By Ezra Toara
Copyright dailypost
What began as a simple family formula has grown into a thriving small business, thanks to the determination and vision of Rosemary Kalokis of Erakor Village.
Kalokis is the founder of Kalokis Coconut Oil, a natural skincare line made from coconut, tamanu oil, and vanilla.
The blend, she explained, was passed down from her late mother, who had long prepared oils for family use. When her mother passed away from cancer in 2010, Kalokis decided to turn this family tradition into a sustainable business.
“Even though my mum is no longer with us, I’m happy that I can hold onto this formula and turn it into something that helps my family today,” she said.
By adding vanilla essence to the coconut and tamanu oil, Kalokis created a value-added product with a natural fragrance that quickly gained attention. Beyond its pleasant aroma, she said the oil is effective for smoothing the skin, easing body pain, and serving as a massage oil.
In the early days, she recalls producing the oil herself—grating coconuts and processing them at home on Efate.
But after a coconut beetle infestation reduced supply, she decided to source virgin oil from mothers across Vanuatu.
She then refined and infused these oils into her own products, turning a challenge into an opportunity to support rural families.
Kalokis said her motivation goes beyond profit. She hopes her work inspires more Ni-Vanuatu to develop local products for the benefit of their families and the nation.
“We are celebrating over 40 years of independence. We need to work together to grow our country. I don’t want to be competitive with other businesses. I want us to work as one,” she said.
Today, her oils are sold at the Vanuatu National Council of Women (VNCW) shop at the Cultural Centre, Rocket Stove at Freshwota, and her home village of Erakor. Demand often exceeds supply, with Kalokis admitting she regularly runs out of stock. Still, she remains committed to working with more women producers of virgin oil to meet growing customer needs.
Married to her husband from Pango and deeply rooted in her Erakor heritage, Kalokis was among the proud exhibitors at this week’s Vanuatu Made Trade Show in Port Vila, where she showcased her unique line of oils.
Her story is one of resilience, tradition, and entrepreneurship—a reflection of how Ni-Vanuatu can turn heritage into opportunity while supporting each other to build a stronger future.
