Melaia Adi took the risk and resigned from her teaching job to focus on pastry business.

The Yasawa-I Rara native was a high school teacher for 21 years and taught at various schools around the country.

She started her sideline pastry business while teaching until 2018 when she decided it was time to expand her business.

In 2019, she registered her business, Adi’s Events.

She rented a space in Nadera and in March 2020, she moved to Parade Arcade in Suva.

Three weeks later, COVID-19 struck our shores.

Like any other business, hers too felt the impact of the pandemic.

She applied for the COVID-19 relief assistance at the Fiji Development Bank to keep her business running.

At first, her application was rejected, she re-applied and this time she was given a $7,000 loan. She paid her rent and other expenses.

The mother-of-five children was blessed that the business had brought her family together as they all have a common love for food.

Ms Adi is also a recipient of the FDB’s loan facility for Women Entrepreneurs.

“We have been busy since August this year and we’re grateful that there is a financial institution like FDB that could assist small businesses to thrive especially for a business woman like me,” Ms Adi said.

Story By:  laisa.kabulevu@fijisun.com.fj