Empowering Women Micro-Entrepreneurs in the Pacific: A Q&A with Mereoni Naikanitoba

October 1, 2025

Assorted beaded necklaces in white, cream, black, and gold on display busts.

As part of UNDP’s Supplier Development Programme, we are pleased to feature inspiring entrepreneurs who are making a meaningful impact in their communities through creativity, resilience, and sustainable practices.

In this edition, we introduce Mereoni Naikanitoba, founder of Mereoni’s Creation and Sweet Fragrances, based in Suva, Fiji.

A dedicated single mother whose entrepreneurial spirit was shaped early in life, Mereoni was raised in a household where self-reliance was key. She dreamed of becoming a business owner from a young age, and although she pursued a career in education, she has since retired from teaching and is now focused on growing her own business making jewellery using freshwater pearls.

In this Q&A, Mereoni shares her story, her aspirations, and her vision for a more sustainable and inclusive Pacific.

Portrait of a person wearing a bright pink and yellow patterned shirt against a light wall. — Mereoni Naikanitoba.

Tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to start your business.

I’m a single mum. Growing up, my father taught us to plant and grow our own food, and my mom was very good at baking and cooking. When my dad passed away while I was still a little girl, my mom didn’t see that as an excuse not to provide for us, even though my dad was a teacher and the sole breadwinner at the time. I learned enterprising skills from my mother, as she would cook and bake to sell, and my siblings and I would help her. Being a business owner has been my dream from a very young age. Even though I went to university and trained to be a teacher, I taught in Fiji and Nauru for a number of years before retiring and now focus on growing my business.

2. What values or vision guide your business?

I would say my business is guided by the Christian values and beliefs I was brought up with. These values continue to carry me and my family, helping us stay grounded and work towards the dreams we have always had.

3. What makes your business unique compared to others?

There are a few businesses in Fiji that sell freshwater pearls, and what really matters is how you assemble them. For me, I have a unique skill in crafting each product in a way that ensures both my clients and I are satisfied when they see and purchase the final piece.

4. What is your vision for the future of your business?

My vision for my business is to travel around the world and gain valuable ideas that will help me expand it. I also hope to grow my business enough to have my own dedicated space or shop where I can run it independently.

5. How do you see your work contributing to a more sustainable Pacific?

Knowledge sharing between women, especially single mothers, on how we can boost income generation in our households and families that are single-handedly led by women.