At just 20 years old, Shivnil Karan, a second-year Bachelor of Science student at the University of the South Pacific, is proving that passion can turn into profit.
Karan’s side hustle, Aqualuxe Garden, specializes in selling beautiful goldfish and accessories, bringing calm and colour to homes around Suva.
Speaking to fijivillage News at the Garden City Market Day in Raiwaqa yesterday, Karan says his love for goldfish started when he was only six years old, after a memorable visit to the Nausori Market where he spotted his first goldfish.
He says from that moment, he took on the responsibility of caring for his pet, slowly growing his collection over the years.
This year marks his seventh market day at the Garden City Market in Raiwaqa, where he sells a variety of goldfish including Shubunkin, Japanese Kois, Oranda goldfish, and guppies, which happen to be his most popular sellers.
He says his business began when he had more than enough goldfish at home, so he decided to find them new homes.
He says he began with just a few fish, but now people order from him whatever goldfish they want.
He says his prices range from $7 for individual fish to $25 for beginner bowl sets, which include everything a first-time goldfish owner needs, such as fish food and air pumps.
For Shivnil, owning a goldfish is more than just keeping a pet — it represents calmness and peace.
Reflecting on his business journey, Shivnil emphasized the importance of passion and perseverance.
He says no business is too small; even when you start with nothing, your passion will take you somewhere one day.
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