Faizal Ali is a popular face in the country’s sugar industry.

Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) media publication officer, Mr Ali has a decade of experience in the industry.

He can be described as a go-getter and a person seeking adventure wherever he goes.

The 30-year-old joined the institute as an IT Technician and since then has expanded his skills, leading to significant contributions to SRIF.

Mr Ali has a diploma in TV and Film Production from Edenz College in New Zealand.

He also has a diploma in IT (Networking) from New South Wales Institute of Technology in Australia.

READ MORE FROM LET’S GO LOCAL:
LET’S GO LOCAL: VANUA LEVU TOPS MELI MAIVUSAROKO’s FIJI TRAVEL LIST

LET’S GO LOCAL: MERE RAKOROI’S RAKIRAKI FIJI SECRET 

LET’S GO LOCAL: MARRIOTT, CLOUD 9 GANDHI’S FAVOURITES 

What Are Your Hobbies?
I enjoy listening to music, watching movies, socialising, and playing soccer.

Aerial view of Namena Marine Reserve and Coral Reefs, Namena Island, southeast of Vanua Levu.

How Many Places In Fiji Have You Been To?
I have been around both Viti Levu and Vanua Levu – I haven’t been to the outer islands yet.

Tavoro Falls, Taveuni.

What Is The One Spot in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?
Taveuni, simply because it is the Garden Island of Fiji.

Chicken wrap and fries from Chilli Tree Cafe in Lautoka.

What is your favourite spot for a pie or coffee in Fiji, and why?
Chilli Tree Café in Lautoka.

It not only has a good environment to sit with your friends, but also has friendly staff.

Their expansive menus are also great – along with their coffee.

Blue Ginger Café & Deli in Lautoka has nice coffee and pastries.

Fiji Port Denarau Marina with Superyachts.

What is your favourite backyard spot, and why?
Port Denarau.

The environment is great and beautiful.

Ocean view villas in Royal Davui Island Resort.

What is the one spot in Fiji on the top of your bucket list, and why?
Royal Davui Island Resort in Beqa Lagoon.

The resort seems beautiful with excellent facilities.

So I would definitely love to visit it someday..

Feedback: shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj

Lautoka residents can enjoy Al Hamd’s handpicked, quality furniture and lighting with the opening of its fifth store yesterday.

Director Ashfaaq Khan said the company was committed to provide optimal customer service with the $250,000 investment.

He said the opening was propelled by increasing demands of Al Hamd products by customers.

“We are trying to reach customers ourselves, rather than them having to reach us,” Mr Khan said.

He said Al Hamd recognised customer needs and remained committed to meet their demands.

“Customers are now aware of the quality of products and that’s where we come in to fulfill their demand.

“Our products are handpicked from factories which means quality products at affordable prices.”

Employment

The new Al Hamd store has employed five fresh staff members.

“Many of these staff were working for business houses before COVID-19 hit.

“Some of them have been unemployed for the past six months.”

Mr Khan said along with providing furniture and lighting to customers, Al Hamd was committed to provide employment opportunities to the public.

“Even at the onset of COVID, we had all our staff members employed.

“We had engaged them in other projects to keep them employed in the company.

“It is our responsibility to ensure our employees have food on the table,” Mr Khan said.

Expansion plans

Mr Khan said there were plans to open an outlet in Vitogo Parade, Lautoka.

People of Nadi can expect another Al Hamd store opening next Tuesday in Nadi.

This expansion is propelled by the vision to reach out to as many people as the company can, Mr Khan said.

Opening hours

• Monday to Friday: 8 am to 5 pm.
• Saturday: 8 am to 2 pm.

Feedback shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj

The Greenhouse Coworking, a locally owned media and production house, has launched its services in Suva.

Lead by a female team, the Greenhouse Coworking is Fiji’s first full-service virtual and in-person coworking community.

The Greenhouse Coworking is an extension of Greenhouse Studio, a multi-disciplinary creative design and communications studio that was born in 2014.

The Greenhouse Studio has partnered with the Market Development Facility, to launch Greenhouse Coworking.

Investment

Greenhouse Coworking, is the result of the combined $250,000 investment, and work of the whole Greenhouse team.

The business is located at 33 Des Voeux Road.

Greenhouse Coworking is offering 50 per cent off membership subscription for the first 10 members who sign up.

Under the Work-From-Home Grow membership, members get their membership fees forfeited for the first month.

The company is also offering specials which include Free Day Pass, Book A Tour, and events space and meeting rooms for hire.

For a walk-in fee of $35, interested parties can co-work for a full day.

The team at Greenhouse Coworking have a combined 35 years’ experience in communications, marketing, design, social media, logistics, productions and event management.

