At the beginning of March, we met Eleni Luvenitoga (32) in her home in Vatuwaqa, where she lives with her three young children. Eleni’s story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation – a journey shaped by hardship but defined by hope.
Growing up, Eleni embraced opportunities that allowed her to express herself and show her talent. While still in Year 11, Eleni began working with Fiji Fashion Week as a model and even won Model of the Year in 2010. However, her life took a difficult turn after marriage. Her husband struggled with drug use, and their home was frequently raided by police. Through it all, Eleni remained strong for her three children, carrying the weight of responsibility while trying to hold her family together.
In 2023, she made the brave decision to leave the relationship, hoping it would encourage change. Tragically, her husband committed suicide shortly after, leaving Eleni grappling with grief and self-blame.
Eleni discovered the SOM Project through Facebook— a simple moment that would lead to a powerful turning point in her life.
Before joining the Solo Mom (SOM) Project in 2024, she was already running her own small business, Kai Tai Designs, which she founded in 2016.
Through the programme, she found more than just business training— she found healing and confidence.
“I am so happy and blessed to have been accepted to be part of the SOM project and I believe I came in for a reason,” she shared. “The interview to get in was the first ever experience I have had in an interview. I was really happy to get through.”
“The counselling has been a valuable component of the training because it boosted my confidence to share my personal story and also to encourage other SOMs to do the same.”
For Eleni, the ability to speak openly in a safe environment was transformative. It helped rebuild her self-worth and reminded her that she was not alone. The impact of the programme extended beyond emotional support. Determined to grow, Eleni enrolled in the Matua Programme to complete her secondary education. She successfully passed her Year 12 national examinations— an achievement she is deeply proud of.
She also took on a role with a real estate agency to further build her confidence and professional skills, all while continuing to grow her business.
Today, Eleni’s outlook is filled with ambition and purpose. The skills she gained through the SOM Project have empowered her to expand her business and improve her family’s financial stability. She has embraced new techniques such as sublimation and heat press printing, allowing her to take on larger and more complex orders. When demand grows, she even brings in other solo mothers to assist— creating opportunities for others along the way.
Looking ahead, Eleni dreams big. She hopes to become a successful businesswoman and open her own boutique, while also remaining open to employment opportunities that support her growth. Her art and design work will always remain close to her heart.
Eleni’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when women are given the tools, support, and space to rebuild their lives. Her message to others is clear:
Women should be encouraged to be independent, set goals, take on challenges, and support one another.
From surviving hardship to building a future filled with possibility, Eleni Luvenitoga is not just rebuilding her life—she is redefining it. Learn more about the Fiji Moms project HERE