Tiko Ledua is making strides with her innovative upcycling venture, Ledua’s Art Collection. With 15 years of experience in painting and decorating, Ms. Ledua has seamlessly blended her skills with her commitment to sustainability, resulting in a unique business that turns waste into functional art.
Not only has she built her business independently, but she has also skillfully designed her website to highlight her distinctive products.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
“Being a mother comes first,” Ms. Ledua commented. Her daily routine revolves around balancing motherhood with the demands of her home-based business. Whether she is caring for her toddler or crafting her next creation, her days are filled with activity. “My day is always busy, either I am working or I am mothering,” she shared.
THE CREATIVE JOURNEY
Ms. Ledua’s artistic journey began long before her formal training. “Before studying painting and decorating in 2009, I was always fascinated by the wonders of colours and their effect on our everyday life,” she reminisced. This passion for colors led her from coordinating outfits in her childhood to mastering color integration in her professional practice.
DISCOVERING UPCYCLING
The inspiration to incorporate upcycling into her art emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Residing in Raiwaqa, she and her husband, who has experience in construction and joinery, began gathering discarded materials from their surroundings. “We started our journey of upcycling by collecting waste such as old tires, baby cots, and cardboard,” Ms. Ledua explained. “From here we created art and home goods using waste as our primary materials.”
BUILDING A BUSINESS
Transforming her skills into a business has presented challenges. “It was never easy, and it still isn’t!” she stated. She firmly believes in the power of networking, asserting that “Network is your Net Worth when you’re in business.” Despite facing doubt and ridicule for her unconventional use of waste materials, Ms. Ledua’s determination and zeal have driven her forward.
FUTURE PLANS
Ms. Ledua has ambitious plans for her upcycling business. “We are working and planning on opening an upcycling center aimed at supporting women upcyclers,” she noted. This center will serve as a hub for empowerment, a showroom, and a safe space for artistic creation. Her vision includes fostering a community where women can flourish and make a positive impact on the environment.
RECENT SUCCESS
Recently, Ms. Ledua conducted a successful workshop as part of an Outbound Fellows program sponsored by the Department of State through the East West Centre. The workshop focused on identifying potential trainers in Fiji’s western and northern regions and was deemed a great success. “We were able to identify six potential trainers,” Ms. Ledua reported with pride.
EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY
To expand her business effectively, Ms. Ledua recognized the necessity of a sustainable revenue stream and a method to convey her mission to customers. This led her to participate in a website-building workshop sponsored by Business Assistance Fiji. “The website workshop and building process were very productive and efficient,” she stated. The new website has become an essential tool for her business operations.
ADVICE ON UPCYCLING
Ms. Ledua encourages individuals to learn about repurposing household waste. “Educate yourselves on how to repurpose household waste to reduce and minimize waste in landfills,” she urged. “There’s so much to do, Fiji!”
Ms. Ledua exemplifies how creativity, passion, and perseverance can transform even the most unlikely materials into beautiful, practical items. Her journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with a touch of imagination, anyone can contribute to a more sustainable future.