At 57 years old, Jyoti Bala has transformed a childhood necessity into a successful business nestled on Lautoka’s Nede Street. The owner of Jyoti’s Tailoring began her sewing journey at the age of 17 after financial difficulties cut her formal education short.
“My parents didn’t have the money to pay for high school fees,” she explained. This setback pushed her to operate a sewing machine at a modern store in Nadi, where she initially started stitching mosquito nets.
As a single mother of two living in Vitogo, Ms. Bala established her own shop in 2014, after sharing a space since 2008. She has shown remarkable resilience, successfully navigating through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the emotional toll of her husband’s departure in 2009.
“My husband left me in 2009, and I’ve since been the sole provider for my children,” she shared. Through her hard work, she managed to pay for her daughter’s education, which cost $19,000, a testament to her dedication. Her sacrifices have paid off, as her daughter has progressed to become a lecturer at TISI Sangam Labasa.
However, despite her achievements, Ms. Bala’s business faces a continual challenge in finding experienced staff. Currently employing two machinists, she highlighted the year-round demand for her services. Sourcing materials from a drapery shop, she often relies on customers to provide their own fabrics. Her skills encompass a diverse range of garments, from blouses and caps to traditional Indian and Fijian attire.
“I can sew anything,” she stated, emphasizing that the limitation lies not in her ability but in staffing. “With more machinists, I could expand and open a larger shop.”
Looking back on her journey from a garment factory trainee to a successful business owner, Ms. Bala underscores the importance of perseverance. “You have to work hard because nobody’s going to give you anything on a silver platter.” Her story serves as an inspiring reminder that determination and hard work can lead to success, regardless of one’s circumstances.
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