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SPBD

MEET THE MEMBER:
MAKELESI SATALA – NAMOLI VOU CENTRE

Can you please introduce yourself?
My name is Makelesi Naulu Satala. I’m 44 years old. I’m from
the Namoli Vou Centre of the Senilagakali Group in Lautoka.
When did you join SPBD Fiji?
I first joined SPBD Fiji in 2013.
What kind of business do you run?
I run multiple businesses; I do pastry, foodpack selling and
catering. I enjoy what I do as it keeps me busy and motivated.
My husband helps too when needed, so I have a good support
system.
What kind of customers do you usually serve?
Usually business people and medical staff, nurses from
Lautoka hospital – most of them order in trays. Plus
customers here in the village, they also buy in trays. I sell
my food packs online through Facebook, posting online and
through Facebook messenger. Some also order birthday
cakes.
What loan cycle are you currently on?
I’m currently on my 5th loan cycle with SPBD Fiji.
How has joining SPBD Fiji helped you and your family?

It has been a big help, to me personally and to my family. I am
able learn how to save, how to spend money wisely, to support
my children’s education properly, the renovation of our home
and extension of our family home. My husband and I do Makelesi Satala with her fresh bake.
not have formal employment, so it helps with the children’s
education, buying school stationery etc. The returns I get from they are very loyal and I’m grateful for their support. Some of
my businesses also go towards community obligations. We our members wanted to drop out and I talked them out of it. I
bought goods to furnish our home. I plan to buy some land encouraged them to stay with SPBD because they won’t find
because of my children, and a cow too in the near future. this kind of opportunity anywhere else. You learn a lot with
What are some challenges you face while running your SPBD Fiji, especially women like us.
businesses? Do you have any advice for women planning or thinking
about joining SPBD Fiji?
There are too many to mention. When there is a death in the
family or village, we have to give our share of contribution, They should join. I know that it may be a challenge for some
so part of that contribution comes from the profits I make. but yes, they should join. And when it comes to running a
Another thing would be competition from other businesses business, it all depends on you. Stay honest and committed.
here. It is a challenge but I try to find ways to navigate through Use your time wisely. They won’t regret joining SPBD Fiji
it by finding new methods or offerings. You can’t have two because I don’t. They can be their own boss, be able to spend
or three people selling the same thing in the same area. For a lot of time with their children, and at the same time, have
my catering business, I offer the best in quantity and quality, time to take a good rest. Know that your business will not only
because I understand how important my customers are, and contribute to your family’s livelihood but also positively to
what they paid for - I think some caterers lack this. I think your village and empower other women around you.
that is one of the best ways to keep them coming back to me,

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