After dedicating twenty years to the tourism industry, Meli Rokotakala uncovered his true passion during a period of global turmoil. In 2021, as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the world, Meli left his position in Nadi and returned to his hometown of Nabalebale Village in Cakaudrove.
During this uncertain time, he took the opportunity to reflect on his talents. While relaxing in his garden, Meli became captivated by the vibrant beauty of flowers. This burgeoning passion for horticulture inspired him to create decorative arrangements for homes, transforming a hobby into a thriving business.
Drawing from his previous roles with South Sea Cruises, Fiji Club, and Tuitai Adventure Cruises, Meli founded his own company, Meli’s Artfeast Investment. He quickly became a popular event decorator in Savusavu and Labasa, showcasing his creativity in various events, including birthday parties, funerals, weddings, corporate gatherings, and religious ceremonies.
As a perfectionist, Meli carefully selects flowers from his garden, ensuring that each arrangement demonstrates his keen eye for color and design. His entrepreneurial journey also led him to establish a savings account with the BSP branch in Savusavu, paving the way for financial independence.
Recognizing the importance of furthering his knowledge, Meli participated in a three-day workshop organized by BSP in partnership with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) under the THRIVE program. This initiative, which stands for “Together, Helping to build a Resilient, Inclusive, and Vibrant Economy,” focuses on equipping entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to effectively manage their businesses.
Meli understands that success is built on more than just passion; it requires a solid grasp of financial management. He reflects, “Not everyone is destined for blue- or white-collar jobs. Some young people have the potential to become successful entrepreneurs, and it’s crucial that they have the support they need to grow.”
As the oldest of four siblings and an alumnus of Savusavu Secondary School, Meli emphasizes the importance of pursuing fulfilling work. He notes, “Many people are unhappy in their jobs but continue for the sake of their families. It’s vital to find out what makes you truly happy and pursue it.”
Meli expressed profound gratitude to BSP and ABV for the transformative experience that the workshop provided, urging young individuals to uncover their unique talents and contribute to their communities rather than merely conforming to societal expectations.
The Fiji THRIVE program began as the “Your Enterprise Scheme” (YES) at BSP headquarters in Papua New Guinea in 2019. In collaboration with ABV, the initiative aimed to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in PNG by offering essential knowledge, resources, and skills. BSP Fiji subsequently adapted and renamed the program THRIVE to reflect its commitment to fostering a resilient, inclusive, and vibrant economy.