Peniana Matai is fully committed to her role as a market vendor at the vibrant Suva Municipal Market, despite the challenges posed by fierce competition. Three years ago, she transitioned from a casual job to entrepreneurship, a decision fueled by her determination to support her husband and four children as the family’s primary provider.
Matai reflects on the fulfilling experiences she has encountered, stating, “Being a market vendor has opened many opportunities, and I’ve met amazing people while doing business.” On particularly lucrative days, she can earn as much as $300, significantly surpassing her previous two-week earnings. However, the journey isn’t without its hurdles, as the seafood market experiences fluctuating prices due to high demand and sourcing challenges for products like sea grapes and crabs. Current prices at the market are reasonable, with sea grapes selling between $2 and $5 and crabs in coconut milk for $5.
In a parallel story, Tokasa Wati has established herself in the market as a successful seller of dalo, drawing from over a decade of agricultural experience. Originating from Lomai Vuna in the highlands of Naitasiri, Wati began her farming career with watermelons before transitioning to dalo, yielding impressive earnings of up to $3,000 per week during peak season. Her diverse four-acre farm, located four hours away from her village, also produces corn, pumpkins, and various green vegetables. Wati expresses gratitude for her success, noting how her income allows for her children’s education and meeting family needs. She encourages young people to leverage their land for financial gain, emphasizing that “every iTaukei person owns land, so there’s no excuse not to make money.” Her dalo bundles range from $20 to $30, and her story of resilience inspires many in the community.
These narratives highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and resourcefulness within the local market, serving as motivational examples for others facing similar circumstances. Their determination reminds us that creativity and hard work can lead to transformative opportunities, paving the way for a brighter future.
Leave a comment