At 74 years old, Vilorina Tokasa Levu, known affectionately as Tokasa, is setting a remarkable example of financial independence as she continues to create handcrafted jewelry. Unlike many who may slow down in their later years, Tokasa embraces her passion, believing firmly in the importance of self-reliance, regardless of age.
Her journey in jewelry making began in 2013 during one of her many visits to Dubai, where she swiftly picked up this art. Today, her endeavors in crafting earrings, necklaces, and bracelets not only keep her mind engaged but also allow her to earn a modest income. Tokasa previously taught at the Fiji Crippled Children’s Society but chose to focus on raising her five children, all of whom are now well-established with families and careers of their own.
Over the years, Tokasa has honed her skills not just in jewelry but also in embroidery, flower arrangement, gardening, and selling pot plants. She meticulously structures her time, dedicating each week to different aspects of her crafts, whether it be jewelry production or flower arrangements. When urgent embroidery orders arise, such as pillowcase decorations, she prioritizes those to meet her customers’ needs.
On particularly good days, she can earn over $200 from her jewelry sales alone. Aware of her clients’ tastes, Tokasa emphasizes the significance of quality and fair pricing for her creations. She expresses concern about undervaluing handmade pieces, advocating for artisans to price their items according to the investment in materials and labor. In her view, jewelry sold in Australian markets commands much higher prices and she hopes her fellow local artisans can agree on a reasonable minimum price—at least $5 per pair of earrings—to reflect the true costs of their craft.
Tokasa encourages women, particularly those over the age of 70, to develop skills that can provide them with financial security and dignity as they age. She believes that with dedication and practice, women can create beautiful jewelry that rivals that found in stores.
In Tokasa’s perspective, her work transcends mere aesthetics; it is about embodying a sense of purpose that never truly retires. With each bead threaded and flower crafted, she is not just producing jewelry, but also securing a brighter, more empowered future for herself and inspiring others to follow her path.