Its members include:

• community manager Lana Smith,
• community and studio coordinator Natasha Ram.
• Managing director Karen Fong.
• Founder Maria Ronna Luna Pastorizo-Sekiguchi.

Feeedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

Elizabeth Grace is passionate about helping as many people as she can. Aggie Global head of commu­nity, Ms Grace has been working with the farmers since 2016.

“With Aggie Global, my area of focus is agriculture and community develop­ment,” she said.

“I engage with all types of farmers, find out what produce/products they have to offer, bring them onboard with us on our digital platform.

“I then create communities of these farmers; such as cluster for tomatoes, herbs, prawns, lime and more.”

She described her job as impactful.

“I am an agent for the farmers and my aim is to help them grow, sell and im­prove,” she said.

Aggie Global is a social business con­necting local farmers to various lo­cal and overseas markets through their website.

What are some of your hobbies?

Besides sketching, I got into writing poems this lockdown – hoping to participate in a poetry slam.

I’ve also become a plant hoard­er.

I have collected 77 indoor house plants.

How many places in Fiji have you been to?

I love my Viti Levu, and have been all around it.

I have visited Savusavu and Taveuni and a few islands in the Mamanucas and Ya­sawas.

What is the one place you would take every visitor to, and why?

The dams up in the Nausori Highlands in Nadi.

The view from there took my breath away.

What is your favourite place for a pie/coffee and why?

Bulacinno Cafe in Namaka, Nadi.

They have an outdoor sitting area at the back. It has a cozy setting, you can’t feel the hustle and bustle of world when there.

Great coffee and pie.

What is your favourite secret backyard spot, and why?

I live behind the golf course in Lautoka.

You get the best sunset view from there.

Lautoka Golf Course.

What is the one spot in Fiji that is on the top of your bucket list?

My stay in Taveuni was short but sweet.

I want to go back there, discover and swim in the waterfalls.

Tavoro waterfall in Taveuni

Feedback: shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj

Elrico Munoz has dedicated his life helping people.

Mr Munoz is the general manager of the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD).

Through SPBD, he has managed to help many women throughout the country to start their own business.

“Being part of SPBD is a dream job because ever since I graduated from university, it was always about me helping out people.”

“Before, I worked with different non-governmental organisations (NGO’s) and government agencies, but I find it less challenging,” he said.

Mr Munoz was born and raised in the Philippines and has worked in the Pacific region for more than 20 years now.

He has worked in Pacific Island Countries like Vanuatu, Samoa, Tonga and Fiji. For the last 10 years, Mr Munoz has been working in Fiji and two years ago he became a Fijian citizen.

Mr Munoz is married and has two children.

How Many Places In Fiji Have You Been To?
I have visited many places in Fiji.

In the interiors of Namosi to Rakiraki and I have been to Yasawas island, Taveuni island, Moturiki Island, Rabi and Rotuma. I have been to Ovalau many times.

I usually venture to those areas where most tourists don’t go and are hard to reach.

Namosi Eco Retreat offers 10 bures in the highlands of Namosi.

What Is The One Place In Fiji You Would Take Every Visitor To, And Why?
I would like them to visit the picturesque villages of Namosi Koro and Wainimakatu in the interiors of Namosi Highlands.

It will take about three hours via rough roads to reach these villages.

But, when you reach there, you will be amazed by the beautiful scenery.

You will get to see different farms such as dalo and ginger farms.

Although it’s rural, at the same time you will get to experience the wonders of nature, the smiles of the people as they welcome you with bowls of kava and with different native delicacies, the kokoda.

Pies from Mana Coffee.

What Is Your Favourite Place For A Pie Or Coffee, And Why?
My favourite place for pie and coffee is Mana Coffee.

I love this café because they offer fusion Fijian foods and it is also a good place to have meetings.

They also have a kava bar.

Nasese foreshore. Photo: Shreya Kumar.

What Is Your Favourite Secret Backyard Spot?
My favourite secret backyard spot is Nasese seawall.

Before, I used to go for a walk there and meet people.

Sometimes, I go to Nasese seawall with my wife and during the COVID-19 pandemic that was the only place people could visit to feel the breeze.

The Nasese seawall is really peaceful, especially late in the afternoon.

It is a nice place to be.

A beachfront in Taveuni.

What is the one place in Fiji that is on the top of your bucket list?
I will be going to Taveuni Island very soon.

I have been to Taveuni once but I really want to spend more time on the island.

I want to explore the waterfalls and go up to the mountains to see the Tagimoucia flower which blooms only in December.

Tavoro Falls, Taveuni.

Feedback: shahani.mala@fijisun.com.fj

Organising events and marketing activities led Atelaite Cama to visit most places in Fiji.

