The Fiji Times has experienced the loss of a cherished staff member and sports journalist, whose vast network earned him deep respect within the media community. Known affectionately as Zanzeer Singh, or ‘Zan’, he was a key figure in the transformation of Times Sport alongside notable peers such as Manoj Kumar and the late Maciu Malo.
Zan began his career with the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation in 1995 before moving to Fiji Sun. In 2003, he became a part of The Fiji Times, where he dedicated 20 years of service until his recent departure. His early passion for sports was shared with his brother Ranbeer, who is also a respected journalist.
Working out of the newspaper’s West Bureau, Zan became one of the most recognizable contributors to Times Sports. He understood the significance of covering lesser-known sports that often struggled for media attention. His extensive knowledge spanned various sports, including rugby, football, golf, cricket, tennis, and snooker, enabling him to connect with athletes, coaches, managers, and sponsors.
Recognized by editors for his expertise in the Western sports scene, Zan took on the responsibility of overseeing sports content from that division. He worked closely with fellow sports reporter Maciu Malo throughout the 2010s until Maciu’s passing in 2019. Despite his extensive experience, Zan was always approachable, offering guidance and support to journalists of all levels.
Zan’s generosity extended beyond his professional role; he was a beloved member of the West team. His warm personality often shone through as he would bring in food for his colleagues to share, fostering a sense of community. Even during team outings, he was frequently involved, although he shyed away from being in photographs, preferring to remain behind the scenes.
As his peers grieve the loss of Zan, they fondly remember the significant impact he had on their lives and the journalism community as a whole.