Balancing a career and a passion can be a challenging endeavor. However, it is possible to excel in both with determination and focus. This is the story of 26-year-old Junaid Ali, who works in information and communication technology (ICT) while pursuing his passion for sports.
Ali’s educational journey began in Australia, where he attended kindergarten and Year One before returning to Fiji to complete his schooling and pursue a career in IT. “At the age of nine, I began my sporting journey, representing my school and eventually captaining the under-12 team, leading them to victories in the southern zone competition,” Ali shared.
In addition to his academic achievements, Ali also excelled in athletics. “Alongside my academic pursuits, I developed a strong sporting career,” he said. “I had the privilege of representing Rewa youth and the Rewa district at various competitions.” He also played futsal for Tailevu and Naitasiri before transitioning to Rewa. Recently, Ali represented Fiji at the national level in futsal after being transferred from Rewa futsal.
Balancing his roles as an IT professional and a sportsman has led to substantial personal growth for Ali. “It sharpened my problem-solving abilities in IT and taught me crucial lessons in teamwork, resilience, and ongoing enhancement in sports. These varied experiences have greatly enriched my overall development,” he explained.
A significant challenge for Ali was balancing academic commitments with his passion for sports. “As I progressed through education and pursued a career in IT, I also dedicated considerable time to training and competing in futsal and athletics,” he said. “To manage this dual focus effectively, I learned to prioritize tasks and manage my time efficiently.”
To ensure efficiency, Ali adhered to strict study and training schedules, often sacrificing social activities and leisure time. “Personal growth has been integral in my journey, influencing both my professional and athletic pursuits,” he noted. Ali highlighted that one area where he experienced significant growth was in his multi-tasking ability.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial, according to Ali. It required effective time management to juggle work demands and a rigorous training schedule. He emphasized that maintaining boundaries, being flexible, and seeking support from mentors and loved ones helped him achieve a harmonious balance between his professional and personal goals. “This approach ensures consistent progress and fulfillment in both areas of my life,” he stated.
Ali advises others to establish boundaries to avoid burnout and to seek guidance from mentors and peers to navigate challenges effectively.