Ame Nasukurewa’s entrepreneurial journey exemplifies the power of sacrifice and determination, showcasing a commitment to family that has spanned two decades. At the age of 72, Mr. Nasukurewa, originally from Nakorotubu Village in Ra, made a pivotal decision in 2005 to relocate to Vakabalea in Navua in search of better opportunities. This move was driven by his desire for a brighter future for his family.
With a piece of land purchased in Navua, Mr. Nasukurewa dedicated himself to traditional farming, planting a variety of vegetables and root crops. He relied on knowledge passed down through generations as he cultivated the land, which has since become his primary source of income. “At that time, I wanted something better for my family, so I took the risk and came to Navua,” he shared, recalling his initial struggles.
Starting from scratch, Mr. Nasukurewa faced significant challenges as he worked hard to rehabilitate the land. He describes his daily routine as focused on farming, stating, “Today, farming remains at the centre of my daily routine.” Despite aging, he continues to rise early each day to tend to his crops, demonstrating his enduring work ethic.
His wife plays a vital role in their business by selling produce along the Vakabalea roadside, working alongside other mini-market vendors who cater to local customers and passing motorists. “My wife helps a lot. While I work on the farm, she sells our vegetables. We work as a team,” he noted, highlighting the importance of collaboration in their success.
Throughout his journey, Mr. Nasukurewa has encountered physical exhaustion, financial difficulties, and the challenges posed by unpredictable weather. Yet, his perseverance has been a guiding force, enabling him to navigate these obstacles. “There were many hard days. Sometimes crops failed, sometimes money was short, but I endured everything that came my way,” he reflected.
Despite the challenges, he finds joy in maintaining an active and self-sufficient lifestyle. With his children now grown and pursuing their own careers, he remains motivated to provide for his family. “I can still work on my farm, and I am thankful for my health. Even though my children have their own jobs now, I still want to provide and support my family in any way I can,” he expressed.
Mr. Nasukurewa hopes that his story will inspire the younger generation to appreciate hard work and the value of farming, emphasizing that agriculture can indeed be a stable livelihood when approached with dedication. He believes, “Farming is not easy, but it teaches patience and discipline. If you respect the land, it will take care of you.”
His roadside market has gained popularity, particularly on weekends when customer traffic peaks. This consistent flow of patrons has been crucial in supporting the livelihoods of both Mr. Nasukurewa and his wife through the sale of fresh produce. He is immensely grateful for the community’s support, noting the reliability of returning customers: “I am very thankful to everyone who supports our small market business. Their support helps us continue our work and provide for our family.”
In sharing his journey, Mr. Nasukurewa not only highlights the realities of farming but also promotes a hopeful message that hard work and community support can lead to success and fulfillment in life.