TIMES SHOPPER | Balancing home with working life

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Seruwaia says it is important to be wise about how you plan your grocery budgets. Picture: ANASEINI DIMATE

Seruwaia Nayagodamu has dedicated six years of her life to working at Hot Bread Kitchen.

She said the most rewarding aspect of her job was the opportunity to meet new people every day.

She finds energy and excitement in these daily interactions, which help her start her long workdays with enthusiasm, even when shifts begin as early as 5am.

Seruwaia thrives in the dynamic environment of the kitchen, where the routine of preparing food is balanced by the pleasure of engaging with a wide variety of customers without any normal routine.

“The personal connections we make throughout our day provides us with motivation, reminding us why we have remained in the role for so many years,” she said.

Despite the demands of her work, Seruwaia places great emphasis on maintaining a harmonious and well-organised home life.

She ensures her family’s nutritional needs are consistently met, demonstrating a strong commitment to their health and well-being.

“Even though I am at work here as early as 5am, I also prioritise my household needs and ensure they are met – especially meals,” she said.

Seruwaia said one of her daily priorities is to keep the kitchen stocked with fresh produce and wholesome ingredients.

She meticulously plans meals, making sure that the family always has access to healthy food options. She said this attention to detail reflects not only her dedication but also her understanding of the importance of balanced nutrition in fostering a healthy lifestyle for her loved ones.

To manage both quality and affordability, Seruwaia carefully selects where she shops for groceries.

She often visits supermarkets that offer specials, maximising value while maintaining high standards for the food she provides. Among her preferred shopping destinations are Shop N Save Supermarket in Valelevu, which she favours due to its consistently reasonable prices and variety of products.

By making thoughtful choices and strategically planning her purchases, Seruwaia is able to provide her family with nutritious meals without overspending, demonstrating both financial savvy and practical resourcefulness.

Seruwaia’s life reflects a delicate balance between professional dedication and personal responsibility.

Her ability to navigate early, demanding workdays while simultaneously managing the needs of her household speaks to her remarkable organisational skills and work ethic.

She finds joy in the interactions her job offers, yet she never allows her responsibilities at home to be overshadowed.

This dual commitment highlights her resilience and determination, showing how she successfully integrates her professional and personal spheres in a way that benefits both her career and her family.

In essence, Seruwaia embodies a harmonious blend of energy, commitment, and care.

Her story illustrates the fulfillment that can be found in everyday routines, from the bustling environment of Hot Bread Kitchen to the quiet, purposeful tasks of home management.

Through her dedication to meeting people at work and nourishing her family at home, she demonstrates the profound impact of balancing professional passion with personal responsibility.

Seruwaia’s example serves as a reminder of how hard work, thoughtful planning, and a focus on relationships can create a life rich in both achievement and meaningful connection.