05 Aug 2025

Strength in Steps: The Youth of Nasaisaivua and Their Walk Toward a Better Tomorrow

In the coastal village of Nasaisaivua, in the Kubulau district of Bua, a quiet transformation is unfolding—not through grand speeches or expensive blueprints, but through the determined hands and feet of its youth.

Led by Youth President Isoa Rabuli and supported by his deputy Osea Savu, the youth of Nasaisaivua have taken up the call to serve their vanua through action, sweat, and a deep commitment to community-driven development.

Building a Future One Footpath at a Time

One of their most visible and ongoing projects is the construction of a concrete footpath through the village. It’s not just cement and gravel—it’s a collective effort to improve access for elders, children, and families, especially during heavy rains when the ground becomes muddy and unsafe. The project is entirely youth-led, powered by volunteered labour, donated materials, and sheer willpower.

“We know we don’t have much, but what we have is each other,” shared Isoa. “And we’ll continue building with our hands until this footpath is finished.”

However, the youth are now hoping for funding support—to help them buy more cement, gravel, and tools to finish what they’ve started. It’s more than a path—it’s a statement of responsibility and resilience.

Fishing for the Future

Many of the young men in Nasaisaivua are also fishermen, heading out to sea twice a week. Their catch—sold at the SSV market—earns around $10 per kilo (grade A) and $8 (grade B). This income supports their families and the youth group’s activities. There are hopes of acquiring a fiber boat dedicated for the youth to ease fishing trips and improve livelihoods.

Addressing Water Challenges

Another pressing concern is the village bathing area. The current setup, linked to an old water tank, now overflows frequently—causing waste and inconvenience. Renovating this communal space is next on their list, but again, funding is needed. The goal is to restore dignity and hygiene to the everyday routines of the villagers.

Lessons from the Past, Eyes on the Future

In conversation with the Mata-ni-Vanua of Nasaisaivua, and Isoa Rabuli, deep insights emerged about how the landscape and village life have shifted over time. Due to climate change, the once-consistent weather cycles have changed drastically—impacting farming, fishing, and even the layout of the land. The stories of how the village once was—more predictable rains, more fertile land, more unity among young people—draw a stark contrast to the challenges youth face today.

Technology, modern mindsets, and shifting cultural norms have also created a generational gap. But instead of letting that gap divide them, the youth are finding ways to merge the wisdom of the past with the tools of today.

"Our youth today may be different,” shared the elder, “but they are still our strength. What matters is how they use their energy for the good of the vanua.

A Call for Support

The youth of Nasaisaivua are doing what many only talk about—taking real steps toward improving their village, even with limited resources. But to go further, they need partners—donors, NGOs, government bodies, and individuals—who believe in the power of grassroots leadership.

If you or your organization would like to assist with:

In Nasaisaivua, change isn’t coming from outside. It’s already here—in the hands of its youth, in the rhythm of their footsteps, and in the vision they’re paving for the next generation.