Sera Kula, originally from Natauloa Village in Nairai, now resides in Waitolu Village, Naitasiri, with her husband and grandchildren. For several years, she has been selling kumala (sweet potatoes) and other seasonal crops at the Nausori market on Fridays and Saturdays, a vital source of income for her family despite the many challenges she faces.
To ensure she is prepared for market day, Sera and fellow vendors travel to Nausori on Thursdays, where they spend the night in a space provided by the Nausori Town Council. The journey from Waitolu Village to Nausori is arduous, involving multiple modes of transportation and lengthy travel times, yet she remains resilient, believing that hard work is essential for supporting her family.
Each week, Sera purchases about 10 bags of kumala, along with other crops to sell. Although rising prices of produce create obstacles, she adapts her strategies to sustain her income. One significant challenge is the fluctuating prices from farmers, which can often exceed her expectations, hindering her ability to make a substantial profit. Nonetheless, she meticulously manages her expenses and aims to sell her crops at a price that is both fair and profitable.
Sera is aware that her work not only provides for her family but also supports the local economy. By selling kumala and other crops, she helps meet the nutritional needs of community members, particularly those without access to fresh produce.
She takes great pride in her role as a market vendor, recognizing the positive impact her efforts have on people’s lives. Sera’s family also plays an essential role in assisting her with farming duties, as they collectively understand the importance of working together. With six family members living under one roof, they are committed to maintaining and cultivating crops, ensuring a steady supply for her market activities.
“This interdependence within the family not only strengthens our bond but also allows us to overcome any hurdles that come our way,” she said.