Originally from Natauloa Village in Nairai, Sera Kula is married to Waitolu Village in Naitasiri where she lives with her husband and their grandchildren.
She has been selling kumala (sweet potatoes) and other crops that are in season at the Nausori market every Fridays and Saturdays for several years now.
Despite facing numerous challenges, she remains determined as this is her family’s main source of income.
“To make sure I can time the suppliers, myself and other vendors from the village travel to Nausori on Thursdays to sleep over at an allocated space provided by the Nausori Town Council – ready for the market day on Friday mornings,” she said.
Sera’s journey from Waitolu Village to Nausori is not an easy one.
It requires her to take various modes of transportation, and sh endures long hours of travel.
However, she never complains and believes that hard work and dedication are essential to support her family.
Every week, she buys around 10 bags of kumala, along with other crops, to sell at the market.
Despite the increasing prices of crops, she remains undeterred, understanding that she must adapt and find ways to sustain her livelihood.
One of the challenges Sera faces is the unpredictable prices of produce from farmers.
“Often, the prices of crops are higher than expected, making it difficult for me to make a substantial profit,” she said. Sera carefully calculates her expenses and ensures she sells the crops at a reasonable yet profitable price.
She knows her efforts are nt in vain as she not only provides for her own family but also contributes to our local economy.
She said, by selling kumala and other crops, she helps meet the nutritional needs of the community, especially those who might not have access to a farm or fresh produce supplies.
Sera takes immense pride in her role as a market vendor and knows her efforts are making a positive impact on people’s lives.
In addition to her market endeavours, Sera’s family plays a significant role in helping with maintaining their plantation from time to time.
With six family members living together, she said they understood the importance of collective effort and support (solesolevaki).
“My family works together to maintain and cultivate our crops, ensuring a steady supply for my market business.
“This interdependence within the family not only strengthens our bond but also allows us to overcome any hurdles that come our way.”
