A father’s influence molds character, instills values and inspires dreams.
Raahyl Nair, a 24-year-old civil engineering graduate from the University of the South Pacific, experiences this first hand and attributes his successes to his late dad.
Originally from Tavua but raised in Suva, Raahyl’s journey reflects a unique blend of personal struggle and professional triumph.
“I grew up in like a typical Indian household,” Raahyl said.
“So Indian parents, you know, are very strict and I actually had a passion for playing soccer, but my mum was the one who really pushed me to pursue my education.”
In contrast, Raahyl’s father had a more relaxed approach, encouraging Raahyl to embrace life’s joys and opportunities.
“He encouraged me to go out and play, and pursue my passion.
“He taught me that the main thing about life is you have to enjoy it.”
This balanced parenting instilled in Raahyl a lifelong appreciation of both hard work and enjoyment.
His educational path began at Nasinu Gospel Primary School, followed by Rishikul Primary School and Rishikul College.
He was initially drawn to the aviation and automotive fields. But later, his career trajectory shifted toward civil engineering, largely influenced by his father’s profession.
His father worked at the Ministry of Agriculture, where his connections in civil engineering piqued Raahyl’s interest.
“So during my early days, I used to visit his work place and all.
“So all those people over there, they encouraged me to do this field, because at the time there were very few people doing it.
“I said okay. I started learning a few software and stuff with them and this grew my knowledge.”
Despite harbouring dreams of becoming a pilot one day, Nair’s plans changed when he received a National Toppers Scholarship, which did not cover aviation studies.
Encouraged by his father and exposed to civil engineering through his father’s colleagues, Nair decided to pursue a degree in this discipline.
However, during his first year at university, Raahyl lost his father.
The tragic loss brought him added responsibilities. He had to manage household affairs, support his mother, and oversee thefamily’s taxi business while continuing his studies.
These challenges forced him to mature quickly.
“I was never involved in all these stuff before. But…going through the journey, I learned a lot of things, honestly, about life, about how to manage time and everything.
“I would say I grew significantly. The greatest lesson I’ve learned is the fact that education never stops.”
Today, civil engineering, once a niche field, has become increasingly saturated. Yet Raahyl’s advice to future students is to embrace the profession wholeheartedly.
“My advice is to just take it , pursue your passion and always look back at the people who raised you.
Reflecting on his experience, Raahly highlighted the importance of education and staying informed about emerging technologies.
His journey has not only been about acquiring knowledge but also about adapting and growing through life’s challenges.
As for his future, Raahyl remains open to possibilities, acknowledging the uncertainty that lies ahead.
“We’ll just see what tomorrow brings but until then, I’ll continue to build the life my parents hoped I’d have.”
Pursue your dream – The Fiji Times