Ms Cama is the marketing consultant for Gloria Jean’s outlet in Damodar City, Suva.

“My work life background is in Marketing, specifically in events management and production spanning across 20 years.”

“My events management background brought me the experiences of working for big international standard concerts like Lucky Dube, the UB40 Fiji Tour 2006, two Fiji Tours of Soweto Gospel Choir, four self-produced Lau Islands tradeshows and many other events and unique marketing activities to date,” she said.

Ms Cama hails from Malaka village on Vanuabalavu in Lau Group.

“I also take part in a lot of community work for my island home of Vanuabalavu, being part of the Vanuabalavu Working Group, Vanuabalavu Festival Committee and lately for our province the Bula ko Lau Fundraising Committee in response to COVID-19,” she said.

Lau group of Islands. Source: https://pacificislandliving.com

How many places in Fiji have you been to?
I have been able to set foot in every single inhabited Lau Group – that accounts for 18 islands in the group, I’ve been to parts of the Lomaiviti Group, the Yasawa’s – Yaqeta Island, Turtle Island, Tavewa Island and Nacula island, in Vanualevu I have been to Taveuni, Kioa and Rabi which also includes mainland Vanualevu and Viti Levu.

Yasawa Group of Islands. Source: https://offgoesannie.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/DJI_0097.jpg

What is the one place in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?
Visitors can be categorised into two:

First type are the visitors who love the off beaten track I would like them to visit Yavusa Waitui’s Qilaqila in Vanuabalavu.

The place can be visited in two ways either by a superyacht if you’re one of the world’s filthy rich people or if you’re a friend of a local of Vanuabalavu.

The second type are visitors who love a hotel/resort with the beautiful beach, great food with local infusion and good people and vibe as staff – this would have to be Navutu Stars Resort on Yaqeta Island in the Yasawas.

Gloria Jeans Damodar City, Suva. Photo: Leon Lord.

What is your favorite place for a pie or coffee, and why?
My favourite place to meet friends, relax, unwind, and have a coffee and pie would be Damodar City’s Gloria Jean’s.

Firstly, the vibe in the cafe is a good one and is welcoming of people from all walks of life and all age groups, second the hot/cold drinks, pies, cakes, salads, and local seafood platter is reasonably priced and absolutely delicious.

Vanuabalavu Lau.

What is your favorite secret backyard spot?
An island in Vanuabalavu called Naruarua.

Laucala Island Resort is taking the trend one step further and offering a buyout that includes not just exclusive access to your own personal paradise, but also chartered flights aboard Fiji Airways’ new Airbus A350 – so you can satisfy your inner aviation geek while also indulging in one of the world’s most extravagant getaways. Photo: Forbes

What is the one place in Fiji that is on the top of your bucket list?
Laucala Island

Feedback: shahani.mala@fijisun.com.fj

Sahil Shifaan Ali can cook up a meal in a swift.

The Tanoa Plaza Hotel in Suva head chef is originally from Tavua.

“I was born and raised by my very hardworking parents, my dad Yunus Ali and my mom Rukshana Shabnam in Tavua.”

“I have two beautiful sisters.”

“I have been the head chef at Tanoa Plaza for the last two years and I love working here.”

Tanoa Hotel Group has been popular with their food offers.

Under the guidance of Sarjheel Singh, Executive Chef at Tanoa International Hotel, the group’s Culinary Team are working on enhancing their top five most selling dishes.

This is so that the look, feel, and taste remains consistent for all its guests across all Tanoa Hotels in Fiji.

At Tanoa Plaza, Fisherman’s Basket is a hit on Friday nights from 5pm-9pm.

“If you want to chill on Friday after work you can come to Tanoa Plaza and enjoy the Fisherman’s Basket specials worth $30.

“One Fisherman’s Basket is big enough for two people.”

Tanoa Plaza Hotel restaurant and bar, Suva.

5 Things People Don’t Know About You?
1. My first name is Sahil but everyone call and knows me as Ali which is my surname.
2. I have a cute and very energetic son.
3. I love fishing and just being out in the sea however I don’t know how to swim.
4. I love travelling and exploring new places.
5. I love to train and keep physically fit.

How Many Places Have You Visited Around Fiji?
I have been to all parts of Viti Levu.

In Vanua Levu, I have been to Savusavu, Taveuni, and Labasa.

Vatia Wharf, Tavua.

What Is The One Place In Fiji You Would Take Visitors To, And Why?
Vatia Wharf in Tavua, very good fishing spot with a relaxing, mind easing view.

Pastries and cakes available at Tanoa Plaza Hotel Suva.

What Is Your Favourite Place For Coffee/Pie, And Why?
Tanoa Plaza because I get to make my own coffee and pies with customised flavors.

