Resilience in Action: One Mother’s Journey to a Fulfilling Future

Eka Vonuwa, a dedicated mother of three, is currently volunteering at the Ministry of Youth and Sports at the Naleba Training Centre in Labasa, where she is actively gaining valuable experience in office administration and customer service. Previously, she contributed her skills at Volivoli Primary School as a trainee office administrator, managing tasks such as recording trainee enrolment, assisting with invoice collection, delivering Local Purchase Orders, and managing correspondence with youth.

Vonuwa expressed optimism about her future job prospects, reflecting on her recent participation in a clerical officer test at the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources in Labasa. “Life is hard, and getting a job to support my family remains both my dream and responsibility,” she shared. Her commitment extends beyond administrative duties; she recently completed a three-day training on livestock management, organic farming, and nursery practices, planning to use this knowledge to create a cluster group to implement her organic farming skills.

Her aspirations echo a broader trend noted in similar stories of individuals pursuing agricultural education and careers. Like Ana Yabakivou from Nabubu Village, who recently graduated with a Certificate IV in Organic Agriculture, Vonuwa’s journey underscores resilience in the face of adversity. Yabakivou’s determination to support her family after setbacks in her education highlights a common drive among many young people in the region.

Additionally, stories of people like Ana Vetau, who found a fulfilling career in farming despite initially seeking work in the hotel industry, illustrate the importance of adaptability and hard work. Vetau’s experience resonates with Vonuwa’s pursuit of a clerical job while simultaneously engaging in agricultural practices.

These stories reflect a hopeful narrative of perseverance and the potential for self-sufficiency through agriculture, encouraging others to make the most of available resources. With determination, support, and training, individuals like Eka Vonuwa are paving their way toward brighter futures, contributing not only to their families but also to their communities.