First, the pain of losing her husband in January this year, then on May 22, she lost her mats and jewellery stock to the fire that completely destroyed her Flea Market stall in Suva.

Despite these setbacks in life, Kelera Vakatalai, stood firm for her three children and persevered through the difficult time they had to go through as a family.

Ms Vakatalai knew she had to pick up the pieces and start all over.

It was not until she heard of the Government’s COVID-19 Concessional Financial Support Package for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).

Ms Vakatalai who is a recipient of this loan now operates a successful Fijian mat crochet and a canteen business.

“I am really grateful for this loan package because it has really helped me get on my two feet again,” she said.

“When I got the money, I had learnt the skill of crochet and today I can earn $600 to $700 a week from the mats that I crochet and sell.

“I operate from home now and I use social media to market my work which has gained popular attention even from those overseas.

“I had to sacrifice my all for the sake of the children and I am grateful to be assisted under this loan.”

Edited by Selita Bolanavanua

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