Albert Park in Suva. Photo: Ronald Kumar

What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot?
Albert Park in Suva.

A local passenger vessel is birthed at a jetty on Koro Island.

What Is One Place In Fiji That Remains On Your Bucket List, And Why?
Koro Island.

I would like to go fishing in the Koro Sea.

Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

A leading retailer for lights, furniture and solar products has opened its sixth outlet, since it started business nine years ago.

Al-Hamd’s Main Street Nadi store was officially opened on Saturday, by Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar.

Al-Hamd’s first store in Nadi was destroyed in a fire, last year.

Since then, the business has expanded its Al-Hamd Smart Living chain branches in Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, Ms Akbar said.

The Al-Hamd chain employs over 50 individuals.

Just last week, Al-Hamd Smart Living opened its fifth shop in Lautoka.

Managing director, Ashfaaq Khan said the business growth was a reflection of the country’s economic recovery.

“We are confident with the $80,000 investment, as the country points in the direction of economic growth,” he said.

“We had to open another shop for our loyal customers, so when we got the opportunity, we took it.”

Customers can expect a new range of lights and great promotions in the Nadi shop, Mr Khan said.

Al-Hamd Smart Living not only retained all staff members during COVID-19 pandemic, it created more employment opportunities.

The Nadi store employs three new staff members.

Mr Khan said there were plans to open the seventh shop in Nakasi.

Feedback:  shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj

FijiKava Ltd (ASX: FIJ) expects to settle conditions by next year, concerning its efforts to branch out to the United States of America,.

The Australian-Fijian medicinal kava company will make an initial investment of FJ$1.2 million to buy assets of an American company that makes cannabis-based wellness products.

FijiKava made the announcement on the Australian Securities Exchange.

FijiKava Inc, USA aims to acquire the assets of The Whole Plant Company, trading as Danodan Hempworks USA from real estate company WPC Inc.

FijiKava Inc also plans to purchase the cannabidiol  extraction US Patent from WPC Inc founder, Daniel Stoops.

A sum of FJ$727,000 has been set for the patent price.

Danodan produces a suite of organic certified cannabidiol (CBD) tincture products, sold throughout wellness boutiques and regional natural foods grocery stores in the USA.

On completion of the transaction, FijiKava will explore using Danodan’s patented extraction process for Noble Kava products.

FijiKava sales in the USA to date have been exclusively via Amazon online or as B2B sales of ingredients.

The Calmer Co

FijiKava Inc. (USA) will commence business as The Calmer Co. (USA) from January 1, 2022.

Danodan founder, Daniel Stoops,  said the products were all about reducing anxiety, relaxation, and better sleep.

With the combination of investment and sales and marketing expertise of the new team, the Danodan brand has a bright future”

Gathering of like-minded brands FijiKava chief executive officer, Anthony Noble said The Calmer Co. (USA)would gather a group of likeminded brands and companies, who share the same vision as the company.

Products from The Calmer Co are expected to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, improve sleep and support sports recovery and performance, Mr Noble said.

The global CBD market exceeds US$2.8bn1 (FJ$5.8 billion).

“We are confident that under our management, we can grow Danodan revenue strongly in 2022,” Mr Noble said.

“Growing availability of the Danodan products in retail and online will be a key initial driver of growth for the Danodan products, as it has been for FijiKava products.

“We will soon begin to work on determining if Danodan’s patented technology can be applied to Noble Fijian Kava.”

Conditions

The conditions of the sale precedent must be satisfied by December 24, 2021, the Australian Securities Exchange said.

FijiKava said it had sufficient capital to fund the acquisition using its current cash reserves.

“However, the company may undertake a capital raising under its current placement capacity, or pursuant to a security purchase plan to raise funds that would be allocated towards the acquisition as well as the company’s current activities,” Fiji Kava said.

Feedback:  frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj

Northern businesses are expected to pick up as the Christmas season nears, two chambers of commerce have said.

Savusavu Chamber president, Ravi Chhaganlal, said people continued to open new shops and restaurants.

They believed the commercial environment would improve when inter-island borders re-opened for trade from November 11.

Mr Chhaganlal said Diwali sales were low.

“We remain positive that the Christmas sales would boom when the majority of the COVID-19 safe protocols are lifted, and consumers were assured of their safety,” he said.

“When new businesses open, it reflects the potential that we have as a tourist-based town.”

Decentralisation

Meanwhile, Labasa Chamber president, Satish Kumar, said decentralisation was a key part of expanding the businesses outside Labasa Town, particularly during the COVID-19 period.

Mr Kumar said the expansion would improve service delivery to rural and remote areas outside the Central Business District of Labasa.

Some residents feared travelling outside their community bubbles, he said.

