SAILASA Kalourua emphasizes that shopping transcends merely filling a cart; it is a strategic routine that promotes a healthy lifestyle for his family. Residing on Charles Street in Toorak with his mother and aunties, Mr. Kalourua hails from Namuka, Nakelo in Tailevu and plays a key role in managing household necessities.
As a single individual, he frequently takes his nieces grocery shopping, although they sometimes find the meticulous process tiring. “My nieces get tired of shopping with me because I like to be very organised,” he shared. Mr. Kalourua always prepares by making shopping lists and choosing a supermarket in advance.
For the past nine years, he has worked at the Fiji Hotels and Tourism Association and the Fiji Commerce Employers Federation, supporting the country’s tourism and hospitality sector, along with private organizations. His commitments extend beyond work; he is also pursuing studies in accounting at the University of the South Pacific, attending classes three times a week after work. “Planning is very important for me,” he noted.
With a weekly budget of $60 to $80, he intelligently compares prices and locations to make the most of his funds, which cover supermarket product purchases, market produce, and fish. Although he enjoys online shopping through platforms like Super Store, he prefers MaxValue in Flagstaff for its appealing deals, especially on essentials like Orchid Twin Pack paper towels, and meat selections such as lamb neck, chicken thighs, and Crest whole chickens.
Fresh produce shopping takes him to the Suva Municipal Market, where he appreciates the freshly supplied goods and lower prices compared to buying from middlemen later in the day. He typically spends around $20 to $30 weekly at the market, purchasing cabbage, carrots, and other seasonal vegetables, which he prepares for storage at home through careful packing in ziplock bags to maintain freshness.
Prioritizing healthy living, Mr. Kalourua believes that nutritious shopping is vital for his family’s well-being. He stated, “Eating fresh food helps us save on medical costs and supports a better lifestyle overall.” To further encourage health, he cultivates a backyard garden where crops like bele and vudi are nurtured, contributing to their diet with homegrown produce.
In his view, health hinges on daily habits. He advises that maintaining good health is achievable through regular exercise—be it walking, jogging, or household chores—adequate sleep, hydration, and stress management. Mr. Kalourua follows his own guidance by exercising every morning and on Wednesday afternoons, helping him stay active.
He encourages shoppers to plan ahead and accompany their purchases with a well-thought-out list to avoid buying unneeded items. He stresses the importance of checking the freshness of fruits and vegetables, reading food labels, and comparing prices to secure the best value. “Even small changes, like choosing fresh produce or growing your own vegetables, can make a big difference,” Mr. Kalourua remarked. His outlook is bright, asserting that such choices contribute significantly to everyone’s health and well-being.
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