Lately, the sound of running water blaring music, the scent of cleaning chemicals and the hum of passing traffic have become part of Camari Adiseuga Vere’s daily routine.
At 29, she spends her days washing, scrubbing and polishing vehicles at her family’s car wash in Korovou, Tailevu.
It is honest work, and she does it with pride. But beneath the satisfaction she gives her customers, is a dream that refuses to go away.
Camari once dreamed of becoming an automotive engineer.
That dream was put on hold when she dropped out of school in Form Six because of personal problems at home.
For many, this would have marked the end of their ambitions.
For Camari, it simply meant taking a different road.
Today, she helps her father operate the family-owned car wash, serving loyal customers who return because of the quality of service they receive. Others stop in after noticing the business while driving through Korovou.
Prices range from $10 to $40, depending on the size of the vehicle. Every automobile is treated with the same care, whether it is a small car or a large truck
“There are busy days and there are slow days,” she said.
“But that doesn’t change how we serve our customers. We always give our best because we want them to come back and choose us again.”
Like many small business owners, the family has had to adjust to rising operating costs.
The recent increase in fuel prices has also affected the cost of running the business, but Camari said most customers understood the reasons behind the price adjustments.
The car wash enjoys a peaceful setting beside the river, surrounded by greenery, offering customers the perfect place to de-stress while their vehicles are cleaned. Although she spends her days washing cars, her interest has always been in understanding how they work.
As a young girl, she often watched her father repair vehicles. Those moments sparked a fascination with engines and mechanics that has stayed with her ever since. She still hopes to one day return to school and fulfil her childhood dream of becoming an automotive engineer.
“It would be nice to go back to school,” she said.
“But for now, my focus is helping with the car wash until dad is able to manage the business on his own.”
She also has plans to improve the business by building a comfortable seating area where customers can relax while waiting for their vehicles.
Her message to young people who have dropped out of school is:”Never look down on yourself. Never give up in life.
“Find a way to overcome your problems and keep working hard.
“You can become whatever you want to be.
“Believe in yourself, and one day you will get there.”