“Traditionally, we had large scale shops and supermarkets in the central business district of Labasa,” Mr Kumar said.

“Now this trend is changing and people are investing outside these areas, which is encouraging .”

He welcomed new entrepreneurs setting up and developing their businesses especially during this pandemic in areas like Vunika, Tuatua, Delailabasa and many other locations.

“It’s our own people that are investing and making a difference by providing service to customers in these various communities which is great for the growth of the local economy in Vanua Levu,” Mr Kumar added.ne.

Feedback:  sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj

Businesses have reinvested, rearranged and made ad­justments to overcome the impacts of COVID-19 pandemic.

Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) president Vi­nay Narsey said this during the FCEF organised, Top Executives (TOPEX) Conference at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi, yesterday.

He said the theme “Resilience businesses ready for tomorrow – 2030” was a reflection to how busi­nesses adapted to and evolved dur­ing the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Businesses in Fiji are up against adversity – cyclones, floods, droughts and now COVID-19.

“Fiji showed its resilience on the back of what many thought was a situation that was out of hand.”

He said TOPEX provided an op­portunity for the business com­munity to explore ways of regen­erations and diversification to become more resilient from im­pending threats.

Participation

322 business delegates are partic­ipating in the conference, which ends today.

There has been a massive in­crease in participation, said Mr Narsey.

“TOPEX only gets better as the years progress,” Mr Narsey said.

Delegates to the Top Executive Conference 2021 at Softiel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau Island, Nadi on November 12, 2021. Photo: Shreya Kumar

Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation

Mr Narsey said FCEF would be restructuring in the coming months.

“It is only natural for FCEF to evolve, to not just stay abreast, but to forge innovative pathways in our ever-changing global business environment,” he said.

“The FCEF board and I are look­ing forward to reviewing and im­proving structures, processes and also the branding of FCEF.”

He said for an organisation which had stayed the same since its establishment, the evolution was important.

From left: Fiji Development Bank (FDB) board director Inia Naiyaga, FDB general manager Finance and Aministration Saiyad Hussain and FDB chairman and Fiji Airways managing director and chief executive officer Andre Viljoen at the Top Executive Conference 2021 at Softiel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau Island, Nadi on November 12, 2021. Photo: Maraia Vula.

“The integral functions of FCEF would be retained,” he said.

The conference entailed eight sessions with a total of 18 speak­ers.

HFC Bank chief executive officer Rakesh Ram (right) with some of his senior managers at the Top Executive Conference 2021 at Softiel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau Island, Nadi on November 12, 2021. Photo: Maraia Vula.

TOPEX ends today after two days of constructive dialogue between businesses on ways businesses could overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and other adversities.

Born and raised in Suva, Rupert Boul­ton’s motto is life is for living.

He is the Marketing Officer at Toy­ota Tsusho South Sea Limited – Trading as Asco Motors. He is based in Suva.

The 42 year-old noticed prior to the pan­demic, that locals seemed to scoff at the idea of travelling locally.

“However, my late grandmother Frances Boulton used to always say, explore your own backyard before traveling the world.”

He recently went on adventure trip to at the Namosi Highlands, to experience what River Tubing Fiji had to of fer.

“Arriving in Navua there was a slight drizzle as we caught a taxi to the Danford homestead and base of River Tubing Fiji.

“So apparently the best time to go is after heavy rainfall as the river is alive and the rapids are stronger.

“We got on our longboats to ride up the Navua River, hiking through certain parts.

“Passing, cascading waterfalls and lush tropical rainforest like out of a movie scene.

“William and his crew, whose hospitality can only be described as the authentic Fiji experience had us swimming at the wa­terfall, having lunch riverside and tubing down rough rapids squealing in delight.

“At the end of the day we were all beam­ing from ear to ear from the experience.

“Highly recommend for friends and fam­ily as a bonding experience.”

How many places in Fiji have you been to?

Levuka in Ovalau; Savusavu and Labasa in Vanua Levu; The Treasure Island Re­sort; Beachcomber Island; Nananu-i-Ra Island; Malamala Island; South Sea Island; Tivua Island; Modriki Island, Vunisea in Kadavu and Malolo Island.

What is the one place in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?

River Tubing Fiji (Navua) they truly give you an authentic Fiji experience.

What is your favourite place for a pie/cof­fee?

On a Saturday morning, Moments Café and Contain Yourself Café.

On a Sunday, the Republic of Cappuccino (ROC) Café, in Suva, is a must!

The Republic of Cappuccino
(ROC) Cafe in Suva

What is your favourite secret backyard spot?

Savusavu, not called the hidden paradise for nothing.

An aerial view of the Savusavu Port.

What is the one place in Fiji on the top of your bucket list?

