Turning to farming after losing his job as a chef during the COVID-19 pandemic period, 36-year-old Asaeli Uluimoala did not regret his decision as he embraced farming as a means to support his family.
The man from Naroi Village in Moala, Lau, told fijivillage News that despite having limited knowledge of agriculture, he began his farming journey with determination where his efforts were later bolstered by a $3,000 grant from the Ministry of Agriculture and connected his business to a few hotels in Pacific Harbour to earn a living.
This support enabled Uluimoala to establish the Solo Cooperative, a thriving dalo farming business that now earns between $40,000 and $50,000 in 8 months, far more than he ever earned as a chef.
He says farming has taught him patience and resilience, and though it requires hard work, the rewards are fulfilling.
Today, Uluimoala not only supports his family but also uplifts his community through the cooperative.
He says for him, the pandemic wasn’t the end, it was the beginning of a better life.
