Payal Prasad is excited to be in charge of her own career. Despite having a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Accounting and Economics, she opts for independence over a conventional office job. The 25-year-old operates a small but expanding kava business from the Suva market.
In August 2021, as a response to the financial challenges posed by the pandemic, Ms. Prasad, who resides on Khalsa Road in Tacirua, established Prasad’s Quality Kava. This decision, although difficult, has been one she has never regretted.
“My family, like many others, faced significant financial challenges due to COVID-19,” Ms. Prasad noted. “Finding a job during such tough times was difficult, even with my degree.” One day, while discussing options with her family, her mother suggested starting her own business.
Though Ms. Prasad’s parents have both passed away, she continues to make strides with support from her brother, who also runs a kava business in Labasa. “He assists me in sourcing supplies,” she said. “We procure kava from Savusavu, Labasa, and Taveuni.”
She has both regular and casual customers, and to stand out in the competitive market, Ms. Prasad leverages social media for product promotion and sales enhancement. She expressed that being her own boss has always been her aspiration, providing her with entrepreneurial freedom.
“I don’t want to work elsewhere. I’m content with my business because it allows me to be in control. I can close up and go wherever I want, whenever I want. No one can stop me,” she remarked.
Ms. Prasad acknowledges that business hardships are unavoidable, yet she has managed to navigate through them by making informed decisions. “There’s considerable competition, with many vendors selling kava. I have to compete by offering the best prices and quality.”
By cultivating a solid customer base, she competes effectively against established vendors. “I’m also enhancing my network and attracting more customers. I ensure to maintain strong relationships with my market customers and utilize social media for marketing.”
She encourages young individuals to persevere despite the challenges of securing a job post-graduation. “It was tough to find a good job immediately after graduating. Starting a small business with family support can be a great first step, allowing one to eventually transition into a white-collar job when opportunities arise.”
She expressed satisfaction with her business’s progress and has no plans to seek employment elsewhere.