At just 28 years old, Shivnil Deo has made a pivotal life choice, prioritizing family responsibilities over his personal ambitions. A former student of Muaniweni College in Naitasiri, Shivnil once aspired to carve a successful career in engineering. However, as his father aged and the family’s farm required more attention, he made the difficult decision to put his studies on hold and return home.
Shivnil expressed his sense of duty, stating, “I wanted to engage in engineering, but I could not continue my studies because I had to help my dad on the farm.” This transition was not without its challenges. Farming demands relentless physical effort, and Shivnil recognizes that one day he will be solely responsible for the family land. He confidently asserts, “I am ready to step into my father’s big shoes.”
Influenced by his father’s teachings, Shivnil deeply values hard work, believing it to be the cornerstone of success. “My father raised me well. One thing he inculcated in me was the value of hard work and knowing that without it, success cannot be guaranteed,” he remarked.
While he does not plan to leave Muaniweni, Shivnil has ambitious plans to modernize and expand the family farm. He holds a strong emotional connection to the area, saying, “It was born here, and so were my father and my grandfather. This is our home and there is no other place that we know. Muaniweni is peaceful and stress-free, the best place to raise a family.”
Shivnil’s ties to his community are robust, as he knows many of his neighbors from school and maintains good relations with them. However, he acknowledges the need for more infrastructural support for farmers in Muaniweni. “Government could make better roads in Muaniweni to help farmers go to and from their farms,” he suggested. He recalled the logistical challenges his family faces, stating that they had to ferry three tractors on bamboo rafts to reach their farm.
For Shivnil Deo, farming represents more than just a means of livelihood; it embodies a legacy built on dedication and a steadfast connection to his roots. As he looks towards the future, his commitment to both his family and his community shines through, offering a hopeful glimpse into the potential for growth and prosperity in Muaniweni.
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