Wati Maraiwai-Talavutu was all smiles, much like the other women-led micro and small business owners at the launch of digital mobile payment platform DUAPAY yesterday. This follows a successful 12
Creations 23 owner Wati Maraiwai-Talavutu. Photo: Maraia Vula
Wati Maraiwai-Talavutu was all smiles, much like the other women-led micro and small business owners at the launch of digital mobile payment platform DUAPAY yesterday. This follows a successful 12 month pilot.
DUAPAY app was developed in collaboration with Mastercard, Fintech Pacific and international development organisation, ygap, in partnership with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Business Partnerships Platform (BPP).
It can be downloaded from the Google Play Store enabling smart phones to accept Mastercard and Visa tap and go payments.
DUAPAY is now available to small business owners who have been banking with Westpac in Fiji for the past 12 months, with increased eligibility anticipated in the coming months.
Ms Maraiwai-Talavutu, the owner of Creations 23, a boutique specialising in handcrafted tapa outfits, accessories, salusalu (garlands), floral designs, and intricate tapa wall pieces, said, with DUAPAY it would be convenient to make transactions, especially since she doesn’t have an EFTPOS machine.
“DUAPAY app has been uploaded on my phone. My Westpac debit account is connected with the app,” she said.
“This is convenient for my business, customers will be purchasing the products through the app and I won’t get to lose customers, because I do receive cash and I also get payments through the DUAPAY app.”
Her creations fuse traditional artistry with contemporary aesthetics, offering unique pieces that celebrate Pacific culture and craftsmanship.
“From elegantly designed tapa clothing to intricately crafted backdrop pieces, our range captures the essence of cultural expression, making each creation a statement of individuality and heritage.
“At Creations 23, we are dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of tapa art while infusing them with modern creativity.”
“Our curated collection of tapa outfits, accessories, salusalu, floral arrangements, and backdrop pieces offers a distinct blend of heritage and modernity.
“Our commitment to preserving Pacific culture through artistic innovation makes us a unique addition to the Pacific Fair.
“We bring a fresh perspective to traditional crafts, attracting visitors who seek both cultural authenticity and modern style.
“Our creations not only reflect the past but also embrace the present, resonating with a diverse audience and enriching the fair’s offerings with a touch of timeless elegance and innovation.”
She will be participating in the 2023 Pacific Fair on October 6 to 8 in Noumea, New Caledonia.
She was chosen to participate as a member of Women Entrepreneurs Business Council (WEBC) under the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF).
The French Embassy and FCEF collaborated to support five women entrepreneurs, including Ms Maraiwai-Talavutu, with an invaluable platform to showcase the intricate artistry of tapa printing.
“Most of my customers that I’ll be meeting in New Caledonia, will be using their MasterCard and the Visa card,” Ms Maraiwai-Talavutu said.
“I aim to share my unique cultural expression with a broader audience, fostering appreciation for traditional craftsmanship while also establishing new opportunities for collaboration and growth within the artisan community.”
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj
