Traditional crafts help entrepreneur empower local communities

For the past seven years, Mafi Leba, 47, has turned her passion for traditional Fijian handicrafts into a thriving business that not only celebrates Fiji's rich cultural heritage but also creates opportunities for others.

She was among the women who showcased their products at a bazaar organised by the South Pacific Coffee Company (SPCC) in Nadi last Saturday.

The event highlighted Fiji's growing reputation for authentic local products, food experiences and craftsmanship.

The bazaar brought together food enthusiasts, industry stakeholders and advocates of local cuisine to showcase the diversity of Fiji's produce and the important role local ingredients and artisan products play in creating distinctive visitor experiences.

Originally from Muanaicake Village in Fulaga, Lau, Ms Leba is the founder of Mafis Creations, a business specialising in handmade jewellery, masi crafts, voivoi weaving, shell crafts and other traditional Fijian handicrafts.

Married with one child, Ms Leba said her motivation came from a deep love of crafting and a desire to preserve traditional skills for future generations.

"My motivation comes from my passion for making crafts, preserving our cultural heritage, earning a sustainable income, and inspiring others through creating and skills development," she said.

Ms Leba said she started the business with the simple goal of keeping traditional Fijian handicrafts alive by creating products from natural and recycled materials, including masi, voivoi, shells, beach nuts and cibi.

As demand for her handcrafted products grew, she realised she could turn her passion into a sustainable business.

Today, Mafis Creations not only produces unique handcrafted items but also provides training to help others develop handicraft skills, earn an income and preserve Fiji's cultural traditions.

Ms Leba said the business allowed her to combine creativity with cultural preservation while building a livelihood for herself and supporting others.

Her long-term goal is to grow a sustainable business that showcases Fiji's craftsmanship while empowering local communities through skills development and entrepreneurship.