AILAVA Samuels believes shopping is far more than a routine errand — it is an extension of family life, health awareness, and community values.
Born and raised in Nasinu, the 19-year-old comes from a richly connected background, with paternal roots in Siumu, Samoa, and maternal ties to Vanuavou, Vaturova, Cakaudrove, and Vabea in Ono, Kadavu.
As the eldest sibling of seven in a household of around 10 people, she said her role within the family has helped shape how she views responsibility, well-being, and everyday decisions such as grocery shopping.
“I live in Laucala Beach Estate with my parents, my grandmother, and my six siblings,” Ms Samuels said.
“Being the eldest, I’ve learned early how important it is to think about everyone, not just yourself.”
Ms Samuels also highlighted that she is deeply involved in community service, volunteering with the Nasinu Town Council and previously working alongside the Fiji Cancer Society.
She has also participated in the “Better Than This” campaign, which focused on supporting young people in schools across Nasinu.
She said her passion for giving back is reflected even in her approach to shopping — one that balances affordability, nutrition, and family needs.
The Samuels family primarily shops at Extra Supermarket in Laucala Beach Estate, chosen for its convenience and variety.
“It’s my preferred supermarket because it’s close to home and has almost everything we need in one place.”
With such a large household, she said shopping was carefully planned.
“Big grocery trips usually happen on payday and can last close to a month.”
“Because we’re a big family, we can spend up to around $1000 on groceries during our big shopping.
She explained that smaller trips are made in between when essentials run out.
Shopping is often a shared task among siblings.
“Most of the time I go shopping with my siblings. It really depends on who is free that day.”
She shared that their shopping list usually includes toiletries, canned and frozen foods, snacks, fresh baked goods, and other household necessities.
Fresh produce, however, is often sourced separately from local markets.
Her family regularly visits the market near Bailey Bridge and stalls around Centerpoint.
“We usually buy bok choy, long beans, pumpkin, carrots, cucumber, moca, cauliflower, and fruits like pawpaw and bananas,” she shared, adding that tomatoes and avocados are treated as special-occasion items.
Health is a major consideration in Ms Samuels’s shopping habits, influenced strongly by her grandmother, a nurse.
“Growing up, my grandmother always taught us the importance of being healthy and balancing our meals, so it became part of our lifestyle at home.”
But for Ms Samuels, health goes beyond diet.
“Physical activity is important, but mental health is just as important too.”
She maintains a simple fitness routine, starting her mornings with walks and ending many evenings with 100 abdominal exercises.
“I won’t lie — sometimes I miss a day, but I always try to stay consistent.”
Ms Samuels’s advise to shoppers is to try to make at least one healthy choice every time you shop.
She said even something small like choosing water instead of juice — those small choices add up.
Shopping remains a meaningful family activity for her.
“Shopping is always more fun when it’s done with family.
“It’s not just about buying things — it’s about caring for the people you live with.”
