USP student balances studies and family pizza business to support family

University of the South Pacific student Rachel Deo has been helping her family sell pizzas at carnivals and sporting events around Labasa since she was in Class Seven.

Ms Deo, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Primary Education, says helping with the family business has taught her the value of hard work from a young age.

“I have been helping my parents sell pizza ever since I was in Class Seven,” she said.

Growing up, Ms Deo watched her older siblings assist with the family business, which inspired her to follow in their footsteps.

“I’m the youngest of four siblings, and my older brothers and sister used to do the same while growing up.

“Today, they are all successful, and that motivates me,” she said.

Balancing her studies with helping the family business has not always been easy.

Ms Deo admitted there were times when she struggled to complete assignments on time because of her responsibilities at home.

“There were days when my tutor would be upset because I had not completed my work on time, and I would have to explain that I was helping my family,” she said.

Despite the challenges, she enjoys helping out and takes pride in contributing to the family business.

“I’ve been doing this for nearly 10 years now, carrying large pizza boxes around town is no big deal for me.

“It’s something I’ve grown up doing and I enjoy it,” she said.

Ms Deo said one of her biggest goals is to financially support her father, who has worked tirelessly to provide for their family.

She hopes that when she becomes successful, she will be able to repay him for the sacrifices he has made over the years.

“My father owns a home-based business, and we would see him continue trying to sell even on days when there were not many customers, he would still make the effort,” she said.

“Seeing how hard he worked to provide for us motivates me. I hope that one day I can give back to him and allow him early retirement.”

She encouraged young people who help their families through small businesses not to feel embarrassed about their work.

“No one is going to come and do it for you or your family. It’s up to you to help where you can and work hard for what you want,” she said.