Using traditional means to create modern artifacts and jewellery is not only something unique but one that takes a lot of time and patience to perfect. The outcome on the other hand provides customers something extraordinary to marvel at and appreciate.

Such is the story of Taito Lawakele who owns and operates Vanua Clay (Fiji) a contemporary business which is gradually making waves in the local business community.

As the name suggests, Lawakele creates souvenirs and jewellery from soil, more specifically clay.

Using clay to create pottery can be dated back to early times and in Fiji and the Pacific there have been traces of pottery which have been attributed to the Lapita People.

Lawakele, an illustrious alumni of the Fiji National University (FNU) uses the traditional knowledge passed down many generations fusing this with modern trends and creating a unique line of products which are much sought after by local and foreigners alike.

Lawakele started his company in April 2015 and operates the 100% Fijian family-owned local business from his home in Votualevu, Nadi.  The authenticity of Vanua Clay products which promotes ancient and traditional art of the Fijian people, Lawakele says, is the cornerstone of his business principal.

Although he is a successful businessman today, Lawakele faced many hardships including financial difficulties while growing up.  As a result of this he did not think too much about the career he was going to have in the future. 

The one thing he did know was that he wanted to do something different and pursue an avenue that a lot of people would not choose. “I chose areas that not a lot of people were interested in as I knew these would provide me with a better chance at gaining employment”, he said.

Tertiary Life and Starting Business

Lawakele completed a Diploma in Business from the FNU’s former Fiji Institute of Technology (FIT) in 2008.

He stated that he learnt quite a lot during his studies at FIT which has helped him in his business too. “FIT taught me budgeting and time management – both of which are essential skills to run a business.” 

“We had an opportunity to buy a business that already had family employed in it.  That gave birth to the idea that contemporary clay is something not tapped into in Fiji, so it was an opportunity which was different, and something worth trying.  It intrigued me”, he said.

With this thought, he and his wife set afoot on a new journey. The initial stages were quite difficult. “Getting the funds for the startup was tough. We finally managed to get the green light from the Fiji Development Bank,” he added.  Despite the challenges, they were able to succeed with the immense support from family. “It was a joint effort.” 

As with all start-ups, there was a lot to do.  “There were so many things involved and we did not know a lot of things. We wish we had known how hard it would be to start any business – the necessary forms to fill, places to go, money to pay, the time frame it takes before you can commence business etc. We wish we knew people who could help us ‘break into the market’. We also needed for people to help us with the book work, packaging, etc,” said Lawakele. 

Preserving knowledge  

The business began with his wife and him on the ground with some family members lending a hand.  It was clear from the beginning that this venture was not the usual make and sell approach.  One of its main objectives was to promote and preserve culture. 

Driven by this approach Lawakele and his team are driven to create products which are inspired by nature and the environment around them.  It is not uncommon to see their pieces of art depicting symbols of the Fijian culture as well. 

One of the traditions about art is that the learned one passes on the skill to the younger generation and Lawakele practices and encourages this by holding holiday classes for school children.  During these classes children get the opportunity use water and earth and design pieces using either their hands or moulds.  These classes allow them to have fun, be creative and learn – taking something tangible with them when they leave.   

Thus, in addition to promoting locally made products, the business also conserves traditional knowledge. 

Words of Wisdom

Lawakele appreciates that there were numerous people in his life who inspired him.  He still has close friendships with his former classmates from FIT days. 

“There are many people who came into our lives to build us up to where we are today.  I had good Lecturers at FNU and later met people such as Moira Solvalu of 8 Mountains, Stephen Buksh of Honey Dew.  Then there are our family members who are our best models and marketing agents,” he said.

Through his experiences he has learnt to never give up.  This has led him to where he is today. 

He believes that life is a learning curve and that one must listen and learn from it. 

“Nothing is easy in life, so be prepared for many road humps in the journey,” he added.  Lawakele is a case which demonstrates that life is a teacher and one can be successful if they are determined. 

“Never give up, no matter how hard the situation. There is always light at the end of the tunnel, and you will get to that light at some point in time.”