At 57, Olivia Cavuka has stepped forward as the driving force behind Yaukawa Farm, located in Vitogo Paipai, Lautoka, Fiji. Spanning 25 acres, with 7 acres dedicated to farming, this family-owned enterprise cultivates a diverse array of crops, including pineapples, sugar cane, limes, coconuts, cassava, and mangoes, all of which are sold at a local market stall.

Cavuka embodies resilience, especially following the unexpected loss of her husband six years ago, who was the farm’s primary manager. Faced with the daunting task of managing both the farm and the family as the sole breadwinner for her three school-aged children, she stepped up to maintain the farm’s operations. “It was a journey. I had to take over the family business because we had no choice,” she recounted.

Although she lacked formal agricultural training, Cavuka had learned while assisting her husband in running the farm. She credits much of her success to the groundwork he laid, emphasizing, “We always did things together. I learned from him, and with that knowledge, I was able to carry on after he passed.”

Years before his passing, they had decided to commercialize their land with a focus on growing pineapples, which they recognized as having great potential. This income was vital for covering not only farm expenses but also community obligations and church commitments. After her husband’s death, Cavuka continued this practice, relying on the farm as her family’s main source of income.

Inheriting her husband’s loan for the sugarcane farm added financial strain, as did the loss of his transportation services; she now pays others to move goods to market. Weather challenges, particularly in Lautoka’s dry and humid climate, further complicated operations. “When it rains, everything stops,” she noted, highlighting the struggles induced by the hillside location of the farm.

Yet, leveraging her market stall has proven essential in generating income and sustaining the farm’s workforce. “The stall became a lifeline for us,” she said, reflecting on its critical role during tough times.

Cavuka acknowledges the importance of external support and is a member of the South Pacific Business Development (SPBD), a microfinance network that aids women entrepreneurs in Fiji. “SPBD has been a great help. They’ve offered financial support and provided valuable business advice,” she stated.

Her journey is enriched by ongoing learning, not just from SPBD but also from fellow vendors at the market. “I may not have formal training in farming, but I’ve learned so much,” she said, emphasizing community learning.

Her three children have been supportive, understanding the significance of their father’s legacy. “My kids are grounded. They know the value of what their father left behind and are committed to ensuring the farm remains operational,” she shared, expressing gratitude for their support and the blessings she has received throughout her challenges.

Looking forward, Cavuka aspires to expand Yaukawa Farm further. A key goal is to purchase a vehicle to help mitigate transportation challenges. In her advice to other women in business, especially single mothers, she emphasizes the importance of cultivating resilience and a strong mindset to overcome difficulties.

In summary, Olivia Cavuka’s story illustrates not only personal perseverance but also the broader importance of women in agriculture and entrepreneurship in Fiji. Through grit, continuous learning, and community support, she has navigated significant adversities, embodying the hope and strength found in resilience.