Many individuals often look down on the profession of collecting rubbish, viewing it as a dirty job deserving of disdain. However, without waste collectors, our towns and cities would be overwhelmed by refuse.
Iosefo Waqatabu, an employee of the Savusavu Town Council, has discovered joy in his role as a trash collector. Three years ago, with limited education and job opportunities, rubbish collection became essential for his survival. It provided him with food, covered his bills, and has now become a source of happiness.
“I love my job and it makes me happy. It helped me survive when I needed a lifeline,” Iosefo stated. “With whatever little I earn, I am able to pay for my bills, buy food and take part in village, family, and church activities.”
Iosefo’s work routine requires him to rise early. By the time the coastal town of Savusavu begins its day, he is actively ensuring the streets are clean by collecting garbage from bins along the roadside. He puts in six days of work each week.
“I do a job that people look down on,” he reflected. Initially, when he began three years ago, Iosefo felt shy and embarrassed about working with rubbish, dealing with flies and unpleasant odors. However, his perspective shifted over time. “I decided to change my mindset and have pride in my work. Now, despite what others think, I understand the importance of what I do.”
“I don’t mean to boast, but without rubbish collectors, Savusavu wouldn’t be clean, tidy, and beautiful,” he added.
Iosefo expresses concern over the attitudes of some community members and their lack of civic pride. He advocates for educating people on the consequences of their carelessness toward the environment.
“I work from 6 am to 4 pm with breaks in between, but it’s surprising that there’s always rubbish to collect,” he said. “I think people should change how they handle the waste they create. While rubbish is inevitable, it should be disposed of with consideration for the environment, land, and sea.”
As a seaside town reliant on tourism, Iosefo believes collaboration between local residents and the municipal council is vital. He insists that no one should feel shame in their work if it helps provide for them and their families.
“Despite the dirt and smell I deal with, I remind myself that my job is special,” he remarked. “I believe that regardless of the job assigned to you, it should be done to the best of your ability.”
Rubbish collectors like Iosefo are crucial to the health and safety of local communities and play an important role in environmental sustainability. They deserve recognition and respect for their hard work.
Iosefo, who is originally from Votua, Ba, lives in Savusavu with his wife from Urata Village, and they share one child.