A father’s role in shaping character, instilling values, and inspiring aspirations is profound. Raahyl Nair, a 24-year-old civil engineering graduate from the University of the South Pacific, believes his achievements are a reflection of his late father’s influence.
Hailing from Tavua but raised in Suva, Raahyl’s story is one of personal challenges and professional achievements. Growing up in a typical Indian household, he recollects how his strict upbringing contrasted with his father’s more relaxed views. “Indian parents are very strict, and while I had a passion for soccer, my mom emphasized the importance of education,” he said. In contrast, Raahyl’s father encouraged him to enjoy life and pursue his interests, teaching him that life’s primary goal is to have fun.
This balance in parenting gave Raahyl a deep-rooted appreciation for hard work paired with enjoyment. His educational journey began at Nasinu Gospel Primary School, followed by Rishikul Primary School and Rishikul College. Initially interested in aviation and automotive fields, his career path shifted to civil engineering under his father’s influence, as he often visited his father’s workplace at the Ministry of Agriculture. There, he was inspired by his father’s connections in civil engineering, which led him to explore the field further.
Raahyl had aspirations of becoming a pilot; however, his plans changed when he received a National Toppers Scholarship, which did not support studies in aviation. Encouraged by his father and with insight gained from colleagues in civil engineering, he chose to pursue a degree in that discipline. His first year at university, however, brought tragedy when he lost his father, thrusting him into new responsibilities. He had to navigate household affairs, support his mother, and manage the family taxi business, all while continuing his studies.
These experiences accelerated his maturity. “Before all this, I was never involved in these responsibilities, but I learned a great deal about life and time management through these experiences. The biggest lesson I learned is that education never stops,” he reflected.
In today’s competitive civil engineering landscape, Raahyl advises incoming students to pursue their passions wholeheartedly. “Just embrace it, follow your passion, and remember those who supported you,” he advised. He emphasized the necessity of education and keeping abreast of emerging technologies, as his journey has been about more than just gaining knowledge; it is also about adapting to life’s challenges.
Looking ahead, Raahyl remains open to whatever opportunities may present themselves, acknowledging the unpredictability of the future. “We’ll see what tomorrow brings, but until then, I will continue to build the life my parents envisioned for me.”