DRIVING has always been more than just a job for Aisea Rokosuka — it is a passion that has shaped his life and livelihood.
Since obtaining his driver’s license in 2013, Mr Rokosuka has spent years behind the wheel, navigating different paths that eventually led him to meaningful service in Kadavu.
“I’ve always loved driving,” he said.
“Ever since I got my license, I knew this was something I enjoyed and wanted to do long-term.”
Originally from Vanuadina Village in Tokatoka, Tailevu, Mr Rokosuka began in Suva, where he worked as a taxi driver.
He said the busy streets of the Capital City provided him with steady work and valuable experience.
However, his life took a new direction after he got married.
His wife is from Jioma Village in Kadavu, and the couple decided to relocate to the island to start their family there.
“When I got married, we talked about moving to Kadavu. My wife wanted to be closer to her family, and I was ready for a new chapter.”
After moving to Kadavu, Aisea found himself adjusting to a different life.
With fewer driving opportunities available, he transitioned into farming to support his growing family — which now consist of five children.
For several years, he worked the land, learning new skills and adapting to rural life.
“I went into farming because it helped us survive, and it taught me patience and hard work.”
Despite settling into farming, he said he never lost his love for driving.
After a few years, an opportunity arose that allowed him to return to what he loved most.
Together with his uncle, Aisea invested in a carrier vehicle to provide transportation services for villages in the area.
Today, he is a full-time driver for the carrier, which serves five villages in Kadavu.
The vehicle plays a vital role in the village, transporting school children to and from school and assisting elderly villagers with trips to hospital check-ups and other essential errands.
“This carrier isn’t just a vehicle — it’s a service for the people.
“We help children get to school safely, and our elders make it to their medical appointments when they need to.”
Aisea also shared that the main challenge faced were poor road conditions in certain areas.
He explained that when he first moved to Kadavu, many roads were difficult to travel on, especially during bad weather.
However, he acknowledged that road conditions have improved significantly over the years.
“Today, travelling between villages is much easier and safer, allowing me to provide transport services more efficiently.”
Aisea also expressed appreciation for the improvements, noting that better roads have made his work smoother and have benefited the wider community by improving access to schools, hospitals, and essential services.
He has been living in Jioma Village for the past seven years and its been a sweet journey.
Balancing family life with work can be demanding, but fulfilling serving the villagers.
“I enjoy every bit of this work.
“Knowing that I’m helping my fellow villagers keeps me motivated every day.”
The transport service has now been operating for a year, and Aisea says the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Villagers rely on the carrier not only for convenience but also for peace of mind, knowing they have dependable transportation available.
“It feels good to be part of something that really matters.”
“This service supports the village, and I’m glad I can contribute in my own way.”
Looking back on his journey — from taxi driving in Suva to farming, and now to running a community transport service — Aisea believes that perseverance and adaptability have been key to his success.
“Life doesn’t always go the way you plan.
“But if you stay open to change and keep working hard, opportunities will come.”
Aisea infront of the carrier that he uses for services in the village. Picture: ANASEINI DIMATE
