FORMER flight attendant Vitila Vuniwaqa chooses to remain optimistic despite a stroke in 2010 rendering her partially disabled.
Ms Vuniwaqa is originally from Lovu, Gau with maternal links to Taveuni.
“I used to be a flight attendant with Air Pacific, now Fiji Airways. In 2010, I collapsed, and I had to learn to walk and talk again,” she said.
Despite this, Ms Vuniwaqa persistently worked towards finding an alternative source of income using her basic know how of the tourism industry.
“In the beginning, I said no, I must come out of it. It’s a journey. A journey (that) is a part of my story.”
At present she owns a farm in Sabeto where she does be farming, hikes and tours.
Ms Vuniwaqa said she runs her businesses with the assistance of her family.
Her businesses have been operational for seven years.
“I have those products, lemongrass repellent oil, lemongrass lip balm and natural cream for your face, scars.”
Ms Vuniwaqa said her primary markets are locals and tourists.
“I also have partners with Rosie Tours. Every day, a guest comes at 3:30, (spends) half an hour and a little bit of a story. I get them to tour the bees (farm) and all the plants.”
Ms Vuniwaqa said she has already set her sights on future tourism projects.
“In December 16 last year I went to Gau, Lovu for the first time. I absolutely loved it. Hopefully, I will be getting a project for a resort in Gau.”
Ms Vuniwaqa urged other women who wish to enter the same field of work to pursue their passion.
