Sera Kula, originally from Natauloa Village in Nairai, now resides in Waitolu Village in Naitasiri with her husband and grandchildren. She has been a dedicated vendor at the Nausori market every Friday and Saturday for several years, selling kumala (sweet potatoes) and other seasonal crops, which form her family’s primary source of income.
To ensure a successful market day, Sera and fellow village vendors travel to Nausori on Thursdays, spending the night in a designated area provided by the Nausori Town Council. Her journey is challenging, involving multiple modes of transportation and long hours of travel, yet she remains committed and believes that hard work and dedication are crucial for her family’s support.
Each week, Sera purchases approximately 10 bags of kumala and various other crops to sell at the market. Despite rising crop prices, she adapts and seeks ways to sustain her livelihood. She faces challenges with unpredictable crop prices, often finding them higher than anticipated, which complicates her efforts to make a significant profit. Sera meticulously manages her expenses to sell her produce at a fair yet profitable price.
Her work not only supports her family but also contributes to the local economy by providing fresh produce to the community, especially for those without direct access to farming. Sera takes great pride in her role as a market vendor, recognizing the positive impact she has on the lives of many.
Additionally, her family plays a crucial part in maintaining their plantation. With six family members living together, they understand the value of collective effort, known as solesolevaki. Sera emphasizes that their cooperation in cultivating crops ensures a steady supply for her market business, reinforcing their family bond and enabling them to navigate challenges together.