12-Year-Old’s Baker Talents Support Family

A 12-year-old boy has set an example for his community by supporting his family through baking cakes.

Inoke Ralata incorporated his hobby of baking into a business to support his family during these difficult times.

His father, Viliame Tocake, said Inoke started baking when he was a Year 4 student, inspiring many youths in his community.

“He developed an interest in baking by observing his mother bake cakes,” he said.

“Last month some of my family and friends came over and told him to teach them how to bake.”

Mr Tocake said he had lost his job due to the impacts of COVID-19 and Inoke helped him support his family.

“I felt emotional when my son helped me cater for my family during hard times and I thank God for giving him this talent.

“He earned $500 per month last September and at the moment he is earning money to order more decoration sets.

“My family from overseas is very supportive and have sent some baking sets for him from Australia recently. As a parent we are proud of his achievements.”

Inoke operates a home based business and is saving money to buy more baking sets. His family are from Dakuilomaloma Village in Vanuabalavu. Inoke has maternal links to Muanaicake Village, Fulaga. They are currently living in Wakanisila.

“Most family and friends place their orders on our Facebook Page- Inoke Benjamine Ralata,” he said.

“He takes orders for birthdays and weddings. He baked cake for church ceremonies for free to showcase his talent.

Inoke juggled his school work with his business and remained proactive towards achieving his dreams.

“During the closure of school, he was given worksheets to do and after completing the worksheets he baked cakes,” Mr Tocake said.

“We balance things at home, he is the eldest of his three siblings - an inspiration to them.”

Future goals

Inoke is hoping to become a professional baker and businessman in the future.

“He wants to expand his business in the future after completing secondary school and set up his own business,” Mr Tocake said.

“He will probably do a short course in baking at a university and venture into setting up his own business.”

Message

Mr Tocake’s message to parents is to let their child pursue what they want to do and be open minded.

“Have faith in your children and support them.

“Supervise them and do not let them be idle and do unnecessary things.

“All of us cannot be doctors and lawyers and we need to see the talents our children have which can take them a long way.”

Inoke was given a special recognition certificate at the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards (DEIA) yesterday at Civic Centre in Suva.

The Year 6 student of Kalabu Primary School was recognised for his efforts to challenge himself, getting involved in youth work and create a brighter future for young Fijians.