Revoni Nasila for two decades, the chalkboard and classroom were his second home.
As a dedicated school teacher from Lutu, Wainimala, he spent more than 20 years educating children, guiding them through lessons not only in books, but in life.
Today, his classroom has changed — replaced by winding roads, early mornings, and the steady hum of a transport truck as he builds his own transportation business to support his family and community.
His day starts while most are still asleep at exactly 3am, he leaves his home in the cool interior darkness, preparing for the long drive ahead. The journey from Wainimala to Suva is not easy, especially with the condition of the road,
“It is struggle for us drivers as the road from Serea to Wainimala is really bad at the moment,” he said.
“I usually pick up passengers from Lutu, Nadovu and along the way”
“Passengers pay $20 per head and if they are carrying goods such as cassava, one bag is $5 and dalo is a dollar per bundle.”
But for Mr Nasila determination keeps him moving, by 6 to 7am, he arrives in the capital allowing his passengers to sell their produce and embarks on his way back at midday.
This routine continues Monday to Saturday, demanding both physical and mental endurance.
Despite the long hours on the road, he also manages a small shop back in his village, ensuring that families in Lutu have easier access to basic goods without travelling far.
For Mr Nasila, business is not only about income but about serving the people who raised him.
Family remains at the heart of his journey as are father of four children, he speaks proudly of their achievements.
“I have four children one is currently serving as a British Army in England and another is currently pursuing his studies as a teacher and the other two are currently working and living at home with him.”
Transitioning from teaching to transport was not an easy decision for Mr Nasila.
After years of service in education, he saw the need for better logistics and access for interior communities.
Farmers, students and small business owners depend heavily on transport to reach markets, schools and services in Suva.
His business now helps bridge that gap, carrying produce and people between Wainimala and the city.
However, challenges remain, particularly the state of the underdeveloped roads in the Naitasiri corridor.
He is urging the Government to repair and upgrade the road from Serea through to Wainimala, saying it is vital for safety and economic growth.
He shared, “there was incident that involved a pregnant lady where she was on the verge of giving birth, but due to the poor the road condition she gave birth in the vehicle and was rushed to the hospital after.”
He recalls that the improvement of the road was promised by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during his campaign while contesting for Parliament, and he hopes that commitment will be honoured.
“Good roads are not a luxury for us in the interior — they are a necessity,” he said.
“When the road is bad, it affects transport costs, school attendance, medical access and business opportunities”
“Fixing it will change lives.”
He believes better roads will encourage more investment in the highlands, allowing villagers to sell produce faster, reduce vehicle damage, and make travel safer, especially during the wet season when conditions worsen.
Mr Nasila advises the public, “to invest in our future generation no matter if you are farmer, business owner or are government worker. Stop pouring your money on meaningless functions and invest in your children”.
Even after spending more than 20 years in education, he continues to contribute to society in a new way, not in front of a class, but behind the wheel, ensuring his community stays connected to the rest of Fiji.
His journey proves that no matter where life takes you, commitment to family and village remains the true driving force.
After two decades of teaching Mr. Nasila now embarks on the transportation business, connecting the gap from the interior of Wainimala to the Capital of Fiji. Picture: MELI NAGUSUDRAU
