Chand puts State aid to good use
THE founder and owner of Botanical Infusion – Shayal Chand – believes that nothing is impossible in life when one is focused and determined.
The 26-year-old Bachelor of Science in biology/chemistry graduate from University of the South Pacific recently started her own business with the $360 government assistance.
Ms Chand was working for a real estate company as an executive assistant pre-COVID-19 and had also completed her certificate in makeup from Pivot Point.
“I wanted to make good use of the $360 government assistance so that I could generate income from it rather than wasting it on unnecessary things,” she said.
The young entrepreneur said the lockdown had taken a toll on her mental health and starting something positive in life was a way to get herself back on track.
Being unemployed during the pandemic was also a major factor that pushed her to start her own business.
“The idea to start my own business and become a young successful woman entrepreneur rather than overthinking and blaming the pandemic situation also inspired me.
“I chose this particular business because I have sensitive skin and I’m not able to use commercial products hence I decided to research/ use my knowledge and skills to formulate my own products that are local, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free skin and haircare brand that uses the finest natural and organic ingredients. Another reason I chose this particular business is because our Fijians love local, organic products made from 100 per cent natural ingredients.
“I love nature and Fiji has abundance of natural resources so I decided to formulate herbal oil, lip, face and body scrubs, lip balms, beeswax body balm, face mask, face mist and I am planning to launch other organic skincare products,” she said.
With her knowledge about certain plants, herbs and essential oil and its benefits on the skin and hair, Ms Chand started her work to get her products ready for her target customers.
“It was quite difficult to find raw material at first especially in the midst of COVID-19 so I had to search on social media for locals selling it. I also try to support other small businesses so I buy pure honey and beeswax from local bee farmers to make my lip and body balm which I infuse with other organic ingredients like turmeric, honey, rose petal, tea tree oil and activated charcoal with eucalyptus oil to make lip balms which have great beneficial properties.”
Ms Chand says she makes her products and tries them on herself and her family members before selling in the market.
She gets ingredients for her products from local farmers, supermarkets, gets her plants, herbs, mint, turmeric, basil, aloe vera and rose petals from her own garden.
She also has plans to get some formal education and training in herbal medicine in the future to continue inventing effective products in the market.
“At the moment I am operating from my home in Caubati but I wish to rent out my own space in the near future and to be able to produce and supply products in bulk to resorts and supermarkets.
“I would also love to be part of Women Entrepreneurs Business Council and SMEs to better myself so that will have a positive impact on my business.”
With the second round of government assistance opening this week, Ms Chand says people should use the money wisely on something productive that would generate income.
“Don’t spend it on outdoor events and partying. Instead buy groceries for your family.
“To all the women out there, it’s very important to be independent in life and if you put your passion into profession then you will enjoy waking up early morning to work towards your dream every day.
“Learn to be job creators rather than job seekers. You don’t always need qualification to be an entrepreneur.
“Your vision and hard work is the key to start and grow your business.”
Ms Chand believes that as a young entrepreneur there will be a lot of failures, trials and errors which will help you learn from your mistakes and improve along the journey.
“Nothing is impossible in life. Be focused and determined.
“Many assistance schemes are available from Government like the YES scheme which assists so many youths financially and mentally by providing mentoring to put their dreams and ideas to execute their business plan not only to become successful in life but boost the economy of Fiji.
“Always believe in yourself and surround yourself with positive friends that will help you grow in your career.”