Three years ago, the life of a family in Tamavua village changed forever when 15-year-old, Selina Boila’s mother left her and the family.
Her 51-year-old father has been unemployed due to a leg injury that occurred over 15 years ago.
Since then it has been difficult for him to find work.
They are facing tough times but Selina Boila who is a form four student now at LDS College did not lose hope and started to work after school to provide for her family.
We spoke to Selina at her home and she said that instead of going home after a long day of school, she goes home and then goes to sell flowers for her family.
She said this has to be done to ensure they have money to buy food and pay for other basic necessities.
Selina said she finds difficulties in balancing school work and selling flowers for her family but she has no choice due to their current situation.
But as people say that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Selina is hoping for the best in the future.
The family is waiting for the day that their father will find a job and Selina would not have to go out and sell flowers anymore.
Selina has big dreams for the future.
Selina is one of the recipients of the 2012 the Fiji Children’s Awards last week.
She is currently on school holiday and is still selling flowers for her family.
Story by: Hannah Naiyaga