After losing her job in April this year, because of the effects of COVID-19 to the tourism industry, Linda Andrews, was not going to wait around and sulk over the loss of income.

Instead of rushing to look for alternative ways of generating income, she patiently planned out what she would do, to earn a living.

The mother-of-three children has spent more than 20 years in the tourism industry, working her way up from being an activities manager and spa manager to resort manager at some of Fiji’s renowned tourism properties like Robinson Crusoe, Musket Cove Island Resort, Coconut Beach Resort Fiji and Nanuya Island Resort.

Ms Andrews is now three months into her new business venture of soap-making to support her family.

Her business, Haven Soap and Spice, involves the use of natural oils to make soap which is suitable for all skin types.

“I was lucky to do a course at the Australia Pacific Training Coalition and at the Fiji National University which was run by the tourism industry and the Government,” said Ms Andrews.

“Being in the spa, I loved working with oils. So soap-making was of interest to me.

“I call it Haven because it is more like heaven. Haven is my granddaughter who lives in New Zealand.”

She has been running her business online and at her Simla home in Lautoka. This is her first time in the soap-making business.

“I have been going to the markets to sell. I have been trying to sell online and visit a few hotels,” she added.

Edited by Selita Bolanavanua

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