What started as a passion for sewing has grown into a small business for Wainikiti Baleinavalu of Nabaitavo, Naitasiri, who is now showcasing and selling her handmade clothing at the 16th SPBD Foundation Day celebration at the Vodafone Arena.
Based at the Suva Municipal Market, Baleinavalu says she began sewing in 2020 after graduating from the National Training and Productivity Centre with a certificate in Fashion and Design.
She initially worked from home, sewing clothes according to customer orders while also creating her own designs.
Today, she has her own stall at the Suva Market, where she sells clothing that she makes herself.
Baleinaivalu says participating in events such as the Roc Markets gives her an opportunity to showcase her sewing skills, reach more customers and introduce people to her designs.
She buys her own materials and creates different styles and patterns, including Hawaiian prints and suit dresses.
Her collection caters for different body sizes, including sizes 18, 20 and 22, as well as free-size clothing.
Balenaivalu says sewing has also become a way for her to earn additional income while doing something she enjoys.
As she joins other women entrepreneurs in showcasing their mostly handmade products at the SPBD Foundation Day celebration, she hopes to inspire more young women to take a chance on their abilities.
Her message to girls and young women who dream of starting their own businesses is to believe in themselves and have confidence in what they can achieve.
She says having a dream is the first step, but trusting yourself and taking the initiative can help turn that dream into reality.
