Leone Nabaraki, an inspiring entrepreneur from Nasigatoka Village in Rewa, embodies the spirit of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. With a commitment to hard work and the support of his family, he has transformed his vision into reality by operating a successful riverside café that also serves as a second-hand clothing outlet and provides fuel services for local water taxi operators.
Leone’s entrepreneurial journey began after he completed high school at Lelean Memorial School, where he and his wife laid the groundwork for their future business. Their first venture was a small stall selling vegetables and root crops in 2006, which eventually expanded into a food delivery service across Suva and Nausori. However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, forcing Leone to pivot and establish a second-hand clothing business from home.
With determination, Leone sought a more permanent location and, after the pandemic restrictions eased, relocated to a bustling area at Nasali Landing. This strategic move allowed him to cater to the high foot traffic of commuters and villagers. Today, his café offers a range of food options and has become a vital hub for locals, especially during busy weekends and village events.
Leone’s ambition doesn’t stop there; he plans to expand his café into a kava bar in the evenings and is considering purchasing land for commercial farming to secure a steady supply of produce for his food business. His journey, marked by trials, including a three-year illness that forced him to rely on his wife to manage their business, showcases his unwavering spirit. Influenced by his experiences abroad through worker programs, he emphasizes the importance of time management and aims to assist his family members in improving their business acumen.
As the festive season approaches, Leone is working tirelessly to enhance his café’s facilities in anticipation of the holiday rush. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community support, and a commitment to giving back. Through his experiences, he has developed a deep desire to uplift the welfare of students in Rewa, demonstrating that true success lies in the ability to inspire and empower others.
Leone Nabaraki’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, showing that with focus, determination, and the support of loved ones, it is possible to overcome challenges and achieve one’s dreams.
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