Former journalist begins career as a fashion designer
Aformer Fiji Sun journalist has graduated with a national certificate in Fashion, Manufacturing and Design from the Makoi Women Vocational Centre. Luisa Qiolevu took a turn in her career after she lost her job, while working for a non-governmental organisation, due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
When she was laid off, Ms Qiolevu stayed at home and thought of what was next in life, but she did not worry much because of her firm religious faith.
But just as she was about to start her four-month course at the vocational centre, tragedy struck.
Her unborn child died in her womb when she was just about to give birth. Heartbroken, the 35-year-old Rewa native worked to pick up the pieces of her life.
While she and her husband’s spirits were indeed dampened, but they dared themselves to continue journeying through life together.
“It was the most devastating experience I had to go through,” she said. “I came to know about this centre when I was still a journalist.” Ms Qiolevu had to sell roti parcels and sweets around her neighbourhood in Narere in order to pay for bus fare to and from the centre. “I faced many financial difficulties when I lost my job, but I remained faithful in serving God,” she said. “This is a game changer for me.”
Don’t be afraid to leave a wellpaid job to discover what God has planned for you Luisa Qiolevu Makoi Vocational Centre graduate
Ms Qiolevu advice to others was: “Don’t not be afraid to venture into different careers”. “Don’t be afraid to leave a well-paid job to discover what God has planned for you.”