57-year-old Ulumalolo proves it’s never too late to succeed

I used to wish I was 20 years younger — but now I know, it’s never too late to start over.

These were the powerful words of Emilia Uluimalolo, a 57-year-old mother, former teacher, and hotel florist from Lomanivanua, Navosa, who was named the South Pacific Business Development Business Woman of the Year.

While speaking to fijivillage News, Uluimalolo says her journey to success wasn’t easy, but it was full of faith, courage, and hard work.

After working in education and hospitality, Uluimalolo shared that she made the bold decision to leave her job as a wedding florist in Sigatoka to pursue her dream of running her own flower business.

She says joining SPBD three years ago marked a turning point.

With access to microloans, training, and mentorship, Uluimalolo’s floral business began to grow steadily, and so did her confidence as an entrepreneur.

She advises youths who are struggling to find jobs to utilise the land that already exists for the betterment of their livelihood.

Now, with her business thriving and her message reaching others, Ulumalolo stands as an inspiration for women and youth across Fiji and the Pacific.