18-year-old Lina Katalaini Talei of Natokalau Village in Cicia, Lau, is proving that hard work and discipline can create positive change, even at a young age.
Talei is spending her school holidays assisting her family at the Suva Market.
The 18-year-old says working at the Suva Market has taught her responsibility, discipline, and the value of money.
She is encouraging young people to use their time wisely and avoid distractions that can harm their future.
Talei strongly advises youths to stay away from drugs and alcohol, saying these can destroy both their health and mindset.
She also encourages students to help their families at the market during weekends and school holidays, as this can help put food on the table and support younger siblings.
Looking ahead, Talei says she is saving money with hopes of taking her parents on a holiday next year as a way of giving back for their support and sacrifices.
Insert: Talei trip 30th Dec
She hopes her journey will inspire other young people to make positive choices and invest their time in activities that help build a better future.
Talei says she has been involved in her family’s small business since her primary school days.
She adds that the family initially sold food items such as cassava and coconuts before expanding into producing scented oils made from virgin coconut oil.
Talei says today the family business sells a range of products, including scented oils, virgin coconut oil, soap, honey wax, and honey at the market.
@fijivillage.com 18-year-old Talei spends school holidays assisting family business at the Suva Market #FijiNews ♬ original sound - fijivillage
