After two decades in the tourism sector, Meli Rokotakala found his true passion amidst the global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, he had to leave his job in Nadi and return to his home in Nabalebale Village, Cakaudrove, where he took time to reflect on his skills and interests.
While in his peaceful backyard garden, Meli became captivated by the beauty of flowers, which sparked a newfound love for horticulture. This hobby quickly evolved into a thriving business as he began creating decorative floral arrangements for homes.
Leveraging his experience with South Sea Cruises, Fiji Club, and Tuitai Adventure Cruises, Meli established his own company, Meli’s Artfeast Investment. He has since emerged as a popular event decorator in Savusavu and Labasa, catering to a wide array of events, including birthday celebrations, funerals, weddings, corporate gatherings, and religious ceremonies.
A perfectionist by nature, Meli carefully selects flowers from his garden, ensuring that each arrangement showcases his keen eye for color and design. Recently, he opened a savings account at the BSP branch in Savusavu, marking a significant step toward his financial independence.
Meli eagerly participated in BSP’s three-day workshop in collaboration with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV), which is part of the THRIVE programme. This initiative, which stands for “Together, Helping to build a Resilient, Inclusive, and Vibrant Economy,” is designed to provide entrepreneurs with essential skills to successfully manage their businesses.
Meli acknowledged the importance of operating a business effectively, noting that success hinges not only on passion but also on understanding financial dynamics. He emphasized the potential of young people to become successful entrepreneurs and the necessity of support for their growth.
As the eldest of four siblings and a former student of Savusavu Secondary School, Meli highlighted the value of pursuing fulfilling work. He pointed out that many people remain in jobs they dislike for the sake of family obligations, stressing the importance of discovering personal happiness and chasing it.
Meli expressed profound appreciation to BSP and ABV for the workshop experience in Labasa, which he described as life-changing. He encourages young individuals to explore their unique talents and contribute positively to their communities instead of conforming to societal expectations.
The Fiji THRIVE programme began as the “Your Enterprise Scheme” (YES) at BSP headquarters in Papua New Guinea in 2019. In partnership with ABV, the programme aims to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in PNG by providing vital knowledge and resources. BSP Fiji adapted the programme to fit the local market, renaming it THRIVE to signify its dedication to fostering a resilient, inclusive, and vibrant economy.