This month we introduce Diana Bonga, a hardworking mother of two children, who is originally from the island of Pentecost. Diana is the youngest of four children, with her mother teaching on Pentecost, and her father living with her other siblings. She consistently provides for her own family to ensure their financial security through her handmade crafts.
Diana started her business, “Diana’s handmade earrings and flowers’, in 2019. It has allowed her to express her creativity while also providing a stable income for her family. She is also figuring out a good life balance as she has just started studying for a Bachelor of Primary Education at the School of Education (previously known as Teachers College).
#SistaGatStyle #SelfMotivated #LovingMother #GelPentecost #EconomicEmpowerment
Name
Diana Bonga
Age
24 years old
Where are you from?
I am from the Island of Pentecost.
Tell us about your family?
My partner and I live in Port Vila, we have two children, a 3 year old daughter and 2 year old son. My father and older siblings live in Port Vila as well, however, my mother lives on Pentecost as she is teaching at Apavtapanga School.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
During my spare time I love to make my hair flowers, sew dresses and make earrings.
What do you study? Do you work?
I am currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Primary Education at the School of Education (previously known as Teachers College) in Port Vila. This is my first year, I have four years to complete this degree. I own a small sewing business, called “Diana’s Handmade earrings and flowers”. I make dresses with matching hair flowers and earrings and usually sell them in packages. My business is mainly to support my courses as I am a self sponsored student and I also have two children to provide for.
What do you aspire to do in the future?
I want to continue in my education and reach other levels such as Post Graduate and Masters. I also want to expand the size of my business.
What is a quote that you live by?
My life has always been based on this quote “no matter the challenges you’ve gone through in life, self-motivation and positive thoughts will ensure you achieve your goals”.
How would you describe your style? Why do you like fashion?
My style is simple and it shows through the earrings and flowers I create. I like fashion because women have the potential to look and feel attractive. The clothes we wear have a big impact on us as it contributes to the way we feel about ourselves. It amazes me what the right set of clothes can do for a woman – the same can be said for men.
Who influences your style?
My style is based on my motivation to earn an income for my tuition fees and also financially support my two children. I have an aunty who has started teaching me how to sew. She has taught me how to cut my own patterns and this has motivated me to continue to be part of the sewing industry. My earring and hair flower creations were self taught.
What beauty products do you use?
I usually purchase lotions from the Chinese shops but most of the time I use coconut oil. I use roller perfumes as well.
Any fashion tips?
Women should dress up each day like it is our last. Let’s enjoy the way we dress.
What are three words you would use to describe yourself?
Independent, Breadwinner and Motivated.
What’s the most difficult thing you’ve had to face?
One of the most difficult things that I had to face was getting pregnant after finishing Year 13 and having to go and live with my child’s father. During this period, I still had high expectations to complete my studies however I was faced with the burden of having to financially support my family. It has been difficult to pay my house girl, my rent and my course fees but my business and my customers have been the sole support for my family and my partner.
What is your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is failing my studies. I think this is because I am a self-sponsored student and I need to invest a lot in myself.
Photographer: Starlight Photography
Assistant: Rosina Kaimbang
Location: Island Magic Resort
About the Designer
Diana designs all her stylish outfits, if you want to wear one of her designs, she is open to taking orders. Check out all her designs and handmade crafts on her Facebook page, Diana’s Handmade earrings and flowers. You can also contact her on 7656183 to place your orders.
