In the serene village of Velovelo, Lautoka, Avish Kumar, a young educator, has embarked on a transformative journey that has reshaped his life and career. At just 24 years old, Kumar represents a new wave of Fijian teachers, though his entry into education was far from conventional.
Initially pursuing a degree in civil engineering, Kumar’s aspirations were abruptly altered by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which created financial barriers that made continuing his studies untenable. Faced with the daunting prospect of abandoning his dreams entirely, he turned to a passion that had quietly accompanied him throughout his life—music.
Coming from a family without any musical background or formal training, Kumar developed a love for music informally. His fascination was sparked by the vibrant kirtan singers at local gatherings and the diverse soundtracks of Bollywood and Hollywood films. One of his favorite Bollywood pieces is “Laboon Ko,” and he frequently enjoys singing the kirtan “Sawali Surat.” Through observation and self-practice, he honed his musical ear and voice, laying the groundwork before he ever set foot in a classroom.
This self-guided journey led him to pursue a degree in Music and Physical Education (PEMAC), marking a pivotal moment that turned his passion into a career. Kumar’s youthful energy and modern approach to teaching resonated well with his students, many of whom are just a few years younger than him. He adeptly integrated technology and relatable methods into his lessons, utilizing PowerPoint presentations, online videos, and engaging demonstrations to clarify complex musical concepts.
A standout moment in his teaching career was helping a Fijian student master the harmonium, a traditional Indian instrument. Initially struggling, the student learned to focus on the chords, gradually improving under Kumar’s encouraging guidance.
Beyond the classroom, Kumar remains committed to his musical pursuits. As a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist specializing in both guitar and harmonium, he draws inspiration from the classical Bollywood music that influenced him growing up. Music serves as both a creative outlet and a source of relief after a long day of teaching.
With his postgraduate studies in education now complete, Kumar is looking confidently to the future. He is initiating plans for a school choir and music club that will provide students with opportunities to express themselves, gain discipline, and find their voices through music. Additionally, he tutors young children eager to explore the world of music.
Kumar’s journey illustrates that even when original goals become obstructed, new and rewarding paths can unfold. His story is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and the belief in oneself, exemplifying that sometimes life’s detours lead to beautiful destinations.
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