In Suva City, three resilient women from the Western Division are overcoming rainy weather to sell mangoes and support their families. Anaise Gucake, Sereima Sabeta, and Laisiana Tinaitukana each have unique stories that highlight their determination and resourcefulness.
Anaise Gucake, aged 55, travels from Vadravadra Village in Ba to Suva, often making this journey at night to set up her mango stand early in the morning. She expresses gratitude to the owner of Integrated Restaurant for allowing her to sell mangoes at Walu Bay and providing restroom access. Despite incurring $45 in bus fare to bring her produce to the city, she has the potential to earn about $300 from her sales, showing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Similarly, Sereima Sabeta, 52, has become the primary provider for her family due to a decline in her sugarcane cutting job. She turned to selling mangoes as a necessary means to sustain her household. With transportation costs for larger quantities being prohibitively high, she and her peers have opted to sell in Suva to access a market with demand for their fruit.
Laisiana Tinaitukana, also 52, contributes to the effort by joining her fellow sellers at the same location after traveling from Naivicula Village. She began selling mangoes this season after typically offering root crops and vegetables in Nausori. With sales going well, she feels fortunate to earn a good income to support her family during another fruitful mango season.
The unwavering commitment of these women to their entrepreneurial ventures demonstrates their strength and perseverance. Their willingness to face adverse weather in pursuit of their goals is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women and the importance of community support in challenging times.
These women not only serve as examples of resilience but also highlight the value of small businesses in local economies. Their efforts remind us of the potential for success and the positive impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities.
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