Club House – InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa.

Best customer service and local experi­ence ever.

An aerial view of InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa.

Milly Kado has always been passionate about personal health and well-being.

It reflects in the work she does.

Ms Kado is the manager for the Suva-based Orca Swim Club.

Among her interests are healthy nutrition and awareness on educa­tion.

When she is not managing the swim club, or taking part in vol­untary work, Ms Kado is at home with her family.

Originally from Vanuabalavu, she is married with four children.

How many places in Fiji have you been to?

I have been around the two main islands; Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.

What is the one place in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?

Some outer island resort in the Mamanucas.

This is so visitors could experi­ence the real Fiji life, without the hustle and bustle.

What is your favourite place for a pie/coffee, and why?

Bulaccino Café.

The locations are comfortable with good coffee.

And the services are good.

Drink and macaroons at Bulaccino cafe.

What is your favourite secret backyard spot, and why?

Bad Dog Café in Da­modar City, Suva.

It is a good place to c a t c h up with friends.

Bad Dog Cafe in Damodar City centre, Suva.

What is the one spot in Fiji on the top of your bucket list, and why?

Kadavu.

I share my roots from Ka­davu so it would be nice to visit it.

Traditional bures in Kadavu.

Krishnil Prasad is passionate about cooking.

The 27-year old is a Cluster Marketing Executive, Marriott Fiji Hotels and Resorts.

“I love to cook and evolve traditional reci­pes by localising it using seasonal ingredi­ents.

“When I am stressed, I love to bake and do a bit of cleaning,” he said.

Mr Prasad enjoys watching psychological thrillers and his favourite movies include Dangerous Ishq, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Hamari Adhuri Kahani.

He also loves reading and has recently completed reading a novel 8 Perfect Mur­ders written by Peter Swanson. Mr Prasad was born in Suva but, currently lives in Nadi with his mother.

How many places in Fiji have you been to?
I have travelled within Viti Levu and hotels like Fiji Mar­riott Resort Momi Bay, Westin Denarau Island Resort and Spa, Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, Naviti Resort to apartment style accommodation like the Palms, backpacker and Beachcomber Is­land Resort.

What us the one place in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?
Sheraton Resort and Spa, Tokoriki Island.

Because it has amazing sunset view, pictur­esque views, clear pristine waters, amazing food and beverage.

Five-star luxury style ac­commodations on an island, best beach and well thought water activities.

Grace Road Kitchen

What is your favourite place for a pie or cof­fee, and why?
Coffee at Grace Road restaurants.

Quick bites at Heineken House restaurant and bar, the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club has the best wood fired oven pizzas and chicken wings with impressive views of the championship golf course and alfresco din­ing experience.

Heine`ken House Restaurant and Bar

What us your favourite secret backyard spot?
My favourite secret backyard spot is at home where I love cook authentic Indo-Fi­jian foods.

What is the one place in Fiji that is on the top of your bucket list?
Namale Resort and Spa.

Feedback: shahani.mala@fijisun.com.fj

Chad Eastgate loves to explore new places during his free time.

He is the Events Manager for Tourism Fiji.

Tourism Fiji is the statutory body that is responsible for marketing and promoting Fiji as a tourist destination globally.

It has headquarters in Nadi, with offices in Sydney, Auckland, Los Angeles, London, Germany and China.

Representatives are in India, Singapore and Japan reflecting the importance of visitors from these markets.

Apart from exploring places, Mr Eastgate loves playing field hockey and spending time with his family and friends.

He was born and raised in Suva but he now resides with his family in Namaka, Nadi.

Blue Lagoon Cruises offers trips to the Mamanucas and Yasawas.

How many places in Fiji have you been to?
I have been around Viti Levu and I have been to Vanua Levu, Yasawas and the Mamanuca groups.

Tavoro Falls, Taveuni.

What is the one place in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?
Taveuni Island because it has great diving spots and its natural beauty is breathtaking.

What is your favourite place for a pie or coffee, and why?
I love Bulaccino Café in Nadi.

That is where I always go to because of its convenient location.

InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is at Natadola Bay.

What is your favourite secret backyard spot?
My favourite secret backyard spot is Natadola beach, because I enjoy spending time by the ocean.

Southern Lau Islands

What is the one place in Fiji that is on the top of your bucket list?
I want to visit Lau Group.

Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj

If culinary art is magic, then Sivha Goundar’s spoon is a wand.

The head chef at Tanoa Waterfront Hotel in Lautoka, Mr Goundar understands how ordinary ingredients could make something extraordinary.

“Chefs need to be passionate and focused on what they do,” Mr Goundar said.

“The energy the chef brings into the kitchen determines the quality of food being delivered to customers.”

