Elena Tinai’s journey serves as a powerful example of resilience, community backing, and the life-changing potential of small business initiatives. As a member of the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) from the Lautoka branch, Saru Centre, Ms. Tinai proudly received the SPBD 2023 Businesswoman of the Year Award, which is the highlight of the organization’s annual recognition event.
Her path from adversity to success provides motivation for emerging entrepreneurs, particularly women in rural areas of Fiji. At 44 years old, Ms. Tinai, originally from Sawakasa in Tailevu, now 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.
In 2013, Ms. Tinai embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by joining SPBD, an organization committed to empowering small businesses in underprivileged communities. Her initial loan of $700 was a simple start that marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in her life. Using that loan, she launched a fish-selling business at the Lautoka Wharf. Over the years, despite facing various hardships typical for small business owners, her venture gradually flourished.
Ms. Tinai shared the difficulties of managing her time, fishing at night, and then selling her catch the next day to support her family. She drew strength from her belief that success is rooted in hard work and integrity. “I always remind myself that success isn’t about being lazy or giving up. You have to persevere, no matter how tough things get,” she stated.
Her enterprise soon diversified to include kava, which she procured from Rakiraki and supplied to both regular and new clients. Over time, her loans increased from the initial $700 to $5,000 and then $7,000 this year, thanks to SPBD’s adaptable financial support and focus on community engagement, which has played a vital role in her achievements.
“SPBD shows us that we’re not on our own. In challenging times, we can always rely on our center for assistance. Many women are hesitant to join SPBD because of misconceptions about loans or fears of repayment. But I tell them, ‘this organization is not like a bank. They truly care about you and will help you thrive,’” she noted.
Looking to the future, Ms. Tinai has ambitious plans for her business. Currently, she must rent a boat for fishing, but she aims to purchase her own, believing it would enhance her fish production and further stabilize her business. Additionally, she hopes to motivate other women in her community to take advantage of SPBD’s offerings.
“The key is integrity. SPBD believes in you, and if they can provide opportunities that banks cannot, it’s essential to have faith in yourself and reinvest that support to thrive.”