Women are the lifeline of families

By Vatapuia Maiava 07 October 2016, 12:00AM

“Women are the lifeline of any family.”

That is the message from La’aloi Galumalemana, from the village of Sapapali’i, Savaii.

Aged 42, La’aloi runs a small market stall in Savai’i selling handicrafts and tailored products which she works hard to make.

Being the breadwinner of the family, La’aloi says that women can do anything if they work hard towards it.

“My message to all the women is that we are the life of the family,” she told the Village Voice.

“I see so many women at the markets pushing their goods and working very hard for their families. If we use our talents from the Lord wisely then we can do anything.

“Life is expensive but you will only suffer if you are lazy.”

La’aloi continued to explain how much her family relies on her small business.

“This business I am currently running is what helps look after the family and especially my children’s schooling,” she said.

“It also helps with family activities as well as village things. We may not have much but at least we make enough to cover each day.

“Putting the children through school is what takes most of the money but it’s alright, that’s my duty.”

Another strong message from La’aloi is the importance of budgeting in each family.

“You know we in the villages go through many challenges through obligations but there is a way to ease it for yourself,” she said.

“What’s really important to me is knowing how to manage your money wisely. I don’t do nice shopping every day and sometimes I don’t even do any shopping.

“Everything is measured with the strength you have to put into getting what you need.”

But no matter how much one works, a lot of their money will always go to loved ones.

“Even when you run a big business, the biggest money drain will always be your family,” La’aloi said.

“Priority is always given to those we love. We don’t just stop at the children’s schooling; we also have to take care of everyone in the family.

“Most of the money goes towards food every day.”

Although faced with a few personal struggles, it hasn’t stopped La’aloi from working towards her big goal.

“My dream or goal is to be able to one day buy a piece of land,” she said.

“We are currently living on family land with others but I want my own piece of land away from everything.

“I am trying to save up through the money I make from this business I have. There is no one in the family currently working so this is our only source of money.

“We also have a plantation to help out when we need food.”

By Vatapuia Maiava 07 October 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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