7-Time Recipient Makes The Most Of His Opportunities
Ilaisa Doraisavu says the will to go an extra mile for the sake of his family’s well-being has been the reason behind going to New Zealand seven times under the Seasonal Workers Scheme.
Sunday 05 June 2022 | 11:50
Ilaisa Doraisavu says the will to go an extra mile for the sake of his family’s well-being has been the reason behind going to New Zealand seven times under the Seasonal Workers Scheme.
The 44-year-old of Wayalailai Island in the Yasawa Group was among 12 other men from his island to go to Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. They were part of the first lot of seasonal workers who went for fruit picking in 2015.
Since then, he has managed to extend his village house in the island with a monetary value of more than $5000, buy his own car worth $15,000 and also managed to support his children’s educational needs.
Related stories
Because of his exceptional work in 2015 as a first time recipient of the scheme, his employer has been calling him back to work ever since.
“The Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme has changed my life for the better, I have been going to New Zealand under the scheme from 2015 to 2021 and I am hoping to go there again,” he said.
Before going to New Zealand, Mr Doraisavu had a decent job in Fiji, however, his income was not enough to support his family.
“I used to work as a chef in the resort and earned about $150 per week which was not enough for my extended family,” he said.
Mr Doraisavu had to look after his grandfather who was alive at that time including his nieces and nephews who also lived with him.
On his first trip, he made sure that he prioritised his children’s education.
He has two children, one of whom is in high school now and the other in primary school.
“I lived on the island with my wife. The main plan was to bring my family to Suva to provide better education for my children,” he said.
“Fruit picking is not an easy job, during summer it’s hotter in New Zealand than it is in Fiji.”
He said it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of the Fijian Government and its New Zealand counterpart, enabling them to work in NZ to help their families back home.
Mr Doraisavu will use the money he earns to pay the rent of their house in Makoi and buy necessary items.
His advice to those who are working under the scheme is to use money wisely and avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
Feedback: sheenal.charan@fijisun.com.fj
