Sixty-year-old Peniasi Dobui exemplifies resilience and determination in his life despite living with a disability. After losing both legs in an accident at the age of 25, Peniasi has not only adapted to life without them but has also successfully provided for his family over the years.
Residing in Nasigatoka, Rewa, he draws strength from the support of his wife, Vasemaca, and their daughter, Keresi Gabriel Dobui. Peniasi reflects on his journey, stating, “It was in 1990, and I had returned home from Lebanon for a short leave when the accident happened during my first day of work in a factory.” Yet, he expresses gratitude for being alive and strives to inspire others with disabilities to maintain hope and perseverance.
Life after the accident posed challenges, making even basic activities difficult. However, after spending three years at Tamavua hospital with the aid of a Japanese expert, he returned to his village to forge a new life. In 1995, he took up farming to support his family, learning to adapt his methods to accommodate his physical limitations.
Peniasi faced significant initial challenges in farming but learned to navigate them with determination. “My experience was never a bed of roses, but I trained myself to keep believing that there is always a silver lining,” he remarked. His farming efforts have flourished as he works solely to provide for his family and has even constructed a canteen and purchased a car through his earnings.
Embracing modern agricultural practices, Peniasi has implemented innovative methods such as a weed control maze and a nursery for his vegetables, which he enhanced with materials sent from his brother abroad. These advancements improved his farming efficiency and reduced labor strain.
Peniasi’s farm is flourishing with dalo, watermelons, and various vegetables, and his hard work has inspired many in his community, where relatives and neighbors order produce from him. He emphasizes that life continues after adversity and encourages others with disabilities to discover their latent talents and break barriers.
In addressing able-bodied individuals, he urges them to utilize the land in their villages rather than loitering in urban areas. “Return to your villages and make use of the land; loitering in urban centers can lead to trouble,” he stated.
Grateful for the support from his family and community, Peniasi plans to expand his farming by planting more varieties, including tomatoes and cabbages. Agricultural Assistant Sowinden Tekairaba has acknowledged his efforts, stating that assistance is available for people with disabilities, and plans to assist him further in the coming financial year.
Currently, Peniasi has cultivated 1,700 dalo and is expanding his tomato crop. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that true success comes from overcoming challenges and making a positive impact, inspiring others to pursue their own growth and achievements.