FOR 46-year-old Poasa Vaileba, life is all about balance, hard work, and making smart choices for his family.
Working as an IT technician while also managing a 16-acre farm in Nadroga, Vaileba proudly describes himself as a “double hustler” who believes that discipline and budgeting are the keys to surviving in today’s economy.
Originally from Kadavu with maternal links to Navosa, Vaileba has spent more than 10-years shopping at RB Patel Supermarket in Sigatoka, a place he says continues to provide everything his family needs at affordable prices.
Speaking during an interview at the supermarket, Vaileba shared how important it is for families to shop wisely and live within their means.
“Shopping with a budget is always a good way to survive,” he said.
“Every week I usually spend around $100 or more on groceries and market shopping for my family. If you know how to plan properly, you can still manage your family well.”
For Vaileba, RB Patel has become more than just a supermarket.
It is a trusted place where he knows he can find quality products, good prices, and reliable customer service.
“For all the supermarkets here in Sigatoka, I always choose RB Patel because the prices are cheap and the customer service is great.
“It’s not a very big shop, but we can find all the things we need here, and that’s why I’m happy to shop here.”
Family remains the centre of Vaileba’s world.
Married to a woman from Navuso, he and his wife are raising two daughters while teaching them the value of healthy living and responsible spending.
“For my family, the main food I choose is always from the market.
“We buy vegetables, tavioka, dalo, and other fresh produce because fresh food helps keep us healthy.”
He added that meat is usually reserved for weekends, especially Saturdays and Sundays, while weekdays they focus more on vegetables and root crops.
According to Vaileba, keeping meals simple and healthy has helped his family save money while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
“When I’m busy at work, my wife usually helps with the shopping,” he shared.
“We work together because family responsibilities should always be shared.”
Outside of his IT work, farming plays a major role in supporting the household. Vaileba grows dalo, tavioka, uvi and vegetables on his farmland in Nadroga and regularly sells his produce at the Sigatoka Market to earn additional income.
“I’m an IT technician on contract basis depending on job availability, but farming is my second income.
“The crops I plant help add extra cash flow for my family. Farming really helps people during difficult times.”
Vaileba believes many families can benefit from farming, especially as the cost of living continues to rise.
“We need to focus on things that can help our families survive,” he said. “Farming is hard work, but it can really help people if they stay committed.”
As someone who has spent years balancing two jobs while caring for his family, Vaileba also had a message for young people across Fiji.
“Go for your goals because there are many opportunities in life,” he encouraged.
“If you don’t put in the work, nothing will happen.
“Success only comes through hard work and determination.”
