WHAT started as a love for baking has grown into Sue Sweet Treats, a home-based cake business run by Labasa mother of three, Susana Nasova.
She creates beautiful birthday and wedding cakes, sharing joy and sweetness with her community.
But behind her cakes is a story of hard work, family, and determination.
Originally from Batiri Village, with family links to Vunivutu, Macuata, Susana grew up in a family of nine.
Life wasn’t always easy, and money was tight, but her home was full of love and laughter.
As a child, she spent school holidays and weekends helping her mother sell fried fish, cassava, and other food at the market.
Those experiences taught her the value of hard work and perseverance.
“Being at the market with my mum taught me strength, sacrifice, and the joy of giving through food,” she said.
Life became even harder when she lost her mother in 2008.
Her father became her anchor, supporting her as she navigated challenges.
Becoming a mother for the first time brought more pressure.
Raising a child alone, dealing with grief, financial struggles, and continuing her education felt overwhelming.
“I was scared and unsure if I could do it. But I refused to give up for my child,” she said.
With determination and the support of her father and siblings, Susana worked multiple jobs and returned to school.
She studied tourism and hospitality at Fiji National University, then completed an aged-care Level 4 course at Pacific Technical Institute in 2024.
Today, she works full-time as an assistant trainer for adult and social care at the institute, helping train the next generation of caregivers.
Alongside her career, Susana runs Sue Sweet Treats.
Baking gives her a creative outlet and allows her to make others happy through her cakes.
“Baking is my passion. Every cake is made with love,” she said.
Balancing work, motherhood, studies, and her business is not easy, but Susana says her struggles have made her stronger.
She hopes to show her children that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, no matter where you start in life.
She also wants to continue growing in her career, expand her baking business, and provide a stable, happy life for her children while honouring her parents’ legacy.
To anyone facing challenges, Susana’s advice is not to lose hope.
“Life is tough, but you are stronger than you think. Lean on your family, trust yourself, and take small steps toward your dreams. Education and perseverance can change your life at any age.
“Treasure your loved ones, they will lift you through the hard times.”
From selling food at the market to teaching caregivers and creating beautiful cakes, her story shows that with love, hard work, and determination, even the toughest beginnings can lead to success.
