Ana Vetau once envisioned a career in the hotel industry, but her life took a different turn after marrying and assisting her husband on their farm. She discovered a passion for farming and enjoyed selling her produce at the market.
At 35 years old, the Narata Village resident in Nadroga has become well-known for her boiled corn sales outside the Suva Municipal Market, near the bus stand. Vetau emphasizes the importance of hard work in achieving success in life.
After completing her Form 6, she pursued studies at the School of Hospitality, driven by her aspiration to work in hotels. She even completed an internship at Marina Apartment in Lami. However, after marrying in Nadroga, Vetau joined her husband’s farming efforts and found joy in the work.
“I was born in Namosi and always had a love for farming,” she said. “When I joined my husband, it became a fulfilling hobby. Harvesting crops and selling them in the market brings me pride and satisfaction.”
Despite her enjoyment of farming, Ms. Vetau acknowledges the challenges it presents, particularly adverse weather conditions and climate change. “Floods and droughts can severely affect our produce, and sometimes, we lose everything to floods,” she explained. “Maintaining a steady supply is crucial for our income, and at times, we have to buy from other farmers when our own crops run low.”
Working on the farm also contributes to a healthy lifestyle, as she and her children get regular exercise while growing fresh vegetables. She encourages people to utilize their land, advising them against leaving it idle.
“Using your land for agriculture can yield great benefits,” Vetau stated. “It’s rewarding to see your hard work pay off, and it inspires me to keep going. I urge youths, especially those struggling to find jobs, to consider farming as a viable option.”