In a remarkable departure from their renowned achievements in the boxing arena, the Raiwalui family has embarked on a new journey into the world of fashion.
On Saturday, January 18, 1992, The Fiji Times reported the eagerly anticipated grand opening of Raiwalui’s latest venture, Buy Well, nestled on the bustling Toorak Rd in Suva.
The unveiling of Buy Well sparked a palpable buzz among customers, drawn in by the promise of eclectic fashion offerings with a distinct Pacific flair.
Led by Rusiate Raiwalui’s enterprising 23-year-old son Pete and his equally dynamic sister Sofi, 24, Buy Well represented a significant pivot for the family’s business endeavours.
Reflecting on the inception of their latest venture, Mr Raiwalui shared insights into the family’s entrepreneurial spirit with The Fiji Times.
“We initially tested the waters with a six-month trial run of the business from the comfort of our own home,” he disclosed
“Following its success, we sought support from the Fiji Development Bank, who graciously extended a loan to facilitate our expansion.”
Beyond the realm of commerce, the establishment of Buy Well underscored the Raiwalui family’s commitment to youth empowerment through their Raiwalui Youth Development project.
The article included Pete Raiwalui articulation on the project’s ethos, stating, “Recognising the innate artistic talents of our fellow Fijians, we envisioned a platform where creativity and entrepreneurship converged.” Pete’s sentiments echoed the resilience and resourcefulness ingrained in the family’s ethos.
“Our goal extended beyond mere commerce; we aspired to demonstrate to young men the transformative power of initiative and creativity,” he said.
“Through colaborative efforts, we engaged youths in painting and screen-printing clothing, fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance.”
Highlighting the collaborative nature of Buy Well’s creative process, Pete shared, “I collaborated with two other designers, along with a team of six talented youths, to craft our distinctive clothing line.”
As the Raiwalui family continued to chart new territories, their venture into the fashion industry served as a testament to their unwavering commitment to innovation and community upliftment.
