Arieta Navosa, a small business owner, has significantly changed her life through her passion for handicrafts. At 61 years old, and originally from Namata, Bau Tailevu, Arieta married into Suvavou Village and spent many of her middle years babysitting. However, her life took a turn when a friend introduced her to a business program, which encouraged her to register and start her own venture.
She enrolled with the Fiji Arts Council and launched her handicraft business at the FNPF Plaza in Suva, coinciding with her 60th birthday. Arieta specializes in creating handmade earrings, necklaces, tie-dye materials, and various types of bags, including laptop, cosmetic, and handbags.
Her earnings vary based on customer demand, ranging between $50 and over $200 each week, with additional orders coming from international customers. Despite her modest income, she manages to pay her monthly rent of $200 and support her family.
Arieta inspires the youth and her peers to believe in their abilities, capitalize on their talents, and remember that it’s never too late to pursue their dreams. She attributes her success to her faith in God.