Becoming a florist after his contract was not renewed has been rewarding for a father of two children.

Rajiv Rajnesh Kumar is venturing into his passion for flowers to earn some income and provide for his family.

The 37-year-old had always had this passion, so when his contract was not renewed last September he decided to try selling flowers at the Labasa Market every Saturday.

“I had worked a total of 14 years in professional work and when my contract was not renewed, I decided to do something,” Mr Kumar said.

“I used to help my mum every Saturday, selling her vegetable produce at the market. That experience gave me confidence to sell flowers at the market and I thank Labasa Town Council for giving me a table to be able to do so, despite there not being enough space.”

After graduating from the University of the South Pacific with a Bachelor of Arts degree, he worked at the Fiji Development Bank as a portfolio support officer before becoming a business manager at the Seaqaqa Branch.

He went to India to study, but was not able to complete his Masters because he had to return home when his father became ill.

Mr Kumar worked at iTaukei Land Trust Board from 2012 to 2021 in the Northern Division, but his post as an auditor was removed due to cost cutting measures during the pandemic.

“I thank the organisation that I worked for the past 10 years because I was able to help support my family since my wife was unemployed, but focused on raising our children,” he said.

Moving on to the flower business

“With technology it has really helped young entrepreneurs like me to market our business on social media platforms.

“Apart from selling every Saturday and earning $200 in a day’s sale, I have been able to build my customers through marketing on my own Facebook page.

“Through this I have gained more customers, especially from Savusavu who would send their orders through messenger and payment through M-Paisa.”

Mr Kumar said while not everyone could become a florist, it was unique for a man to delve into.

The former Labasa Sangam student said everyone had hidden talents and should tap into them to generate a source of income.

“Confidence is important; because it will take you places you never dreamt of and give you a lifetime experience as well,” he said.

Eight months on, Mr Kumar has followed all the protocols and even registered his business.

In case you’re looking for pot plants for zebras, roses, succulent indoor and outdoor plants, do look up Kumar’s Awesome Blossom Flower Garden.

“I enjoy and love what I do now for a living, it is amazing, peaceful, relaxing and rewarding and I thank my wife for her support, for not losing hope as we work together to provide for our family,” he said.

“Now days I am able to spend more quality time with my children, and help them in their transition to school,” he said.

Mr Kumar said he spends two hours a day planting flowers, talking to the plants to help them bloom before they’re sold to their new home.

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