'We don't give up': Woman with disability builds independence through small business

Rather than letting her disability define her, Anaseini Tora has chosen to build a future with her own hands, turning handmade crafts into a source of income and independence.

Ms Tora would usually be among a group of women with disabilities selling handmade products at Shirley Park in Lautoka, where they are showcase their talents while earning a living.

"It has been a struggle to get this far, but I have managed despite the challenges," Ms Tora said.

She said running a small business was not easy because of limited resources and the challenge of attracting enough customers.

"Sometimes sales are slow, but we don't give up because every sale helps us and encourages us to continue," she said.

Ms Tora hopes more people will support businesses run by persons with disabilities.

"When people buy from us, they are not just purchasing a product. They are helping us become more independent and showing that persons with disabilities can achieve great things," she said.

She said the market had given her an opportunity to support herself while sharing her skills with the community.

"It is more than just a place to sell our products. It is an opportunity to earn an income, build confidence and showcase our talents," she said.

Western Association for Persons with Disabilities officer Rate Joseph Ali said every purchase made at the stall supported the organisation's programmes promoting disability inclusion and creating more opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate equally in society.

The association is encouraging members of the public to visit its stall, where women are selling handmade crafts and other products to promote disability inclusion and economic empowerment.