WHY pay for entire workspaces month in, month out when you can just rent it only for as long as you need it?
One company that is now providing people with that option is Nadi-based mydesk, founded by director of Eventuros Fiji Pte Dipti Sharma.
The start-up was launched three years ago and has since made inroads into the co-working space, generating awareness on what it has to offer in terms of providing flexibility and networking.
“mydesk is more than just a coworking space,” Ms Sharma said in an interview with this newspaper.
“It’s a community hub that fosters innovation, collaboration, and productivity. We provide flexible workspaces, high-speed internet, modern amenities, and a vibrant community of like-minded professionals.”
By offering a professional and inspiring environment, mydesk has revolutionized the way people work in Fiji, Ms Sharma added.
“We’ve challenged the traditional 9-to-5 office model, empowering individuals and businesses to work more efficiently and creatively.
“Our spaces have become a catalyst for new ideas, partnerships, and business opportunities.
“It has become popular for tourist as well who are here in Fiji for work and vacation.”
In the three years since its establishment, mydesk according to Ms Sharma, has grown its membership base and its online presence, garnering a strong social media following and a user-friendly website.
It has also expanded its services to include virtual office solutions and event hosting for smaller groups.
“The idea for mydesk was born from a desire to create a more flexible and inspiring work environment in Fiji. We saw the potential to tap into the growing demand for coworking spaces and remote work options,” Ms Sharma said.
“One of the biggest challenges in the early stages was raising awareness about the concept of coworking.
“Many people were unfamiliar with the benefits of shared workspaces. To overcome this, we focused on building relationships with local businesses, hosting events, and offering free trials to potential members.
“Over the past three years, we’ve faced challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic fluctuations.
“However, we’ve adapted to these challenges by implementing safety protocols, offering virtual membership options, and providing flexible payment plans.”
While remote work or work flexibility is hardly a culture in Fiji, Ms Sharma said things are beginning to change.
“The current work culture in Fiji is slowly embracing flexibility, but there’s still room for improvement,” she said.
“Encouraging remote work, flexible hours, and hybrid work models would further empower businesses and individuals. A more flexible work culture would undoubtedly benefit companies like mydesk and foster innovation and productivity.”
Describing the last three years as “an incredible journey”, Ms Sharma is braced to take the company through another fulfilling three years.
“We envision mydesk as a leading provider of flexible workspaces in Fiji. We plan to expand our network of locations, enhance our member experience, and introduce new services such as wellness programs and professional development workshops,” she said.
NOTE: This article was first published in the print version of the Fiji Times dated December 21, 2024.
