The colours, textures and stories of Papua New Guinea are finding a place at the Garden City market day, thanks to Catherine Galgal, whose handmade products are bringing a touch of home to Suva.
Originally from PNG, Galgal has been living in Fiji for the past two years with her husband and young son.
What began as a simple idea to stay active while away from formal employment has grown into a small but meaningful venture, showcasing traditional items sourced from across PNG’s diverse provinces.
While showing her products to fijivillage News, Galgal says PNG is known for its cultural diversity, with her baskets made from East Sepik in Wewak, fibre crafts from Bougainville, bark-made accessories from Madang, and traditional string bilums from Morobe Province.
Galgal says most of the items are sourced directly from home, with her sending money back to family members who purchase the products from local markets before they are sent to Fiji.
She says her small business also helps support relatives and artisans back in Papua New Guinea.
Beyond the market, Galgal says she keeps busy volunteering at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital and as a member of the Corona Fiji Women’s Group, while raising her son and caring for her nephew.
She says selling at the market has allowed her not only to stay connected to her roots but also to share PNG culture with people in Fiji.
With warm encouragement for families and women back home, Galgal hopes her efforts will inspire others to continue sharing their culture and creativity across the Pacific.
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