Weaving is a way of life for Fulaga entrepreneur
YOU will surely reap rewards when you dedicate your time and effort to your work. Based in the tourist town of Nadi, Alena Eta doesn't just weave baskets; she also plaits a narrative of resilience, entrepreneurship, and the enduring power of tradition in her art work.
Originating from the village of Muana-i-Ra in Fulaga, Alena's hands carry the weight of generations, transforming common materials into exquisite works of art.
As a young student returning home, she would be greeted by the comforting sight of her family members engrossed in the timeless art of basket weaving.
This daily spectacle ignited a passion within her, leading to years of learning and practice.
"My journey with weaving spans over a decade. I come from a family where weaving is not just a craft; it's a way of life.
"My mother and grandmother were skilled weavers. As their hands crafted baskets, I was there right beside them observing and learning all I could. "I would watch them weave baskets to support the family, and over the years, I became adept at the craft.
"I didn't just want to learn; I wanted to master it. The craft became a part of who I am," she said.
Even after marriage, Alena remained dedicated to her craft.
The true test came when her husband faced unemployment, and the baskets she crafted became a lifeline for her family.
"During that challenging period, the baskets sustained us. We didn't have much, but what I made became a source of income and pride for me.
"I would make the baskets and travel to hotels to sell what I made, opening new opportunities. It was a chance to showcase my craft to a wider audience and support my family."
Alena's dreams reached new heights when she heard about the Soqosoqo Ni Marama in
Nadi. There, she was able to learn and grow as an entrepreneur from her peer group.
"Joining the Soqosoqo Ni Marama was a dream come true. I always wished to be a part of this group, and through their guidance, I was able to participate in expos to showcase my talent across Fiji.
"Being part of these gatherings allows me to learn from other talented craftwomen and explore different talents and business strategies.
"Despite her children's employment, Alena's passion for weaving remains undiminished.
"I earn money for myself from the work I do. The handicraft business is lucrative, and with dedication and hard work, it can be truly rewarding.
"I derive personal income from my craft, whether it's weaving a basket overnight for a morning delivery, earning $150, or accumulating $400 to $500 weekly.
"Adjusting prices to accommodate rising raw material costs has been crucial.
It's a balancing act, but the love for what I do keeps me going.
"Beyond the monetary gains, Alena's craft has paved the way for personal and family achievements.
"When my husband found employment again, we were able to rent a house, pay our children's school fees, and even buy land to build our own house.
"You can achieve anything if you dedicate your time and effort to it.
"My skills has grown, and baskets aren't the only thing I weave. I make fans, purses, trays, and a range of items.
“Whatever can be made from voivoi, I can make.
"If we don't make use of our talents or gifts, we will not amount to anything.
Whatever knowledge I had, I put in my work, and I am now reaping the rewards."
She urges fellow women not to rely on other people and to use whatever skills and knowledge to help their families.