For the past 28 years, Vinia Tabucegu has depended on her market vending business to support her family.
The woman of Saioko, Nakorotubu in Ra sells pineapples, root crops and fresh vegetables to rake in her daily income.
Now residing at Khalsa Rd with her family, Ms Tabucegu said market vending is her main source of income over the years, sustaining her household through both challenging and good times.
She said business has been well, particularly during the festive season, when demand for fresh produce increases.
Ms Tabucegu said her work at the market was more than just a means of earning an income, as it also allowed her to meet people and build lasting relationships with customers.
“I wish everyone the very best as we move into the beginning of the new year and hope that we all have a blessed year ahead,” she said.
During the school holidays, Ms Tabucegu is assisted at the market stall by her niece, Maria Rufina.
The secondary school student, who travelled from Ra to spend her holidays in Suva, said she also needed to earn to buy her school stationery and have some pocket money before the new school term begins.
“I’m currently a Year 11 student at Nakorotubu Secondary School, to begin Year 12 in 2026.
She said working at the market has taught her the value of hard work and perseverance.
“Nothing is hard in life, and I wish all my peers and everyone a blessed new year ahead.”
