Nima Naidu, a resident of Nadi, has beautifully transitioned from her previous role as a restaurant chef to flourishing as a talented florist, a change she has embraced with open arms. With roots in farming, her passion for plants and flowers is deeply ingrained, as both her father and in-laws have dedicated their lives to agriculture.
“I love blooming flowers,” Ms. Naidu passionately shared. “It’s my joy and something that I truly enjoy doing. Farming and planting run in our family’s genes.” After leaving her position at Tigers Restaurant in Lautoka, she discovered her artistic talent for flower arrangements five years ago, transforming her hobby into a rewarding business.
With her children now married and her new career thriving, Ms. Naidu finds fulfillment in her floral arrangements. “This is my source of income, and I’ve been making flower arrangements for the past five years. It keeps me happy and active,” she expressed.
Starting at a modest scale, she was motivated by the support of family and friends to turn her love for floristry into a commercially viable endeavor. Her dedication and creativity have not gone unnoticed; she has won three awards at various floral exhibitions, including one hosted by South Sea Orchids in Nadi. “I’m grateful to have participated in these shows,” she reflected.
Though she relishes the joy her flowers bring, Ms. Naidu faces challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions in Nadi, which can significantly affect her sales. Usually earning between $200 to $300 weekly, she can make as much as $1,000 during special events like flower shows.
A recent highlight of her journey was participating in the National Agriculture Show in Nadi, where her exceptional floral creations attracted considerable attention. “People love buying my flowers,” she stated, her pride shining through. She believes that the beauty and fragrance of her flowers not only uplift her spirits but also spread joy throughout her community.
Ms. Naidu’s journey mirrors a growing trend among women in Fiji who are turning their passions into means of support for their families, simultaneously fostering a sense of independence. Whether through floristry, farming, or other ventures, these women embody resilience and creativity, leading to positive transformations in their lives and communities. As Ms. Naidu continues to flourish in her career, her story stands as a testament to the power of dedication and passion.