Sweet success
The resilient journey of Waitika Farm’s founders
IN the lush landscapes of western Fiji, nestled within what was once a sugar cane field, a captivating story of transformation unfolds at Waitika Farm. Back in 2010, Anil and Jean, two visionaries with a deep reverence for nature’s tiny yet mighty pollinators, set out on a journey fueled by their passion for bees.
What began as a humble endeavour, with just a handful of beehives, has since blossomed into something truly remarkable.
Today, Waitika Farm stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication, evolving into a thriving and sustainable eco-friendly haven.
Amid the gentle hum of bees, this farm not only yields exquisite honey but also crafts an array of wax and honey products that delight the senses.
As word of Waitika’s sweet offerings spread, so did the curiosity of the community and visitors alike.
Eager to taste the magic for themselves, people flocked to the farm, leading to the creation of immersive bee farm experiences.
Here, amid the vibrant blooms and buzzing activity, visitors gain firsthand insight into the intricate relationship between bees and flowers, all while immersing themselves in the farm’s other offerings.
Yet, Waitika Farm is more than just a haven for bees.
It is a beacon of community spirit and empowerment.
Rooted in their desire to give back, Anil and Jean have spearheaded numerous initiatives, particularly focusing on uplifting women in the community.
Through collaborative efforts, they have sown the seeds of success, bringing sweetness and opportunity to many lives.
Prior to their farming venture, Anil practiced law in Suva for nearly five decades, while Jean shared her passion for music as an IB Music teacher at the International School Suva for many years.
In their moments of respite, Anil finds solace in sports and global affairs, while Jean indulges in her love for music, working alongside rural women, and tending to the garden. In the tapestry of their shared journey, Anil and Jean have woven a tale of transformation and harmony, turning a once ordinary sugar cane field into a thriving sanctuary where bees and humans coexist in perfect harmony.
At Waitika Farm, the sweetest rewards are found not just in the honey, but in the bonds forged and lives touched along the way. Amid the vibrant buzz of anticipation surrounding Waitika Farm, another exciting chapter unfolds for Anil and Jean.
Alongside their flourishing agricultural venture, the couple has been invited to share their inspiring journey at this year’s WIN convention in March.
Under the spotlight of the session titled “Growing Businesses and Transforming Communities for Sustainability – Balancing Family, Growing Business, and the Resilient Journey,” Anil and Jean will take centre stage.
With hearts full of hope and wisdom garnered from their own experiences, the beautiful couple aims to inspire participants with their remarkable story of resilience and growth.
As they prepare to grace the stage, Anil and Jean carry with them the belief that their journey holds valuable lessons for all.
Through their shared narrative of balancing family, nurturing a growing business, and fostering resilient communities, they hope to ignite a spark of inspiration in the hearts of those who attend.
At Waitika Farm, the sweetest rewards are not only found in the golden honey harvested from busy hives but also in the opportunity to sow seeds of empowerment and change.
With each step they take, Anil and Jean embody the transformative power of passion, proving that with dedication and heart, anything is possible.
The Women Entrepreneurs in Business Council is looking forward for another successful convention.
This year’s theme for the convention is, “Revitalize for Resilience: Fostering Inclusive Inspiration for All” underscores the event’s focus on rejuvenation and inclusivity.
This year, we have secured a lineup of eight sessions spanning across the two days.
Here’s what the session schedule looks like:
• EmpowerHER: Nurturing Women’s Leadership in the Public Sector;
• Breaking Barriers through Sports;
• Reality Check on Family Health Conversations;
• Changing the Game and Unlocking the Trailblazer;
• Reframing the Narrative in the Advancement of Women;
• Growing Businesses and Transforming Communities for Sustainability; and
• Inspiring Solutions for Future Success.
If you aren’t a member of WEBC or if your organisation isn’t a member of FCEF – please join and help us champion the course for employers and businesses in the work that we do.
For more information, please contact us on 3313188 or visit our office at 42 Gorrie St, Suva.