DREAMS are not only born in classrooms and offices.
If the mind is willing, prosperity can also be founded on a dusty roadside.
For the past one month, Maria Luisa, mother of two, has been starting work as early as 6am, arranging bundles of fresh vegetables at her roadside stall, waiting for the day’s first customers.
To passing motorists, it may seem like just another roadside market.
But for the mother of two, every sale represents a chance to pay household bills, put food on the table and invest in her children’s future.
Maria never imagined the roadside would become her workplace.
Having left school early and struggled to find stable employment, she knows what it feels like to be judged by circumstances beyond her control.
Today, however, she has a different message for others facing similar challenges.
“Dropping out of school and being unemployed should not define you,” she said.
Just a month ago, Maria opened her small roadside business, selling fresh farm produce to earn an income for her family.
“I am doing this not for any grand purpose,” she said.
“I just want to help with the family’s daily expenses and bills.”
Like many small business owners, Maria’s week follows a predictable routine.
Tuesdays begin before sunrise as she travels to the Nausori and Suva markets to buy fresh produce from wholesalers.
By the end of the week, her roadside stall is stocked with vegetables ready for loyal customers.
Fridays and Saturdays are her busiest days, often bringing in more than $100 in sales.
Although she sometimes feels shy about working by the roadside, she refuses to let self-doubt stand in her way.
“My children are the reason I am doing this—nothing more, nothing less,” she said.
“I hope they will be successful and achieve more than I have.”
Before becoming her own boss, Maria worked as a supermarket cashier.
While the job provided a regular income, she says nothing compares to the flexibility of running her own business from home.
“I have access to cash every day, and I can finish work whenever I want. I can be my own boss.”
Maria believes there are many opportunities for stay-at-home mothers to earn an income by making the most of the resources around them.
“Not having an office job should not define you,” she said.
“Use whatever resources you have around you to earn a little extra income.”
Her advice is for anyone who believes their lack of education or employment has closed the door to success.
“Never feel hopeless,” Maria said.
“Always believe you can succeed, even if you left school early or don’t have a job.”
