For 21-year-old Tavite Baleinagasau Bevu, fondly known as Kaji (small boy) carpentry wasn’t something that initially sparked his interest. Growing up, he never imagined that one day he would be building homes, let alone dreaming of constructing his own. But the consistent advice from his parents and elders always lingered in the back of his mind:
“Whatever you become in the future, you will always start from a home.”
Those words stayed with Tavite. At 18, he realized that if he wanted to build a home of his own, he needed to learn how. He began working with his grandfather, a respected village carpenter, continuing a family tradition passed down from his great-grandfather who was also a carpenter.
While working on small projects with his grandfather, Tavite heard about Habitat for Humanity Fiji through a distant relative. He learned about an opportunity for formal carpentry training in partnership with Habitat Fiji and the Fiji National University (FNU) in 2021. Without hesitation, he signed up and complete the course with a Certificate Level II in basic carpentry. He later joined Habitat Fiji as a volunteer carpenter alongside four others.
The journey wasn’t always easy. As a group of young volunteers with different ideas about what volunteering meant, they faced challenges. But Tavite stayed committed. He reminded himself of why he started—his dream of building his own home one day and becoming the best version of himself through the skills he could learn.
Over the past three years, Tavite’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. He has helped build over 30 homes, working tirelessly to perfect his craft. Every nail hammered, every wall raised bringing him closer to his goal.
“I’ve learned so much in these past five years,” Tavite reflects. “There’s so much value in this organization. Working alongside Habitat Fiji has been a gift, and through these experiences, I know I will be able to fulfill my dream of building my own home one day.”
Today, Tavite is not just building homes—he’s building dreams, resilience, and a future shaped by the lessons and skills passed down through generations. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the belief that everything begins at home.
Habitat for Humanity Fiji is grateful to have the opportunity to support these dreams of the youth. By empowering individuals like Tavite with training, experience, and a sense of purpose, Habitat Fiji helps lay the foundation not just for homes, but for brighter futures—for individuals, families, communities, and the country as a whole.
