A single mother who started a small canteen with just a carton of noodles, a bottle of cooking oil and a bucket of biscuits is now running one of the best-known bakeries in Nadawa.
42-year-old Sulita Vanabale of Nadali, Tailevu says her business journey began in 2023 following the death of her father.
She says after the funeral, the only items she could gather to start a business were a carton of noodles, a five-litre bottle of cooking oil and a bucket of biscuits.
Using a small cupboard as her shop, she began selling biscuits packed into small plastic bags.
As the eldest of nine siblings and a single mother, Vanabale says she knew she had to find a way to support herself and help her family.
She later joined South Pacific Business Development Fiji and received her first loan of $1,500, which helped her expand her business.
Vanabale says that was when she decided to venture into baking.
She bought a six-burner stove and started baking buns, gradually building her customer base and growing the business.
Insert:(VitiFM)Vanabale on challenge faced
Today, she owns a large commercial oven and operates the famous Vanabale Investment Bakery in Nadawa.
Vanabale was recently recognised as the recipient of the loan that helped South Pacific Business Development Fiji surpass the $150 million loan disbursement milestone.
She says receiving a $10,900 loan through SPBD Fiji was a proud moment and a reminder of how far she has come.
Vanabale credits much of her success to hard work, determination and support from people who believed in her, including Fili Wainiqolo of Vanuabalavu, who helped her learn baking skills.
She says running a bakery is not easy, with her day often starting around midnight so she can prepare fresh products before customers arrive in the morning.
Vanabale says there are times when she struggles with lack of sleep, but she remains committed to providing fresh, high-quality products.
She says customers often come intending to buy one loaf of bread but end up purchasing more, when they see that the products are still warm and freshly baked.
Another challenge has been staffing, there are times when workers do not turn up and she has to manage the baking herself.
Despite the difficulties, Vanabale says the key to success is dedication, perseverance and having a genuine passion for what you do.
She encourages other single mothers not to give up, and that nothing is impossible if they are willing to work hard and stay focused on their goals.
Vanabale compares building a business to raising a child.
She says when you nurture and care for it properly, it will eventually grow and reward you for your efforts.
