After attaining knowledge and experience through the short course in baking and pâtisserie at the Fiji National University’s (FNU) National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC), Gina Reyes Evangelista has established a bakery in Ba called GCakes and Sweets Delight.

The 54-year-old, originally from the Philippines, came to Fiji in 2012 with her husband, Dr Joel Evangelista, who is working as an Operational Manager in Rooster Poultry in Navau, Ba. Initially, the move to Fiji was solely for job purposes however, she eventually settled in Fiji and later chose to start her own business.

“Fiji is a beautiful place with friendly people, and I fell in love with the nation and its culture, so I decided to try my hand at baking and pâtisserie. I was able to obtain information on the classes, and there was no turning back for me after that. I joined NTPC, and I was lucky to gain the qualification and experience at the same time,” she said.

“I reside in Ba and had to go to Nadi four times a week for theoretical and practical training. I’m delighted I made it in a foreign country, and now I’m giving it back to the country and its people, who have shown us love and made us feel at home.”

“Now that we have dual citizenship, we want to develop our business and hire additional workers to help us meet the demands of the customers. I was inspired to establish the firm by a friend, and it was then that I decided to pursue academic qualifications so that I could deliver the greatest services and goods to my loyal consumers.”

She expressed her desire to create a similar business in the Philippines, citing her expertise and knowledge of baking and pâtisserie.

“With time, I have gained knowledge and learned about other recipes and items that may become famous in the Philippines. This is a long-term ambition that is a part of my company’s plan, and hopefully, it will become a reality one day.”

Life, according to Evangelista, is about discovering new things along the way.

She emphasised that “one should always be prepared to sail into uncharted seas, to encounter hurdles, and to have the patience to convert those obstacles into accomplishments,” she said.

“By doing so, you will be able to identify your strengths and flaws, and you will be able to become a better and more successful person. I never imagined that one day I would launch a business in another country.”

“I am grateful to the people for their love and support, and it is because of their encouraging words that I have been able to go above and beyond in life. If you believe you are too small to overcome challenges, you have never tried and will never achieve your full potential.”

Students who wish to pursue a short course in baking and patisserie or any other courses at FNU’s National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) are encouraged to contact the NTPC via email info.ntpc@fnu.ac.fj or mobile +679 2417779.