At 59, Lite Tuikaba from Kaba Village in Tailevu has faced a multitude of life’s challenges, yet her resilience remains unwavering. After marrying into Yalobi Village in Yasawa, she became a mother to four children—three daughters and one son. Following the passing of her husband in 2017, Lite took on the sole responsibility of providing for her family.
While her daughters have ventured into their own lives, her son continues to support her. Daily life is a struggle, as Lite often rises at dawn to fish or tend to her farm to secure food and a modest income. Nevertheless, she recently experienced a transformative event—the Confident Woman Community Essentials Training facilitated by LifeBread Stay Connected—that has altered her perspective on life.
Mrs. Tuikaba found the workshop enlightening, as it allowed her to reflect on her past and rediscover her sense of purpose. A particularly impactful exercise was the “Tree of Life,” which encouraged participants to examine their backgrounds, personal journeys, achievements, and future goals. For Lite, this exercise became a moment of profound self-realization. “It made me see where I started, where I am now, and where I can still go,” she shared.
The training emphasized the importance of leadership, which Lite learned is not confined to titles or positions. It lies instead in personal responsibility and everyday decisions. She now understands that prioritizing her health, setting boundaries, and making informed choices are forms of leadership in their own right. “We have to know ourselves and our limits. We must have discipline to protect what’s important; our health, our time, and our goals,” she remarked.
Budgeting also emerged as a crucial lesson for Lite. After managing her household alone for several years, she recognizes that financial discipline is essential for stability. She is eager to share her newfound knowledge with other women in her village to help them make informed financial decisions and avoid unnecessary struggles.
Lite is hopeful that this training will return to her district of Waya, allowing more women to benefit from it. “This kind of training will benefit many women. I want to see it come back again,” she expressed.
Her story showcases the quiet fortitude of many women throughout Fiji, who continue to support, endure, and lead within their families and communities. Lite Tuikaba’s experience serves as a reminder that growth, hope, and empowerment are attainable at any stage of life.