“Being a chef is an ‘art and science’ as every meal needs to be created like a masterpiece.”

“Therefore, it should look as good as it tastes – understanding the chemistry of the different ingredients and what works best to make a perfect balance and combination of flavours,” he said.

He described many sleepless nights as the stepping stones towards becoming a head chef.

“Work hard to achieve your goals.”

He said it was his childhood dream to become a chef.

“I always watched mum as she cooked at home and I also spent time with cooks at family functions.”

“My favourite role was being given a chance to stir food with the wooden spoon.”

“These moments motivated me to become a chef.”

Lautoka’s Abaca Fiji offers trekking guides and accommodation for trekkers.

What’s One Place You’d Take Every Visitor To Fiji, And Why?
Abaca Fiji.

Perfect place to unwind from normal duties – peaceful, yet adventurers.

Club Fiji Resort.

What Is Your Secret Favourite Backyard Spot, And Why?
There are actually two: Club Fiji Resort in Nadi, is one of my favourite spots as it is away from the city and has a homey ambience – comfortable and cosy.

The other spot is a secret, which I would prefer to keep it a secret.

Fins restaurant, Lautoka.

What Is Your Favourite Place In Fiji For A Pie/Coffee?
I have not found a place better than Fins Restaurant – in terms of consistency, quality and the perfect view.

To be specific, iced coffee and custard pie are my favourites.

Aerial view of Fiji’s first overwater resort, Marriott Fiji Momi Bay.

What Is The One Spot In Fiji On The Top Of Your Bucket List?
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay’s over-water lagoon bure villas.

Feedback: shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj

Katalina Allen’s balancing act as a business executive and mother of five should be more than enough in itself.

But the 36-year old New Zealand-born wears other hats – including that of vice chair of Young Entrepreneurs Council Fiji.

Mrs Allen is the general manager of operations and human resources at Grid Security Services Fiji Limited, and plays an active role as the vice chair of Young Entrepreneurs Council Fiji.

Safe Landing Eco Lodge. Source: www.booking.com

What Is One Place In Fiji You Would Take Visitors To, And Why?
Yasawa.

Although I have maternal links to Serua, I find the tranquility, beauty and atmosphere in the Yasawa group to be one that is unmatched.

I particularly like a beautiful spot that has become my second home, Safe Landing Resort on Nacula.

The staff are like family to me, and one of my favourite things is the walk across the island to the village hall for Mass on Sunday.

They are such loving and peaceful people, and a trip to Safe Landing Resort always rejuvenates me and recharges my batteries.

Mana Coffee. Source: Mana Coffee FaceBook Page

What Is Your Favourite Spot For A Coffee Or Pie?
My most favourite spot to have a coffee and a little chill is Mana Coffee at Selbourne Street.

I especially enjoy the private rooms that they have on hire.

It is absolutely a great place to run away to when I need some alone time to work on a project, or to get away from the hustle and bustle of my normal work day.

What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot?
My own backyard.

The work I do and the industry I work in is so demanding; it calls for me to be out in the field quite a lot ,speaking to our security officers, meeting clients, performing security risk assessments.

Time at home with my husband and five children is a welcome place to chill and connect with what matters the most to me – my family.

Qilaqila Vanuabalvu, Lau. Source: Jon Apted – FaceBook

Fulaga, Lau. Source: Jon Apted – FaceBook.

What Is One Place In Fiji On Your Bucket List?
Lau, because Jon Apted posted some amazing photos from the cruise that Captain Cook Cruises does around the Lau group, which he recently went on.

This is definitely another place that has so much to offer that many of us living in Fiji didn’t even know existed.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj

The administration officer at the Oceania National Olympic Committee (ONOC), Tessa-Maree Harman’s passion is often intermingled with her profession.

Ms Harman is a former national representative in hockey.

The first time she represented Fiji was in 2009 when she was only 13-years-old, becoming the youngest player ever in the history of Fiji hockey to don the national jersey.

“I have travelled to the likes of the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires and to the 2019 International Athletes Forum in Lausanne, Switzerland,” Ms Harman said.

“I am heavily involved with sports work and awareness in Fiji through the Fiji Association of Sport and National Olympic Committee Voices of the Athletes’ programme.”

Ms Harman has also been nominated as a Fiji Chess Federation executive member from 2020 to 2021.

What Are Some Of Your Hobbies?
Going for a walk, spending time with family and friends, cooking for my fiancé.

I also enjoy spending some quality time on my own, and catching up with a book or watching movies.

Beach Street in Levuka

How Many Places In Fiji Have You Been To?
I’ve visited Levuka and Beqa where my mother is from.

I’ve been to a number of places on Viti Levu, from Tailevu to Rakiraki.

