In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging for single mothers to achieve financial independence while balancing the responsibilities of raising a child.
However, Ms Nishrat Nazeen, a single mother from Nasau Nadi, has defied the odds by starting her own business, known as Aromas Fiji, and raising her 11-year-old son.
Through her soap-making and candle-making skills, Ms Nazeen has not only secured her financial future but has also inspired other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
After her divorce in 2018, Ms Nazeen decided to take control of her life and become financially independent.
“I am thankful to my family for their support during the most difficult moment for my life. However, I yearned to pursue something different and unique,” she said.
Ms Nazeen said this is when she discovered her passion for creating organic soap, herbal hair oil, shear butter scrub cubes, and scented soy candles.
She learnt the art of making soap and oil from The Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises & Development (FRIEND) and candles from her sister.
At Aromas Fiji, Ms Nazeen and her team are dedicated soap artisans who produce small batches of wholesale organic soap, hair oil, scrub cubes, and soy candles that not only look beautiful but also have exceptional qualities for the skin and hair.
With a focus on quality and natural ingredients, Aromas Fiji stands out in the market, offering customers products that are both unique and beneficial. Ms Nazeen sells her products throughout Fiji.
Ms Nazeen is one of the recipients of the Business Link Pacific (BLP) Business Support Grant. She received the total amount of $6,650.00.
With this grant money, she will purchase equipment for her business, packaging, and marketing, which will enable her to expand and reach a wider customer base.
“I am thankful to BLP and Business Assistance Fiji (BAF) for giving me this grant. With this grant, I will be able to expand my business,” she said.
Ms Nazeen came to know about BAF through Western Women Entrepreneurs when she was informed about the e-commerce training is being held at the at Mercure Hotel in Nadi.
The e-commerce training provided her with essential knowledge and skills to grow her business further.
“Micro, Small & Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) in Fiji are crucial for employment generation, economic diversification, rural development, cultural preservation, and supporting the tourism industry. Therefore, having organisations like BAF is crucial to MSMEs in Fiji,” she said.
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