The Fiji THRIVE programme originated as the “Your Enterprise Scheme” (YES) at BSP headquarters in Papua New Guinea in 2019. In partnership with ABV, the initiative was created to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in PNG by providing vital knowledge and resources. BSP Fiji adapted and renamed the programme THRIVE to better suit the local market and emphasize its goal of fostering a resilient, inclusive, and vibrant economy.