Women Entrepreneurs Shine at Suva Christmas Market

From selling crafts and fresh produce by the roadside in Nailega, Wainibuka, Tailevu, to showcasing their handmade creations at the Suva Civic Centre's Christmas Market, the women of the Amania Women's Group have made remarkable strides.

Yesterday, they left their village at 4am, braving the early morning cold to bring their goods to Suva.

Their sacrifice was rewarded as they joined 40 other women entrepreneurs at the vibrant Christmas Market, an event running for the next two days.

With the festive spirit filling Suva, these women, both young and old, are seizing every opportunity to achieve financial independence.

Turning the resources around them into valuable products, the Amania Women's Group is demonstrating the resilience and determination of rural entrepreneurs.

Eleni Kaloulia, the group's treasurer, described the event as a breakthrough.

Eleni Kaloulia (yellow T -shirt) of Amania Women's Group of Wainibuka, Tailevu, during the Market day at Civic Centre carpark in Suva on December 19, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar

"At first, achieving financial independence seemed unattainable due to limited ideas and resources," she said.

"Early in the morning, we packed our goods and headed to Suva to attend the ROC Market-Fiji's longest- running street market for small businesses, crafters, and artists."

She added: "It was a huge success. We sold many mats and shopping chains and even received several custom orders for mats and nets."

Despite the challenges of establishing their place in the business world with minimal support, the Amania Women's Group remains undeterred.

"Our ultimate goal is to raise the standard of living in our village," Ms Kaloulia said.

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