Many offices use mentoring programmes to help employees grow.
But in Muaniweni, Naitasiri, a farmer and his labourer have shown that mentorship can happen anywhere — even on a kumala farm. All that is needed are two willing hearts.
For the past two years, Mitieli Waqa of Gusuisavu, Naitasiri, has been quietly learning the finer details of farming under the guidance of seasoned farmer Sher Narayan.
“We are both farmers, but I also work as a labourer for Mr Narayan,” Mitieli said.
“Two things that I want to master while working for him are proper time usage and financial management, particularly how to save money. For years, he has shared his knowledge with me and I value his advice and expertise.”
Mitieli left Muaniweni College at Form 6 with dreams of pursuing a career in engineering. But like many young people who leave school early, his ambitions were cut short when his parents could not afford to support his studies.
When all doors seemed to close, he turned to the land.
“When I was young, I didn’t really take farming seriously and looked at it as a source of food only and not as a serious source of income,” he said.
“I’ve realised now that there is money in farming. It can make you rich, you just need to be dedicated and very hardworking.”
After years of working alongside his mentor, Mitieli decided it was time to follow in his footsteps.
He started his own farm, which now boasts more than 1,000 dalo plants, along with kumala, tavioka and assorted vegetables.
During planting and harvesting seasons, Mitieli continues to work as a labourer on Mr Narayan’s farm. Over time, their working relationship has grown into a strong friendship.
The young father has also started a savings plan which he follows prudently.
“He is my friend, very hardworking and always willing to learn,” Mr Narayan said.
“It is a privilege to both teach and employ him as a labourer and as a friend.”
To motivate him, Mitieli draws his inspiration from his daughter. He wants her to live a comfortable life and receive the best education money can provide.
“I am not doing this for myself but for my daughter. I see education as an investment, that is why I am doing this,” he said.
His message to young people is simpl: work hard.
“If you are not strong academically and have fallen out of the school system, know that you can turn to the land. You just have to work hard,” he said.
“If you are unemployed, don’t be a burden in the towns and cities. Go back to your village and farm the land, it will teach you great things. Make use of your time and don’t forget to save money for the rainy days.”
(L-R) Mitieli Waqa and his mentor, Sher Narayan, in Muaniweni, Naitasiri. Picture: JOHN KAMEA
Dalo plots in Muaniweni , Naitasiri. Picture: JOHN KAMEA
