For 18 years, Ledua Qalobula lived away from his family, a situation born not of choice but necessity. As a child, he was taken in by an Indo-Fijian family in Baulevu, Naitasiri, allowing his parents and siblings to reside safely on land provided by the farmer, Jain Shankar.
Reflecting on his past, Ledua describes his separation from his family as a challenging journey, but one that was essential for survival. Starting work at a mere four dollars a day, his wages saw little improvement for the first decade, eventually rising to ten and then fifteen dollars. While modest, he managed to get by during those years.
Originally hailing from Komo, Kabara in the Lau Group, Ledua’s formative years unfolded on the mainland of Viti Levu. His family relocated to Batiki Settlement and later Wainasasa, where he attended Naitasiri Bharatiya School. Unfortunately, his formal education ended prematurely in Class 4. However, he views life itself as a significant teacher.
After spending nearly two decades away from home, Ledua returned to foster his own family, marrying in the village of Delaidamanu, Naitasiri, and raising six children. He realized that daily wages were not sustainable for his growing family, leading him to seek permanent land for farming. This journey culminated in securing a 10-acre Crown Lease where he currently cultivates ginger, dalo, and cassava.
Despite early struggles, Ledua’s passion for farming ignited during his years with the Shankar family, where he acquired invaluable lessons in discipline and hard work. He emphasizes that hard work and responsibility are values he aims to instill in his children.
His path has not been without its challenges. Ledua candidly shares a time when his faith waned during those years away; he embraced Hindu practices and rituals. However, his faith in Christianity was reignited through the influence of his wife, who recently passed away after battling cancer. Her legacy continues as he raises their children, attributing much of his spiritual resurgence and perseverance to her support.
Since committing his life to Christ in 2012, Ledua has been actively involved in ministry, serving the Original Pentecostal Church and reaching out to Indo-Fijian families in his community by preaching in Hindi. He sees his life journey as part of a larger divine plan, likening his experiences to biblical figures who were often placed in unexpected situations for a greater purpose.
With a determined spirit, Ledua advocates for land and farming as means of economic empowerment in his community. He believes that with hardworking hands, land can lift families from poverty, urging his community to recognize the potential that lies in their agricultural resources.
At 47, Ledua’s narrative is ultimately one of hope and gratitude. He reflects on the trials that shaped him and the importance of returning to the land. His message to his children underscores a belief in both hard work and the unbreakable bond with the land, promoting a future filled with promise and opportunity for his family and community.
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