Jacqueline Tareguci named her business, The Journey.

This is to remind her of the hardships she had to go through as a school dropout to become an entrepreneur.

Today, the 27-year-old owns a home-based handicraft business which specialises in earrings, fans, Tabua, purses, and mats, particularly unique customized contemporary pieces using locally sourced materials.

Ms Tareguci hails from Udu Point in Vanua Levu.

Upon returning from one of her trips to Labasa, she decided to open her business and started selling online.

She is also a blogger.

Despite the challenges, she chooses to move on.

Ms Tareguci said being a school dropout and unemployed with no university qualifications, she felt that handicraft was her calling from God.

She believes it’s the duty of the younger generation to keep up with art and traditions.

She has also made pieces for the Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Arden and the former President of Fiji Jioji Konrote.

“We work according to our customers’ budget.”

Where in Fiji would you take visitors to? 

My home land in Udu Point, Vanua Levu, the majestic view and its one of the places I cherish the most.

Inset: Sunset in Udu. Photos: Selita Rabuku.

What is your favorite place for coffee/pie? 

Tea Totoka in Suva , their buns are tasty plus meeting people from different backgrounds.

Fresh buns from Tea Totoka cafe from Yatu Lau Arcade in Suva.

What is your favorite backyard spot? 

At home. Surrounded by my family and friends.

What is one place in Fiji that is on your bucket list? 

The long white sandy beaches in the Yasawa’s Group of islands. .

Yasawa Island Resort. Source: www.fiji.travel

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj