Peniana Matai is making the most of her daily endeavors as a market vendor, successfully generating immediate cash despite facing stiff competition. Three years ago, she made the bold decision to leave her casual job and immerse herself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Suva Municipal Market.
As the primary provider for her family, including her husband and four children, Ms. Matai has found the transition challenging yet rewarding. She shares, “Being a market vendor has opened many opportunities, and I’ve met amazing people while doing business.” On a good day, her earnings can reach up to $300, significantly surpassing her former fortnightly income.
While the rewards are commendable, the job is not without its hurdles. Monthly fluctuations in seafood prices are common, driven by high customer demand and the efforts required to procure items like sea grapes and crabs. At the Suva market, sea grapes (locally known as nama) are priced between $2 and $5 depending on plate size, whereas crabs cooked in coconut milk are offered for $5.
Alongside Ms. Matai, Tokasa Wati, an experienced dalo seller from Lomai Vuna in Naitasiri, is also finding great success in the market. After leaving school, she embraced farming, starting with watermelons before expanding into dalo cultivation. Now, during peak season, her earnings can reach up to $3,000 weekly. With a four-acre farm located a four-hour truck ride from her village, she also harvests corn, pumpkins, and green vegetables.
“Farming has been a blessing,” Ms. Wati states, noting that this income allows her to support her children’s education and meet family needs. She inspires others, especially young people, to utilize their land as a means to secure their futures. “Every iTaukei person owns land, so there’s no excuse not to make money,” she emphasizes. Her bundles of dalo retail for $20 to $30, and her story of resilience serves as a motivating narrative for many aspiring entrepreneurs.
In summary, both Peniana Matai and Tokasa Wati exemplify resilience and determination in their businesses, showcasing the potential of market entrepreneurship. Their experiences not only highlight the economic opportunities available within local markets but also encourage others to explore similar paths. With hard work and creativity, they both illustrate how individuals can thrive and support their families amidst challenges, providing a hopeful outlook for others looking to follow in their footsteps.
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