A mother, who is also a University of the South Pacific student, says she will resume her small bakery business after receiving a grant of $500 yesterday.

Luse Raovana of Vatunibale, Labasa, was among eight recipients who received grants from the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Tourism, under the Trade Enhancement Programme.

After getting married, the 29-year- old operated her business from home and going by the name, ‘Mystery Bloom Services’.

For two years, during the COVID-19 pandemic, her business stopped and she diverted time to look after her child, who is now two years old.

“I am thankful to Government for this assistance and Minister Faiyaz Koya for choosing the people of Labasa to be the first recipients of this programme,” Ms Raovana said.

“With this grant I will be able to buy ingredients and utensils which I couldn’t afford as prices of everything has gone up.”

She also thanked her husband for supporting her business dream.

She has plans to extend the business into cooking and catering while pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology.

“Although it won’t be easy to fulfill my role as a mother, wife, student and businesswoman, I will try my best.”

“Nothing is too hard when God is with you.”

Feedback: shratika.naidu@fijisun.com.fj