A father’s impact plays a crucial role in shaping character, instilling values, and inspiring aspirations. Raahyl Nair, a 24-year-old civil engineering graduate from the University of the South Pacific, credits his success to his late father.
Raahyl grew up in Tavua but was raised in Suva, and his journey is a mix of personal challenges and professional achievements. “I grew up in a typical Indian household,” he noted, mentioning the strict approach of Indian parenting. He had a passion for soccer, but it was his mother who urged him to prioritize his education.
In contrast, Raahyl’s father had a more lenient attitude, encouraging him to enjoy life’s experiences. “He encouraged me to go out and play and pursue my passion. He taught me that the main thing about life is to enjoy it.” This blend of parenting styles instilled in Raahyl an appreciation for both hard work and 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, Raahyl’s career path shifted towards civil engineering, inspired by his father’s profession at the Ministry of Agriculture. His father’s connections in civil engineering sparked Raahyl’s interest, and he was encouraged by his father’s colleagues in the field.
Although he aspired to become a pilot, Raahyl’s plans changed when he received a National Toppers Scholarship, which did not support aviation studies. With his father’s encouragement and exposure to civil engineering, he chose to pursue a degree in that discipline. However, tragedy struck during his first year at university when he lost his father.
This devastating loss brought new responsibilities, requiring him to manage household affairs, support his mother, and oversee the family’s taxi business while continuing his studies. These challenges forced Raahyl to mature rapidly, leading him to learn valuable life lessons about time management and the importance of continuous education.
Today, the field of civil engineering, once less competitive, has become quite crowded. Still, Raahyl advises future students to passionately embrace the profession. “My advice is to just pursue your passion and always remember the people who raised you.” He highlights the significance of education and staying updated on new technologies as essential components of his journey, which has been about adapting and growing through life’s challenges.
Looking ahead, Raahyl remains open to future possibilities, aware of the uncertainties that come with it. “We’ll just see what tomorrow brings, but until then, I’ll keep building the life my parents hoped I would have.”