When COVID-19 lockdowns meant Roza Rojano had to closed down her hair salon, she had no idea she'd become a fashion entrepreneur.
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The Wollongong-based owner of Total Bliss Hair & Body Spa used the forced downtime during lockdown to import lifestyle bags called Kari Bags. After investigating the bags, she felt could be used a variety of ways in the COVID safe outdoors.
Her hunch was right and the response exceeded her wildest expectations.
Now back in the salon, Ms Rojano has found herself busier than ever trying to run two businesses.
But Ms Rojano thinks it is a good problem to have because she fells diversity is a good way to weather any storm.
"When you are in lockdown you just have to find other avenues to survive. We couldn't do anything so I decided to start this new business," she said.
"They are beach bags made out of environmentally friendly material so all you have to do is hose them down. People use them as eskies, beach bags, shopping and laundry bags. They are so versatile people use them for anything and I have been getting international orders as well.
During the recent lockdown Mr Rojano told her partner she wouldn't be able to afford to shut down again.
"I said "I have to find something I can do in lockdown that is going to supplement my income"," she said.
"Now both of the businesses are really busy which is so good. We don't know what the future holds and having this second business is providing me with some insurance."
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
