Evacuation doesn’t stop livelihood for Waqana mother

Flooding caused by Tropical Cyclone Vaianu has not stopped Alisia Ravouvou from continuing her livelihood.

The Waqana Settlement resident is among about 50 evacuees sheltering at Nadi Muslim College since Monday after floodwaters inundated homes in her community.

When a Fiji Sun team visited the evacuation centre, Ms Ravouvou stood out.

While others rested, she continued working on her art, making salusalu (garlands) and children’s clothing, which she sells to support her family.

She said resilience and livelihood were key, adding that she would continue earning through her art.

“Wherever I am or whatever happens, I will continue to do what I love most,” she said.

“I love art. I make salusalu and children’s clothes every day and sell them at market stall number 18. A few people depend on this.”

Her son, Waisea Waqavanua, of Waya, Yalobi in Yasawa, said flooding in their area was a recurring problem.

“Our homes get flooded and the drain is too small, which causes the flooding,” he said.

He is hopeful authorities will assess the situation and provide a solution.