From challenges to triumph, Sonia’s inspiring journey
MEET Sonia Lata Chand, a seasoned professional with over 24 years of success in the hospitality and food industry. She owns Rasoi Restaurant located at Gurbachan Singh Mall in Labasa Town.
Specialising in Chinese and Indian cuisine, the restaurant also delights patrons with various cakes and pastries.
No one believed Sonia’s business would thrive when she initially began with only four staff, facing the challenge of repaying loans. Despite the odds, Sonia now leads a committed team of 16 staff members, guaranteeing exceptional service.
Sonia is also one MSME that will be attending the MSME Conference on March 7-8.
“Along my 24 years of journey in the hospitality and food industry, I experienced a lot of challenges such as being forced to change the location of the restaurant and then paying a lot of money to start the business again. I continued even if it meant starting from scratch,” she said.
Sonia expressed great satisfaction in life, stating that through her journey, she has employed a lot of people, who have either started their own businesses, migrated, or become successful housewives, cooking delicious meals.
Sonia credits her cooking skills to her late mother. She emphasises the importance of balancing responsibilities toward her father and children for her success. Managing the restaurant’s demanding schedule seven days a week, she openly recognises the challenges of meeting customer expectations, especially during festive seasons. Sonia expresses gratitude for the unwavering support from both her friends and staff.
Sonia is a recipient of the Business Link Pacific (BLP) Business Support Grant. She received a grant of $14,000. She will soon be opening her second branch in Damodar City in Labasa, and she will use the grant money to buy three food warmers, a high-pressure stove and groceries in stock. BLP/BAF also assisted Sonia in preparing the financial statements for her business for the years 2021 and 2022. The financial statements were prepared by one of the BAF/BLP Business Advisory Service Providers, HLB Mann Judd.
“I wish to continue this venture and serve my customers, and I am thankful to BLP/BAF for their assistance,” she said.
She encouraged MSMEs to visit the BAF office if they require any assistance or guidance regarding their business.