Every morning, Arvin Kumar starts his truck and ventures out onto the bustling roads of Suva, driven by a commitment to deliver goods and transport people throughout the city. Over the years, he has cultivated a strong reputation for his hard work and reliability as a dedicated driver.
Today, Mr. Kumar stands as an accomplished businessman, managing four carriers based in Nabua—a significant achievement that represents years of persistence and dedication. Despite his success, he remains humble and deeply connected to his roots. Born and raised on Valley Rd in Sigatoka, he grew up in a modest household with four brothers, two of whom still live in Sigatoka, while one has settled in New Zealand.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Kumar shares, “Life was not easy growing up, but those struggles taught me the value of hard work and patience.” His early career as a driver was fraught with challenges, ranging from long hours to financial uncertainty. “There were days when I didn’t know how I would move forward, but I never gave up,” he recalls. His unwavering determination ultimately paid off, enabling him to expand his operations and become his own boss.
In 1992, he met a woman from Oloolo, Sigatoka, who would later become his wife. “I knew she was the one I wanted to spend my life with,” he expressed fondly. Together, they have three children—two daughters and a son—who he names as his greatest source of motivation.
Mr. Kumar’s career began as a cashier at a petrol station in Sigatoka while also assisting his father on their family farm. Juggling work and family responsibilities during those early years was no small feat, and after four years of hard work, he sought more fulfilling opportunities. “Life in Sigatoka was laid back and slow. I wanted to make more money,” he admitted.
In 1996, he made the courageous decision to move to Suva with his family in search of better prospects. Once settled, Mr. Kumar found employment as a driver with Courts, where he gained invaluable insights into the city’s transportation dynamics. “That job really helped me understand Suva and how transport works here,” he said.
After a decade of dedicated service, he stepped away in 2006 with the ambition of becoming his own boss. With a clear vision, Mr. Kumar purchased his first truck, marking the inception of his transport business, Na Lequ Ohe Carriers. “Buying that first truck was a big risk, but I believed in myself,” he reflected.
Over the years, his business has steadily grown, and he now owns four carriers operating from Nabua. His son has joined him in managing daily operations, a situation that fills Mr. Kumar with pride. “It makes me proud to work with my son and pass on what I have learned,” he said.
However, the carrier industry is not without its challenges. “This business has its ups and downs. It mostly depends on customer availability. Sometimes there are many jobs, and sometimes it is slack,” he noted. Despite these fluctuations, Mr. Kumar has remained steadfast and resilient. “No matter what job you are doing, you need to learn how to save money. Only then can you grow in life,” he advises, underscoring the importance of discipline and financial management in his journey.
Mr. Kumar’s story is one of perseverance, illustrating how hard work and a commitment to one’s goals can lead to success. His journey inspires hope and demonstrates that with determination and resilience, one can rise and thrive against all odds.
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