Growing up, Rueli Rawalana felt a strong connection to his village and knew he would never leave it behind. While many of his peers sought opportunities in urban areas, he chose to stay close to his aging father. He quickly realized that working the land could lead to financial success.
“In fact, I understood that the same money many people chase could be made through farming and hard work,” he stated. “Many look far away for a better life, but I firmly believe there is money to be made in agriculture. The land is a treasure if you’re willing to put in the effort.”
At just 15 years old, Rawalana’s family moved from their village of Serea in Naitasiri to manage a 40-acre rubber plantation named Veirapa. He recalled his father’s simple advice: to persevere, cultivate the land, earn a living, and provide for the family. This is a lesson he has passed down to his two sons.
“Even without formal education, I’ve managed to build a house in the village and buy a car. I want my sons to build on that foundation,” he shared.
Despite the chilly nights currently experienced in the country, the 69-year-old rises daily at 5 am to milk his cows. From his 35-cow herd, he earns $50 and dedicates much of his time to his taro farm.
“At my age, that is enough to sustain me. I don’t live in luxury and have never aspired to wealth. Living a simple, stress-free life surrounded by nature is what matters most to me,” he explained.
Rawalana is worried about the increasing number of unemployed i-Taukei youth in Fiji’s urban areas. He encourages them to return to their villages and engage in agricultural work.
“It’s great to have big dreams, pursue an education, and land a good job, but if that doesn’t work out, please come back to your villages. Take responsibility and contribute to your community’s prosperity,” he urged.
He expressed concern that if young men continue to abandon their villages in search of opportunities in cities, the rising crime rates and struggles with substances will persist, leaving the elderly and the land uncared for.
The next time you purchase liquid or powdered milk, remember that the enjoyment of dairy products comes from the hard work of dedicated dairy farmers like Rawalana.