Teen Artist Turns Trash into Treasures at Women’s Expo

A talented 17-year-old exhibitor named Litia Abigale is impressing visitors at the Northern Division Women’s Expo by turning discarded materials into stunning marine-themed home decorations. This marks Litia’s first participation in such a significant event, and she views it as an essential part of her growth as an artist.

Litia, a home-schooled student residing in Namara, Labasa, with family roots in Cikobia Island, showcased various enchanting items at her stall, including turtle, shark, and starfish artifacts. The unique designs captivated the expo attendees, and the Chief Guest, Paul Jaduram, who serves as the chairperson of the Labasa Town Council special administrator, commended her efforts during the event. Mr. Jaduram offered Litia a painting order to be displayed at his establishment, the Hotel Northwinds.

The young artist credits her supportive parents for empowering her to display her artwork. She expressed confidence that her creations would be sold out by the end of the expo, particularly noting that sales of her turtle-themed decorations were thriving.

Inspired by various online resources, Litia stated, “It caught my interest, so I tried it out,” highlighting how her mother’s encouragement led her to commercialize her artistic talents. Preparations for her exhibits began a month prior to the event, leading to a sense of pride and accomplishment as she engaged with visitors.

This event demonstrates a larger trend seen in previous expos where young entrepreneurs and artisans harness creativity to promote sustainability. Similar to Litia, other participants have successfully emphasized the importance of using local resources, thereby encouraging economic independence among women in the community. Such platforms not only showcase talent but also serve to inspire future generations to embrace their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

Litia’s journey reflects a hopeful narrative of youth empowerment through art and entrepreneurship, reinforcing the idea that with passion and creativity, anyone can make a significant impact on their community. The Northern Division Women’s Expo continues to serve as a vital platform for showcasing the diverse talents of women, encouraging innovation and sustainability across regions.