Every sunrise comes with a day unique in its set of challenges.
But to support her family and realise a dream of getting a better paid job, Akosita Lomawai pushes through her hurdles.
She is a trusted face among Raiwaqa market vendors and customers, always ready to help people with their food needs – whether for a special cultural event or a simple home meal.
Behind Akosita’s determined spirit is a story rooted in love and responsibility.
“I find peace in my market work. Many people come to buy from me, and on a good day, I can earn around $350,” she said.
“I buy directly from farmers early in the morning and rush back to Raiwaqa to set up my stall. By 9am, everything is already prepared, displayed and ready for customers.”
As a vegetable and fruit vendor, she has dedicated herself to market routines like rushing to get her share of produce from farmers, in the cover of darkness.
She sells a selection of bananas, plantains, and a variety of fresh local vegetables like Chinese cabbage, rourou (taro leaves), bele, moca, as well as root crops such as dalo (taro) and tavioka (cassava).
Akosita and her husband have one biological child, now in Year 2. They have three other children under their care.
The Naceva villager from Cicia in Lau is a forward-thinker. While she uses her income to support her family and fund communal obligations, she also makes sure she saves enough for rainy days.
“Everything from our market earnings goes towards family, church and village obligations. I also help my husband whenever needed,” she added.
Akosita’s dreams don’t stop at the market. She has already completed her first year of business studies at the Fiji National University and plans to finish her diploma in business.
“I just want to encourage women in Fiji – let us not neglect our responsibilities. We play an important role in supporting our husbands and our families,” she said.
Akosita stands as a shining example of the brand of strength that Fijian women possess.
She proves that with faith and perseverance, even the humblest of market stalls can become a place of inspiration.
