From doubt to business success: Suva entrepreneur finds confidence through support program

Vasenai Soqo A Suva entrepreneur has transformed her initial apprehension about financial borrowing into a thriving small business, demonstrating a remarkable journey from doubt to success. Katarina Laisa, the entrepreneur in question, spent years avoiding the idea of becoming a businesswoman, convinced that loans and credit often created more problems than opportunities.

Her perspective underwent a significant change after participating in a workshop organized by the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD). While Laisa had been selling products prior to joining SPBD, she had never considered it a serious business venture. This perception shifted when she became involved with the Caubati Centre and was introduced to training and financial support opportunities specifically designed to empower women entrepreneurs.

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She credits SPBD for helping her better understand business management and giving her the confidence to grow her enterprise.

Today, Laisa operates a successful juice stall in Suva, offering a variety of fresh juices, roti, pies, and other food items. She attributes her improved understanding of business management and newfound confidence in growing her enterprise directly to SPBD's support. Now in her third year of operation, Laisa reports that the business continues to perform well, navigating the inherent challenges of running a small enterprise.

Laisa views every obstacle encountered as a valuable learning experience. She actively encourages other women, particularly those facing financial difficulties, to explore the opportunities available through business support programs like SPBD. She emphasizes that determination, faith, and a willingness to learn are key ingredients that can help turn even the smallest idea into a successful business.

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Laisa says determination, faith and a willingness to learn can help turn even the smallest idea into a successful business.