By Ema Ganivatu
For over 40 years, a 64-year-old i-Taukei craftswoman has captivated buyers, tourists, and locals with her beautifully crafted handmade products, earning admiration for her timeless skills and creativity.
This year, Lanieta Raratabu, who traveled from Waimalua Settlement in Serea, Naitasiri, was one of the women participating in the National Craft Exhibition in Suva.
“I am truly grateful for this opportunity, where we as women, young mothers, grandmothers, and most importantly, as bearers of our culture and traditions, can come together to showcase what defines us, our identity, our heritage, and the God-given talents that empower us to
create and contribute,” she told Fiji Traveller.
After working as sugarcane farmers in Seaqaqa, Raratabu’s family moved to Suva to educate their two children.
“My husband and I didn’t earn much, so I decided to take on a side job to help out. This is what led to where we are today, and believe it or not, it’s now our only source of income,” she explains.
“There is so much we can accomplish as women with the resources and surroundings we have.”
“With a single frond of a coconut tree, I earned $150.”
She now encourages other women to pursue this path and to persevere.
“There will be many challenges along the way, but that shouldn’t stop you from continuing. I am a living testament to this.”
Today, apart from selling at exhibitions and hotels, Raratabu accepts orders from customers.
Her work has reached the international stage.
“I am honored to have represented Fiji and been part of the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture in Hawaii,” she adds.
As tradition meets innovation, there is a promising future for Fijian crafts, as seen in the inspiring story of Lanieta Raratabu.
Raratabu scooped a few awards at last week’s exhibition.
∙Traditional Section/ Traditional Weaving – Traditional i-Taukei Fan
∙Contemporary Section Adornment – Meeting Satchel
∙Contemporary Section Home & Leisure – Shopping Basket
∙Contemporary Section Adornment – Basket
“Use your talent”
Another artisan and prizewinner at the National Craft Exhibition was 40-year-old Salanieta Leweniqila, who resides in Nadawa.
She is married with 4 children.
“I run a business making cushions, bed sheets, quilted bed covers, curtains, tea holders, and much more,” she told Fiji Traveller.
Lewaniqila worked for the government but resigned during the pandemic.
Now she is a full-time businesswoman, participating in exhibitions, and is a member of the Fijian Made products initiative, where she sells her items overseas.
Lewaniqila says her business means she always has money on hand when needed, rather than relying on her husband’s payday.
Like Raratabu, she encourages women to use their talents, turn them into businesses, and so earn an income.
“We are good at so many things, so use your talent because it will be valuable in the future.”
