In Koronivia, Nausori, a unique and inspiring business venture is flourishing, built on the bond and creativity of a mother-daughter duo, Sedula Devi and her daughter Simran Prasad. Their brand, Beaded Treasures, specializes in handmade jewellery and has gained significant traction over the past four years, originating from a need to address rising university costs.

Simran Prasad, currently 27, found herself challenged by the financial demands of attending the University of the South Pacific (USP). To alleviate the burden, she began creating her own jewellery, which caught the attention of her mother, Ms. Devi. Together, they transformed this small endeavour into a thriving business. “We started when she was in university, and it was difficult for her to afford bus fare and fees,” Ms. Devi reminisced about their humble beginnings. Their efforts not only helped Simran financially but also ignited a shared passion for crafting jewellery.

Ms. Prasad discovered her love for jewellery making while searching for unique pieces for her graduation, leading her to create her first piece in a local shop. This newfound passion blossomed during the COVID-19 pandemic as both mother and daughter dedicated themselves to their craft. Their efforts quickly grew from university sales to local markets at Thurston Garden and the Rock Market, showcasing their talent and creativity.

The business has expanded to include custom-made jewellery, repairs, and a variety of boho-inspired designs that celebrate both everyday elegance and special occasions. Ms. Devi benefited from the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), which provided crucial resources to further develop their business acumen. “The AWE program was really educational and informative,” she said, reflecting on how it contributed to the growth of Beaded Treasures.

Resilience and belief in their talent have been the key elements of their success. Ms. Devi encourages others to embrace their skills and pursue their ambitions. “If you know you have talent, use it,” she advises. Her daughter, echoing her sentiment, emphasizes perseverance: “There will be challenges, but don’t give up; there’s always light at the end of the tunnel.”

Beaded Treasures exemplifies how passion, determination, and the support of family can lead to fulfilling entrepreneurship. Each handcrafted item symbolizes the dedication of this mother-daughter team, inspiring others to turn their dreams into reality. Their journey demonstrates that even from humble beginnings, one can create a successful and impactful business that resonates with the community and beyond.

In summary, this uplifting story shows that hard work and creativity can transform challenges into opportunities, providing a hopeful message for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.