A mother finds satisfaction helping children read
Let us also spare a thought for the mothers and children in Gaza, West Papua, Sudan and all conflict-ridden countries in the world
NANUKU is an informal settlement in Vatuwaqa, brimming with challenges and obstacles that often leave children vulnerable to negative influences.
It is within this setting that Rokoiga Soweri, a passionate and dedicated teacher, has taken it upon herself to empower children through English literacy.
Despite the countless challenges she encounters, Ms Soweri's unwavering commitment to create a safe space for the children is driven by her own vision as a mother.
She is originally from Nabalo Village in Kadavu and has been residing at Nanuku Settlement since 2018.
Ms Soweri, who is turning 37 today, has worked alongside Vunilagi Book Club founder, Mariana Waqa, helping children in the community in English Literacy.
Ms Soweri who has seven children of her own is a dedicated member of the Vunilagi Book Club, an NGO that promotes literacy in the informal settlement where she lives as well.
Despite having a place for the Vunilagi Book Club, where all the children gather to attend their classes, Ms Soweri also has another home in the settlement where she teaches those who are lagging behind in their reading.
She turned a home given to her by a friend within the community who had migrated with her family overseas into a space where she tutors students on a one-on-one basis.
"I have a house in this community and a separate home as well where I have all my teaching equipment. This is where I normally tutor those who are lagging in most areas of learning," she said.
Education is often perceived as the key to unlocking a brighter future, and Ms Soweri firmly believes in its power to transform lives.
She recognises the unique opportunity that literacy skills, particularly in English, provide for the children of Nanuku Settlement.
"With these skills, they can broaden their horizons, overcome communication barriers, access higher education, and break free from the chains of poverty. By teaching English literacy, my aim is to equip these children with the tools they need to navigate the world confidently," she said.
As a mother herself, Ms Soweri understands the imperative need for a safe space for children.
Ms Soweri's vision is to create this sanctuary for them, where they can feel secure and flourish to be the best versions of themselves.
Through her teaching, she fosters an environment that allows children to express themselves, share their fears and aspirations, and build the trust necessary for personal growth.
"I want children to feel safe in this community and know they are also heard. We never know what one goes through in their respective homes — coming to learn with other children will make them feel safe and confident and that is why I love doing what I do — to help and reach out to these children," she said.
Ms Soweri's impact on the lives of the children is immeasurable.
Not only does she equip them with essential literacy skills, but she also instills in them a sense of self-worth and ambition.
"A few children that were taught here, have gone through primary school with flying colours and that has made us proud."
Over time, she witnesses remarkable transformations in her students as their confidence soars, their communication skills improve, and their aspirations become lofty.
By providing this extra learning environment and a safe haven, Ms Soweri empowers these children to break the cycle of poverty and strife, opening doors for a hopeful and successful future.
"One of the disadvantages of living in these settlements is that, children are exposed to the usage of drugs and crimes.
Being a helping hand to parents in keeping their children safe from these exposures is something that I really love doing - even for free."
In a challenging community like Nanuku Settlement, Ms Soweri's vision for change shines through.
Through her tireless dedication to teaching English literacy and creating a safe space, she ensures these vulnerable children have a chance at a brighter future.
Ms Soweri shared that the role of a mother is an important task in any household.
"Women play an important role in the family and that is why mothers are special. I believe all women must be able to stand on their own two feet before marrying into a family, as this will allow them to be independent."
"Most of the time women face discrimination in society and aren't given much opportunities, but with the power of education - they can be anything in life," she said.
THE Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre would like to wish all females a happy Mother’s Day as they all play a role in mothering everyone and contributing so much to the development of humanity.
Mother's Day has long been exploited for commercial and political gain and given the current political situation in Fiji and the ongoing conflict and violence in other parts of the world, it is time we reclaimed the true meaning of Mother’s Day which was born out of women calling for peace and justice.
Mother’s Day origins lie in feminist campaigns in the late 19th and early 20th century to call for peace, justice, and an end to all wars. Women stood together in solidarity to not allow their children to kill each other on the battlefield.
This Mother’s Day, as families gather around their mother’s and matriarchs in their own homes and celebrate the role of mothers – let us also not forget those women who are not so fortunate to have a loving and caring environment or are suffering from domestic violence, neglect and other deprivations.
Let us also spare a thought for the mother’s and children in Gaza, West Papua, Sudan and all conflict-ridden countries in the world.
We call upon Fijian men to give the women in their lives an unbeatable Mother’s Day.