With more than $15,000 invested into his own business Josese Cagica he is grateful to have the opportunity to live his dream.

The Narocivo, Vanuabalavu, Lau, native said it was hard growing up.

As his father was a school teacher, he was forced to live with a relative in Lautoka.

When he joined his parents in the village it was a huge transition for him.

“Staying away from my family was difficult as a young kid and missing my family left my pillow soaked as I cried because I missed them.”

“I started cooking when I was eight-years-old, then I was only in charge of pounding garlic.””

“When my cousins would be outside playing, I was inside cooking or being involved in anything to do with the kitchen.”

He said he told his father while they were cooking with firewood that one day, he would buy a gas stove.

Though he first wanted to be a doctor his passion for cooking took over his ambition.

Cakes baked and decorated by Josese Cagica

Inception Of The Cake Lab
The 27-year-old said that the name of his business was inspired by that dream. The Cake Lab.

Mr Cagica completed his studies at the Fiji National University and graduated as a pastry chef.

He joined several renowned resorts like Radisson Blu Resort and Spa, Tokoriki Island Resort, Sofitel Resort, Kokomo Private Island Resort. He even went as far as working at the Nautilus Resort in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.

Mr Cagica said he stands out from other pastry chefs because he is honest with himself that is what inspires his creations.

His biggest challenges are the fear he builds up in his head and said he is slowly now able to overcome those feelings and is gaining a lot of confidence through his creations.

The old scholar of Queen Victoria School operates from his home at Lot 35 Mustaq Road, Navosai. He hopes to open his very own cakery and teach and employ more youths or those who are keen to learn and are passionate about baking.

His father helps him in the kitchen voluntarily and for him that has been a boost to his morale and confidence.

“In three years, I see myself as a successful businessman and being able to provide the best form of art in Fiji as far as food is concerned.In the future I’d like to create more employment opportunities for young talented youths.”

“Life is precious and talent is the most valuable thing God has gifted us humans with. Do not put your talent to waste.”

“Identify what you’re capable of and use it to empower others. Be positive because it brings positive outcomes. Learn to overcome but never quit until you live your dreams.”

He has taken advantage of social media as that is where he draws many of his clients from both locally and internationally as far as Fijians living in South Africa.

You can find his Facebook page called The Cake Lab by Jay or his Instagram: Thecakelab_byjay.

Feedback: susana.tuilau@fijisun.com.fj