Elena Tinai’s journey exemplifies determination, community assistance, and the life-changing effects of small business growth. A member of the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) at the Lautoka branch, she received the prestigious SPBD 2023 Businesswoman of the Year Award during the organization’s annual ceremony.
Ms. Tinai’s inspiring transition from struggle to success serves as motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in rural Fiji. At 44 years old, she hails from Sawakasa in Tailevu and lives in Saru, Lautoka, with her husband, who she credits as her steadfast supporter. Although the couple does not have children of their own, they have opened their home to children in need, providing them with a nurturing environment to grow and learn.
In 2013, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by joining SPBD, an organization committed to empowering small businesses in underprivileged areas. Her first loan of $700 marked the start of a transformative phase in her life.
Using the initial loan, she launched a business selling fish from the Lautoka Wharf, which steadily grew despite numerous challenges. Like many small business owners, Ms. Tinai faced tough times. She recounted juggling late-night fishing trips with selling her catch the following day to sustain her family. Nevertheless, her belief that hard work and integrity lead to success fueled her perseverance.
“I always remind myself that success isn’t about being lazy or giving up. You must keep pushing forward, no matter how tough things become,” she stated.
Her business later diversified to include kava, sourced from Rakiraki, which she sold to both regular and new clients. Over the years, her loan amounts rose from the original $700 to $5000 and then to $7000 this year, thanks to SPBD’s flexible financial solutions and community focus that have significantly contributed to her achievements.
“SPBD teaches us that we are not alone. When challenges arise, we can always look to our center for support,” she noted.
Ms. Tinai encouraged women hesitant about pursuing SPBD loans due to stereotypes and repayment worries to reconsider, stating, “This organization is not like the bank. They truly care about you and will support your success.”
Looking to the future, Ms. Tinai has ambitious plans for her business. Currently, she rents a boat for fishing but aims to purchase her own, which she believes would enhance her output and create a more sustainable operation. She aspires to motivate other women in her community to utilize SPBD’s resources.
“The only requirement is integrity. SPBD believes in you, and if they can offer you opportunities that banks cannot, you need to have faith in yourself and reinvest that support to flourish.”