Vendors Thrive

Despite stiff competition, Peniana Matai is deter­mined to make the most of each day as a market vendor, aim­ing to generate immediate cash­and succeeding.

Three years ago, she left her job as a casual worker and took a leap of faith to join the bustling Suva Mu­nicipal Market.

"As the sole breadwinner, sup­porting my husband and four chil­dren hasn't been easy," she said.

"But being a market vendor has opened many opportunities, and I've met amazing people while do­ing business."

On a good day, Ms Matai earns up to $300-an income far exceeding her previous fortnightly paycheck.

However, the work isn't without challenges, as seafood prices fluctu­ate monthly due to high customer demand and the effort required to source products like sea grapes and crabs.

Seafood prices at the Suva mar­ket are reasonable, with sea grapes (nama) priced between $2 and $5, depending on plate size, and crabs in coconut milk available for $5.

A typical busy market day in Suva. Photo: Sosiveta Korobiau

Across the market, dalo seller Tokasa Wati, who has over a decade of experience, is also thriving.

Ms Wati hails from Lomai Vuna in Naitasiri's highlands and turned to farming after leaving school.

Starting with watermelons, she expanded to dalo farming, now earning up to $3000 per week dur­ing peak season.

Her four-acre farm, a four-hour truck ride from her village, also yields corn, pumpkins, and green vegetables. "Farming has been a blessing," Ms Wati said.

"This in­come allows me to send all four of my children to school and meet family expenses."

She encourages young people to use their land to secure a future.

"Every iTaukei person owns land, so there's no excuse not to make money. If academics aren't your strength, look at what's around you," she advised.

Ms Wati's dalo bundles sell for $20 to $30, and her story of resilience and resourcefulness is an inspiration to many.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun. com.fj