FOR 34-year-old Timasi Vuadreu, every sunrise marks the beginning of another day of hard work, determination and sacrifice.
Behind the wheel of his taxi, navigating the busy streets of Suva, he is driven by one purpose to provide a better life for his family.
Originally from Kadavu and now residing in Lami Village, Timasi has spent the past 10 years working as a taxi driver along the Suva–Lami corridor.
After years of operating from Lami Town, he recently joined Black Arrow Taxi and Tours in Suva City, where he has been based for the last three months.
His day begins long before most people are awake.
“I start work around 4 or 4:30 every morning and usually finish at about 10 at night,” he says.
“It’s a long day, but when you have a family depending on you, the hustle always comes first.
Timasi is a proud husband and father of two.
Supporting his wife and children is what motivates him to keep going, even on the longest and most challenging days.
“Life is not easy these days,” he explains. “The cost of living keeps going up, fuel prices continue to rise, and everything is becoming more expensive. Like everyone else, we’re feeling the pressure, but we have to keep working and do our best.”
While many see taxis as simply a way to get from one place to another, for drivers like Timasi, every journey comes with its own challenges.
“Driving in the city isn’t always easy, one of the biggest issues we face is passengers who leave without paying, especially during the night.
“That’s why we always have to stay alert and be careful while we’re working.”
Despite those challenges, Timasi says the job has also given him something valuable lasting relationships with the people he serves.
“After driving for so many years, you build trust with your customers. I have regular passengers who call me whenever they need a ride. Some have become like friends. T
Those bookings help keep me busy, and I’m grateful for their support.
The rising cost of fuel remains one of the biggest concerns for taxi operators across the country, but Timasi believes there is little choice except to keep moving forward.
“We can’t control fuel prices, all we can do is hope things improve and continue working because our families depend on us.
For Timasi, being a taxi driver is much more than a profession it’s a commitment to serving others while providing for those he loves.
“The life of a taxi driver is always busy. At any time, you can receive a call for a job, and you have to be ready.
“This work isn’t for everyone. You need patience, passion, and a strong work ethic.”
Looking back, Timasi says becoming a taxi driver was always his dream.
“When I was younger, I wanted to become a taxi driver. Over the last 10 years, I’ve experienced many ups and downs, but I don’t regret it.
This job has looked after my family, and that’s something I’m proud of.” As someone who has built a career behind the wheel, Timasi also has a message for young people searching for direction.
“Not everyone succeeds in academics, and that’s okay,” he says.
“If driving is something you’re interested in, get your licence, work hard, and be responsible.
This job has provided for my family, and it can also provide for yours.”
As Suva wakes each morning, thousands of people rely on taxi drivers to get them safely to work, school, appointments, and home again.
For Timasi Vuadreu, every trip is more than just another fare it is another opportunity to put food on the table, support his children, and prove that honest work, determination, and perseverance can take a family a long way.
For Timasi Vuadreu, every trip is more than just another fare it is another opportunity to put food on the table.
Picture: JOHN CHETTY
