Adran Kumar is thankful he heeded his mother’s advice to participate in the New Zealand-Fiji Secondary School Essay Competition 2024. The Year 12 student from Sabeto College in Nadi emerged as the overall winner of the 16th edition of the contest.
At just 17 years old, he was one of two representatives from the Western Division acknowledged for submitting the best essay. Adran shared that he initially struggled with his writing, stating, “Halfway through writing my essay, I gave up and told my parents that I couldn’t do it. I thought about the many other students across the country who write better than I do, and I felt it would be futile to give my best if it wasn’t going to succeed.”
Fortunately, his mother urged him to persist, continuously motivating him to finish the essay. Reflecting on her support, Adran remarked, “I am grateful I listened to my mother.”
The competition saw participation from over 100 secondary schools, with around 600 essays submitted on the topic of the Pacific Way, focusing on the unique approach of the Pacific region. Adran expressed appreciation for the support from his teachers that contributed to his achievement.
His essay focused on eco-tourism and the importance of preserving cultural identity. “I believe eco-tourism highlights the Pacific and the world who we are. It aids in preserving Fijian culture, traditions, and the land,” he explained.
Adran plans to study medicine and received $500 in cash, a laptop, and a certificate of recognition as rewards. One of the judges, Dr. Satendra Singh, praised the high caliber of writing present in the competition, stating, “A good essay or article not only attracts but touches the hearts of the readers.”
Alex Shahryar-Davies, Deputy High Commissioner of the New Zealand High Commission, expressed pride in supporting the essay competition for 16 years. He stated, “This initiative provides a valuable platform for students across Fiji to express themselves creatively and constructively through essays, fostering sharing of ideas beneficial to our communities.”
Certificates of recognition were also awarded to Shresti Devi from Year 11, Kristina Kavita from Year 13, Shakshi Chand from Year 13, and Nitish Chand from Year 13.
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