Impaired couple continue to overcome challenges

A DEAF and mute couple, who have been living in a tent since Tropical Cyclone Ana destroyed their home, are not letting the impact of COVID-19 on their small food business get them down.

Sereima Botei and Sami Veleko are proving to be a source of inspiration to the more than 300 villagers living in tents at the Assemblies

of God church compound in Dreketi, Macuata.

They have plodded on, determined and not allowing their disabilities to hinder their ability to support their two children.

Fellow villager Vasenai Tagi said the couple used to earn about $50 a day selling food parcels to passengers from inter-island vessels.

She said when COVID-19 movement restrictions were enforced and the ships stopped coming, they stopped earning.

“But instead of losing hope, Sereima was quick to turn to fishing and planting vegetables to support her family and is now one of the best fisherwomen in the village,” Ms Tagi said.

Using simple sign language, Sereima gave The Fiji Times team a big thumbs up, indicating all was well with her family.

“Set,” the Sawani, Naitasiri woman said with enthusiasm.

Ms Tagi said Sereima was “different”.

“She does everything on her own and is a strong woman,” she said.

Ms Botei and Mr Veleko are among 300 Nabavatu villagers sheltering in the church compound after fissures appeared in their village after TC Ana, compromising the integrity of infrastructure in the community.