Sigatoka Sand dunes. Source : https://anotherjayinparadise.com/sigatoka-sand-dunes/

What Is The One Place In Fiji You Would Take Every Visitor To?
Sigatoka Sand Dunes.

It’s the most beautiful place to have a bonfire at night, and possibly the best place to lay and stare at the stars.

Cafe Planet on the Coral Coast, Korotogo, Sigatoka.

What Is Your Favourite Place For Pie/Coffee, And Why?
Cafe Planet in Korotogo, and for a feed, Mama’s Pizza in Nadi.

Natadola beach. Source: www.myfiji.com

What Is Your Favourite Secret Backyard Spot ?
Natadola Beach, because there’s just something about the sound of waves that allows you to drift away from the everyday chaos of life.

Savusavu Bay & Town.

What Is The One place in Fiji on the top of your bucket list?
Savusavu, I have paternal links to Savusavu, and I would love to visit and explore the beauty it beholds.

Feedback: shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj

A chef is an artist of food.

Bringing flair and innovation to the Dua Tale kitchen in Wyndham Resort Denarau Island, Eroni Madraivia is truly an artist.

Residing in Nadi, the head chef of Dua Tale kitchen believes in incorporating local produce to an otherwise Western cuisine.

While COVID-19 had badly affected the tourism sector, Mr Madraivia used that time to innovate ways to integrate local and western dishes.

Now, the head chef cannot wait to greet tourists back with the delicate balance of ingredients he has achieved.

“I began my career at the Pearl Resort, and then moved to Likuliku Lagoon Resort, then Hilton Hotel.

“While at Hilton, I was blessed to be given an opportunity to work at Hilton – Seoul Korea for three months and then moved to Rapopo Plantation Resort in Papua New Guinea before I joined Wyndham.”

He said food was part of his memory, and experiences with his grandmother inspired him to become a chef.

Mr Madraivia is married with four children.

What are some of your hobbies?
I like meeting new people, playing rugby and playing around with ingredients to make new dishes.

The Wananavu Beach Resort

What is the one place in Fiji you would take every to, and why?
Wananavu Beach Resort in Rakiraki.

It has a beautiful view and serene atmosphere.

A different setting altogether.

One of the many Bulaccino Cafe’s in Fiji.

What is your favourite place for pie/coffee, and why?
Bulaccino Cafe.

Unique place with great coffee and pastries.

What is your favourite secret backyard spot, and why?
At home in Nadi, with my family.

Savusavu town, on the island of Vanua Levu in the province of Cakaudrove.

What is the one spot in Fiji on the top of your bucket list?
Savusavu.

I heard a lot about Savusavu, but I want to see for myself if the tales about its beauty are true.

Feedback: shreya.kumar@fijisun.com.fj

A seasoned insurance professional, who is now employed in international development, is behind moves to implement a first of its kind Climate Risk Insurance programme.

Krishnan Narasimhan leads a team of technical specialists in implementing the insurance programme within the United Nations Capital Development Fund.

The former General Manager for LICI in Fiji has a rich blend of private sector and development experience.

Mr Narasimhan is the programme manager for the United Nations Capital Development Fund – an inclusive finance arm of Pacific insurance and climate adaptation.

Mr Narasimhan is responsible for overseeing programme implementation across the Pacific Small Island developing states.

The move from the corporate private sector to international development aimed was to bring years of hard core managerial experience to the area of international development, he said.

“Working with and for the welfare of poor and low income households is a matter dear to my heart, and will remain a life-long mission,” Mr Narasimhan said.

He is a strict vegetarian, and believes he is a good cook. Mr Narasimhan loves to travel, and considers himself an amateur photographer.

He is also a mentor for a charitable non-government organisation in India, which provides free education for girls.

What is one place in Fiji you would take visitors to?
Taveuni.

I have been there several times.

It’s a paradise within a paradise.

True to its name, Garden Island has rich flora that can’t be found elsewhere.

The place is tranquil and serene, where time stands still, people are extra friendly and down to earth.

Exotic birds, supremely clean and refreshing air add to the beauty of the place.

What Is Your Favourite Spot For Coffee/Pie, And Why?,,
The Coffee Bean Fiji, at the FBC building, is near my office, and offers strong coffee – just the way I like.

It is popular for its friendly staff, and is a good place to hold meetings, because of its proximity to the central business district.

Nasese foreshore. Photo: Shreya Kumar.

What Is Your Favourite Backyard Spot?
The Suva sea wall.

Whenever I want to relax, I go there to gaze at the ocean and the setting sun.

Southern Lau Islands

What Is One Place In Fiji On Your Bucket List?
Lau group, to play cricket with the folks there.

I made plans earlier to visit, but the trip was cancelled.

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj