Being a single mother has not been easy for Katherine Evans, but she has proven that anything is possible.
The Macuata woman, who runs various businesses including the family farm in Seaqaqa, has been able to put her three children to school through her own initiatives.
She lives on the farm at Seaqaqa and plants various root crops, vegetables and helps her son with poultry farming.
Apart from her farm activities, Katherine also has a jewellery, pickles, chutneys and food parcel business.
She has been a businesswoman for more than a decade and her income has seen her children through school and also enabled her to attend to other financial obligations.
“I also own a property in Labasa which consist of two flats and a house so my two flats are on rent,” Ms Evans said.
“The house is only used when we travel to Labasa for business purpose or to clean up.
“Income from the monthly rent has also supported us over past years and I believe there is no reason for poverty if we work hard.”
Her day begins at 4am when she prepares food parcel, pickles and jam.
She owns a stall in Seaqaqa and her tent has become a popular stopover for daily commuters along the Seaqaqa Highway.
“It takes a lot of commitment and dedication especially waking up early in the morning to start my day.
“My two older sons have their own businesses while my daughter, who is the youngest, is in Year 12.
“Whatever income I have received either from my business or rent has gone towards my various payments.”
Recently, Ms Evans expanded her vegetable farm through the FNPF COVID-19 assistance.
“That was a big help because our small vegetable farm which I started when I moved to Seaqaqa last year has grown.
“For my parcel business, I sell it at $5 each with a free bottle of juice so I can attract customers and it has worked out well so far.
“I have also learnt that presentation is very important so I always make sure to arrange my parcel in such a way to attract customers.”
Jewellery which she makes at home has also attracted a good number of customers.
She believes in creativity to suit her customers’ tastes of fashion.
“We need to move with time and fashion so I always create my jewellery according to customers’ needs.
“Something good about being a businesswoman is that I don’t answer to anyone and I get to be self-employed and that’s the best part.”
