Zen Waqavonovono has proudly made history as the first Fijian to graduate with a Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy from the renowned Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA. This achievement came during the college’s 2024 commencement ceremony held on May 10, where he was among students representing 75 countries. Notably, he was the sole graduate from Fiji and only one of two individuals from the Pacific region, the other being from the Federated States of Micronesia.
Zen’s journey to this milestone began in 2018 when he applied to Berklee and was accepted to start his studies in January 2020. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to return to Fiji just two months later. He adapted by completing his coursework online while navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic.
His mother, Sharyne Fong, expressed immense pride in his dedication, noting that Zen took 2021 off to manage hybrid classes, which required travel back and forth between Fiji and Boston—a logistical challenge complicated by COVID protocols and quarantine measures. Zen resumed his studies in 2022, culminating in his graduation, which his mother describes as a testament to his hard work and dedication to using music as a therapeutic tool.
In addition to his academic achievements, Zen secured an internship with the Community Music Centre of Boston, where he will complete six months of practical training before receiving his license to practice as a music therapist. Throughout his studies, he gained valuable experience by working in clinical settings with both children and adults, utilizing music to address challenges like autism, trauma, and speech difficulties.
The Berklee College of Music is esteemed within the global music education landscape, celebrating notable alumni that include legendary figures such as Roberta Flack, Celine Dion, and Quincy Jones. Zen’s accomplishment not only positions him as a trailblazer for future Fijians in music but also speaks to the growing recognition of music therapy as an essential field in mental health and well-being.
This graduation serves to inspire many, highlighting how perseverance in pursuing one’s passion can lead to groundbreaking achievements. As more individuals like Zen step into the music therapy space, there is hope for enhanced mental health support and cultural expressions rooted in the therapeutic power of music.
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