Young Michael’s sacrifice for family

By Talimalie Uta 12 August 2017, 12:00AM

At 18-years-old, Michael Lauli’i is already feeling the pressure.

From a family of 20 people, he has to provide money for food, electricity and everything else they need.

The man from Faleasiu is a street vendor and sells ie lavalava. 

Michael lost interest in school when he was in Year 12 and that’s when he started as a street vendor.

His quota of 50 ie lavalava a week is huge. 

He makes a tala from every ie sold.

The money is not great but he has no other option. However, he is actively looking for another job.

“I’ve been selling ie lavalava for more than six months now and the least money I get from it in one day is $10 or $30 maximum.

“I love my job but the problem is I’m not the only one selling ie lavalava, there are other competitors.

 “If I don’t push forward and convince people to buy my ie, I’ll never be able to get money. This job depends on how strong the seller is in convincing and promoting his or her ie lavalava.”

Michael covers a lot of distance.

Yesterday, he was selling in front of the ANZ Bank at Vaitele.

According to the young man, life is all about working hard and sacrificing everything for the people you love. 

“I’ve been planning my future for a very long time and I had so many dreams I wanted to achieve 

“However, I have set it all aside because my family needs me and it’s a must to put family first.”

Asked what kind of work he would be interested in, he said “anything.”

“I am an honest and a very reliable person. I will accept any work offered and I promise to do my best.”

Michael can be contacted on 7238192.

By Talimalie Uta 12 August 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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