In the village of Nalidi, situated in the lively tikina of Nakorotubu, a remarkable young woman named Mereili Turagawai is shattering gender stereotypes in the male-dominated field of agriculture. At just 26 years old, Mereili balances her role as a primary school teacher at Turagarua Primary School with her participation in the Matakavou Project, a transformative youth-led agriculture initiative in her community.
Raised by her grandparents, Mereili’s path to education was fraught with challenges. After completing high school at Suva Sangam College, she attended the University of the South Pacific (USP) in 2018, where financial constraints required her to work her way through school. Her perseverance paid off in 2022 when she graduated, but securing a teaching position revealed that her salary was insufficient to support her family, including her younger siblings.
Recognizing the need for additional income, Mereili joined the Matakavou Project, which focuses on sustainable farming practices, primarily cultivating yaqona, dalo, and cassava. Despite initial hesitations about being the only woman in a group of young men, she boldly committed to the initiative, motivated by the desire to support her family.
Mereili contributes to the farming project by providing supplies and in return, the male members help maintain her land and crops. The project adheres to strict guidelines, refraining from harvesting until the end of a three-year period to ensure sustainable growth. This long-term vision reflects a growing recognition of the role women play in agricultural innovation and resilience in Fiji.
Her story echoes those of others like Olivia Cavuka, who took over management of Yaukawa Farm after her husband’s death, and Litea Matavesi, who successfully transitioned from urban living to rural farming. Both women exemplify resilience in the face of personal trials, embodying the spirit of women in agriculture as they navigate challenges while emphasizing the importance of community support and continuous learning.
Mereili’s aspirations reach beyond farming. Currently pursuing postgraduate studies at USP, she aims for a secondary teaching position, focusing on geography and history, with the ultimate goal of becoming a university lecturer. Inspired by her grandparents, she reflects on the foundational support they have given her throughout her journey.
In her own words, Mereili encourages young women to embrace farming as a viable career. “Farming isn’t just for men,” she asserts, highlighting the need for women to envision their long-term potential in this field.
Mereili’s story is not just one of personal success; it is a beacon of hope for many in her village. By challenging societal norms and contributing to her community’s agricultural landscape, she paves the way for future generations of women to thrive. Through hard work and a commitment to education and family, Mereili Turagawai stands as a powerful example of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of community.
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