At a busy bus stand in the capital, 20-year-old Asenaca Marama is ready to serve her next customer at her grandfather’s juice stand. This venture has become a crucial source of support for her family over the years, providing food and meeting various needs.
As a former student of Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School and the fifth child in a family of six, Marama has always demonstrated a strong work ethic. Despite facing difficulties during her childhood, where her father was the sole breadwinner and the family often struggled for basics like food, she remained determined and optimistic.
“Life was tough when I was a child,” Marama acknowledged. “Sometimes there was no food at home and other times we had no food for school lunches.”
However, these challenges motivated her to become resilient. “I am hardworking, independent, funny, and a bit crazy,” she shared. Running the juice business has taught her the importance of perseverance.
Marama often receives encouragement from her grandfather, who plays a vital role in her life. “He invites me to church and reminds me to trust in God,” she said, explaining her approach to dealing with negativity. “When I hear hurtful words from others, I pray for them.”
Beyond simply running the stand, Marama sees herself as a source of comfort for customers having tough days. “I offer juice to customers who are feeling down, helping them relax and sometimes leading to heartfelt conversations.”
Working six days a week, she enjoys spending her free time dancing, singing, and playing volleyball and netball, and is currently learning the guitar.
Expressing her gratitude, Marama credits her parents and grandfather for their unwavering support. “If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I also appreciate my friends for being there during difficult times.”
To her peers, Marama offers inspiring advice: maintain a positive outlook and remember that challenges “do not last forever.”