Having a positive attitude goes a long way towards overcoming the challenges of life.

That’s the philosophy of Litea Waqa’s family when they moved from Ba to settle in Dratabu Village, Togamasi, in Nadi four years ago.

Ms Waqa, 38, mother of three from Bukuya, Ba, said they moved to find a better life. But when they arrived in Nadi they discovered that it was not easy.

Through prayers and by staying happy and content the family still tackle hurdles that came their way.

“My husband bought a piece of land here three years ago and we built this small house by picking loose timber and tins around the neighbourhood,” she said.

“There are eight of us living in this small room. There were some young girls who didn’t have a place to stay so we welcomed them to our home.”

She said the available resources they could get kept them going.

“We make use of the land around us by planting some vegetables, but the difficulty that we face here is water,” she said.

“We have to draw water from the river for drinking and cooking.

“Before we used to get drinking water from our neighbour and we had to give them $30 a month, but sometimes we could not afford that.

“It can be difficult for a family like ours.”

Ms Waqa is hopeful of a better future for her children.

“We were lucky that my husband got a job last month and the income he receives helps us through our daily needs,” she said.

“I’m hoping for a better future for my two children because both were early school leavers.

“I know there are opportunities given for school dropouts, but we are still building our lives here and still striving for a better life.”

Edited by Percy Kean

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