On most days, the smoke rising from Ratu Joni Kabulevu’s barbecue business KENZYS BBQ carries more than the aroma of grilled food, it reflects the journey and struggles behind his success.
For the 35-year-old entrepreneur from Vatani, Kaba in Bau, Tailevu, with maternal links to Drekena, Rewa, success has never been just about business. It has always been about people.
As his barbecue business continues to grow and expand into farming and chicken poultry, Ratu Joni remains deeply committed to giving back to the very communities that shaped him.
Through supporting youth initiatives and local sports in Nakasi, he is proving that entrepreneurship can go hand in hand with service.
“For me, community comes first,” he said.
“No matter how busy business gets, I always try to give back and be part of initiatives that bring people together. It’s about making time and remembering where you come from.”
Ratu Joni describes himself as a hardworking family man whose journey has been built through determination.
While many now see the success behind the business, he said the road to get there was far from easy.
“Starting out came with a lot of pressure financially, physically, and mentally.
“Balancing family responsibilities while trying to grow the business was not easy. There were times of doubt, but giving up was never an option.”
What began as a personal love for cooking slowly evolved into something bigger. Driven by passion and consistency, he turned a small beginning into a growing enterprise that has become known not only for its food, but for the care behind it.
“What makes my barbecue special is the heart behind it. Every meal is prepared with care, consistency, and a genuine passion to serve people. It’s not just about food; it’s about the experience and the love we put into every plate.”
But beyond the grills and business plans lies a deeper mission. Having experienced struggles himself, Ratu Joni said giving back comes naturally because he understands the importance of support and encouragement.
“I’ve seen and experienced struggles, so giving back is something that comes from the heart.
“If I can help uplift others, even in a small way, then I know I’m doing something right.”
One of the ways he and his family are making an impact is through supporting youth sports in their community.
Their recent financial assistance to Genesis Volleyball Club under the Nakasi Volleyball Youth Association offseason tournament reflects their belief in investing in young people.
“Our way of giving back to society starts in our Jerusalem, targeting youths in our vicinity through sports.”
For Ratu Joni, community is built on unity and collective growth.
“Community means unity and support. It’s about standing together, helping each other, and growing as one.”
His journey is also one deeply rooted in family. Behind the success of the business, he credits his wife as one of the driving forces who helped carry the vision through difficult times.
“She is one of the main pillars of this business. She has continuously pushed this business forward, never backing down even during the hardest times. She has a true love for serving customers, and that passion shows in everything we do.”
“I honestly couldn’t run this business alone without her support and strength.”
Together, the couple are now building toward a future that stretches beyond BBQ, with plans to expand into bigger catering opportunities while growing their farming and poultry ventures.
“I want my journey to inspire others, to show that no matter where you start, with hard work and determination you can build something meaningful.”
Despite the growth, Ratu Joni remains grounded in the values that shaped him.
He hopes the legacy he leaves behind will not simply be remembered through business success, but through the lives he touched along the way.
“I want to leave a legacy of hard work and giving back. To be remembered as someone who never gave up and always supported his people.”
“My family is my biggest motivation. They are the reason I keep pushing every single day.”
Every meal is prepared with care and consistency. Picture: SUPPLIED
