Peniana Matai is embracing her role as a market vendor with determination, despite the challenges posed by competition. After leaving her casual job three years ago, Matai took a leap of faith and joined the vibrant Suva Municipal Market. As the primary provider for her husband and four children, she has faced numerous challenges but finds fulfillment in her new venture.
“Being a market vendor has opened many opportunities, and I’ve met amazing people while doing business,” Matai shared. On a good selling day, she can earn up to $300, significantly surpassing what she earned in her previous fortnightly paycheck.
However, her experience comes with its share of challenges, particularly the fluctuating seafood prices driven by high demand and the logistics of sourcing popular items like sea grapes and crabs. Prices at the Suva market are generally reasonable, with sea grapes priced at $2 to $5, while crabs in coconut milk are available for $5 each.
Across the market, Tokasa Wati, an experienced vendor and dalo seller, is also enjoying success. With over ten years in the industry, she transitioned to farming after her school years. Starting with watermelons, she expanded her operations and now earns up to $3000 weekly during the peak season from her four-acre farm, which produces various crops including corn and pumpkins.
“Farming has been a blessing,” Wati remarked. Her income allows her to provide for her children’s education and family needs. She encourages young individuals to utilize their land effectively, stating, “Every iTaukei person owns land, so there’s no excuse not to make money. If academics aren’t your strength, look at what’s around you.”
Wati’s bundles of dalo sell for $20 to $30 each, and her journey serves as a source of inspiration for many, showcasing resilience and creativity.
In summary, both Peniana Matai and Tokasa Wati demonstrate the power of perseverance and the positive impact of engaging in local markets. Their stories highlight not only the potential for personal success but also the importance of community and resourcefulness in achieving economic empowerment. As they forge ahead, their journeys inspire others to follow suit, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and stability.
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