WHO says one cannot make a good and successful career besides white collar and academic work?
"Not everyone can become a doctor or an academic and people should go for what they have a passion for and what interests them," says a living legend of local art, Samuela Cabe.
Better known as Sam, the inspirational man is a pioneer of art in Fiji.
The man from Nasaqalau in Lakeba, believes there is much in life people can do and make a living from but one often gets carried away with the "norm" followed by many people in society.
Sam, 42, is a professional jeweller, designer and a qualified water safety instructor.
"I have been interested in art ever since I was a child. I had interest in drawing, painting and designing. I was popular for it in high school and was recognised for my work," said the former Dudley student.
Sam got his first break after completing school when he was introduced to international jeweller John Davey, who is now the world's number one magician.
"He taught me how to make jewellery, do business and see the beauty of where this profession could take me. Since then I never looked back and my livelihood today depends on what I do.
Sam owns and runs Cabe's Creations from his Laucala Beach home.
"I also move around to do my business not only in Suva."
Some of his creations and designs include painting and designing clothes, cushion cover murals, wall-hanging, banner illustrations, notice board, etc.The artist buys some of his materials but sources most of it from nature.
Sam won the 2008 National Bra Art Competition organised by the Fiji Cancer Society. The freelance and qualified artist from the Fiji Institute of Technology was the Contemporary Crafts Person of the Year Award recipient in the National Craft Fair in 2004.
He was part of a delegation to the 9th Pacific Arts Festival in Palau in 2004.
Sam also attended several international art exhibitions in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. His creations are looked forward to by many at the popular Fiji Fashion Week. He also co-ordinated and looked after the fashion and design of the Melanesian Arts Festival in Fiji in 2006.
Apart from his achievements in the artistic world, Sam is a proud community helper who had been attached with Red Cross as a volunteer for a decade.
"I worked for Red Cross as a youth advocate, medical welfare officer and as a water safety instructor.
"There are a lot of people who are suffering out there and helping them makes me feel good about myself.
"Sharing my knowledge with others is very important. Sharing the little I know with others is very rewarding and satisfying," he said.
