Reshmi Kumari, the first female chairperson to the Sugar Cane Growers Council, likes to lead by example.

She enjoys helping people by improving their livelihood.

Ms Kumari is the director policy, planning and research at the Ministry of Sugar Industry, at Government Buildings.

“I believe establishing new opportunities and strategies as early as possible are the key to securing a better future,” she said.

“At the ministry, I develop and implement policies to provide farmers’ opportunities to access resources such as grants, and quality customer services that help them in generating income.”

Not many are aware that Ms Kumari is single, adventurous, and enjoys great sense of humour.

“I create exciting opportunities for myself and always open for new ones,” Ms Kumari said.

“I think outside the box.

“I rarely do what others are doing or because I am told I ‘should do’.

“In fact, I question a lot to make sure it makes sense to me.

“I am compassionate.

“I understand others point of view and forgive when others make mistake.”

What is one place in Fiji you would take visitors to, and why?

I would take them to Colo-I-Suva Forest Park.

The environment and nature at Colo-I-Suva soothes and heals me, putting my senses in order.

As for any individual, like music and art, the love for nature and a soothing environment is a very common language that can transcend any boundaries I believe.

What is your favourite spot for a coffee or tea, and why? 

The Republic of Cappuccino (ROC) is my favorite, because of their high quality and friendly service.

They offer good coffee of course and mouthwatering deserts.

Coffee at the Republic of Cappuccino (ROC) Suva.

They have varieties on their menu.

They have a professional environment where I enjoy taking sips of my coffee and also meet new people.

What is a local destination on your bucket list, and why?

Taveuni.

Being the third-largest island of Fiji, it has Lake Tagimoucia, one of the most famous geographical landmark and home to the indigenous Tagimoucia flower.

Sunrise in Taveuni.

I have heard many stories about the landmark and would like to personally experience the sight of that rare flower (if I get to).

I also want to experience the sight of the first sunrise in the world, which is only seen in Taveuni.

Is there a secret backyard spot that you enjoy? If so, please explain.

Yes, I enjoy my time with my plants.

I have a passion for pot plants and flowers which I believe allows me to also grow in all places people thought I never would.

After work or during the weekends, I love spending my leisure time around my plants.

Plants help me connect to nature, relives my stress and gives me happiness.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj