Music Fanatic Wins Business Award

Ilai Motonicocoko Lomaloma, 23, never thought he would be named the “Best Male Entrepreneur” during the Ministry of Youth and Sports Award Night in Labasa on Thursday night.

It will be a night he is sure to cherish and he believes that being recognised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports will boost his business.

Mr Lomaloma has a recording studio and has two employees. He has done recordings for well-known Fijian groups such as Drodrolagi kei Nautosolo, Seinibuasala, and Cakau Ni Mana.

The Cakaudrove lad was emotional when he described how he started.

“When I was in Form Six my main interest was music. I didn’t complete my sixth form studies because I decided to pursue my dream,” Mr Lomaloma said.

“My father returned from Iraq and asked my mum how was my studies. She told him that I never studied and that I was always playing guitar.

“My father then bought me a new guitar and that was how my career started.

“My parents were very supportive of my decision to leave school and pursue what I loved doing.

I have never looked back from that day because I believe this is one of the best decisions I have made in my life.”

Mr Lomaloma hopes to expand his business in the near future.

“The North is not like Suva when it comes to sound and lights systems. Once my business expands then I will also be able to employ more people. I felt proud of myself receiving this award and it makes me feel that I have actually done something,” he said.

“Every child has different talent and it is always good when they realise them sooner. Not everyone will be good in studies and sometimes we just need someone to listen to us.”

Mr Lomaloma believes parents should sit with their children and ask them what they want to do in life and not impose on them a career they don’t want.

Edited by Epineri Vula

My parents were very supportive of my decision to leave school and pursue what I loved doing. I have never looked back from that day because I believe this is one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Ilai Motonicocoko Lomaloma Producer