THE winner of last year's sulu and jaba competition, Manju Raj, will make the uniforms of staff of one of Fiji's premier resorts, thanks to organisers Fiji Fashion Week..
Mrs Raj, who has been sewing for the past 28 years, was approached by Laucala Island Resort on Qamea off Taveuni, to make samples of staff uniforms following the exposure of her products at last year's fashion show.
The 44-year-old of Vunidawa in Naitasiri sewed 12 pairs for the resort which, according to her, was a milestone achievement for her family.
The sole breadwinner of a family of four said her talent would not have been recognised without this competition.
"I am happy, I have been putting food on the table through this work and making sulu and jaba for a hotel such as Laucala Island is a milestone achievement," Mrs Raj said.
She said it was through her passion that she managed to send her daughter to medical school. Her jaba that caught the eyes of the judges at the show will be worn by Miss Clyde Engineering Salote Caginidaveta at the Fijian Night during the Bula Festival in Nadi this week.
Meanwhile, the second round of the sulu and jaba competition entries will close today.
FFW marketing manager Brook Pannell urged people to be part of the event this Saturday at the Civic Centre.