Rian Kaniabota is a dedicated mother managing her household in Fiji while her husband works overseas. Residing on Kinoya Road with their five children, Rian takes on the responsibility of overseeing family finances, household chores, and the wellbeing of her children.
Every two weeks, her husband contributes $1,000 for household expenses, which Rian budgets meticulously. She allocates this sum to cover essential bills—utilities, food, and other daily necessities—dividing it into a manageable weekly budget of $500. Rian emphasizes the importance of healthy eating, dedicating $200 to $250 for organic produce sourced from local markets, as she believes that organic food is not only healthier but also more affordable than many store-bought items.
In her culinary approach, Rian focuses on fresh, organic ingredients and traditional local foods. The family diet includes root vegetables like tavioka and sweet potatoes, ensuring that meals are nutritious and contribute to the children’s immune health, particularly in Suva’s humid environment where illnesses can easily spread. Rian maintains a balanced meal plan by serving organic options three to four times a week and minimizing processed food, restricting rice to just two days a week.
Despite being a qualified primary school teacher, Rian is currently unable to work due to her visa exemption status. Her children attend CMF College and nearby primary schools, with two of them having already acquired Fijian citizenship while the others navigate immigration processes.
Rian applies strict financial discipline when shopping, always coming prepared with a list and prioritizing essential items such as rice, eggs, and other affordable proteins. She instills these values in her children, teaching them the importance of resisting impulse buys driven by flashy packaging. Understanding the unpredictability of expenses, Rian also sets aside a portion of their budget for savings and emergencies, which she refers to as “rainy day” funds.
Frequenting supermarkets like Shop N Save, Extra Supermarket, and Max-Val-U, Rian is adept at finding the best deals by comparing prices. She advocates for mindfulness while shopping, emphasizing the need to read labels and nutrition facts diligently. For Rian, taking a few extra moments to assess what goes into their shopping cart is essential for ensuring the family’s health and wellbeing.
Through her resourcefulness and commitment to healthy living, Rian exemplifies resilience and effective family management, providing for her children in her husband’s absence while promoting financial literacy and healthy eating habits.