The Fiji Times is mourning the loss of Zanzeer Singh, a respected sports journalist whose extensive connections in the media industry earned him admiration from his colleagues. Known affectionately as ‘Zan,’ he was an integral part of the Times Sport team, contributing alongside notable figures like Manoj Kumar and the late Maciu Malo, who also shaped the sports section.
Zan’s career began with the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation in 1995, after which he moved on to the Fiji Sun. He joined The Fiji Times in 2003 and dedicated 20 years to the publication until his recent departure. His passion for sports was evident from the beginning, and he shared this enthusiasm with his brother Ranbeer, who is also a distinguished journalist.
Based in the newspaper’s West Bureau, Zan became a prominent figure in Times Sports. He was committed to covering lesser-known sports, ensuring they received the attention they deserved. His knowledge spanned a wide array of sports, including rugby, football, golf, cricket, tennis, and snooker. Zan was well-acquainted with athletes, coaches, managers, and sponsors, and his expertise in the sporting scene was recognized by his editors, leading him to oversee sports content in the division.
Zan collaborated closely with fellow reporter Maciu Malo until Malo’s passing in 2019. Despite his extensive experience, he welcomed reporters of all skill levels, offering guidance and sharing his wealth of contacts. His supportive nature extended beyond the newsroom, making him a cherished team member in the West office. Zan was known for his generosity, often bringing in food to share with his colleagues and participating in team outings, where he frequently took on the role of organizer.
Though he preferred to stay in the background and shunned publicity, Zan’s kindness and camaraderie left a lasting impact on everyone around him. As his colleagues reflect on their memories of him, they honor the significant influence he had on their lives and the journalism community.