TWO young women who spent years living on the streets of Suva now own a business and have a roof over their heads, all made possible in a single day.
Susana Baleira and Watelaite Mawamawa, both in their early 20s, were officially handed over a kiosk and housing assistance last week by Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa.
The handover marks a turning point in their lives after years of homelessness and hardship.
The new kiosk, constructed near the Suva Municipal Market by the Suva City Council, will serve as the women’s small business outlet, offering them a stable source of income.
In addition, the Public Rental Board (PRB) is providing the pair with a rental flat, ensuring they no longer have to sleep on park benches or bus stops.
In an emotional address during the handover, Mr Nalumisa reflected on his personal encounter with the women earlier this year at Thurston Garden.
“While conversing with them, I was saddened by what they go through daily, their struggles and uncertainty of what the next day would bring,” he said.
He spoke candidly about the broader issue of youth street dwellers in Fiji, highlighting the harsh realities they face, including poverty, abuse, neglect, and substance abuse.
“Life on the streets for these young people is not just hard, it’s heartbreaking.
“Their beds are pavements, bus stops, markets, or park benches. Their days are filled with begging, selling small items, or simply wandering, trying to survive.”
