In the serene community of Velovelo, Lautoka, a young educator named Avish Kumar experienced a life-altering moment that set the course for his future. At just 24 years old, Kumar represents a new wave of Fijian teachers, but his journey into education was not sparked by traditional preparation methods.
His initial ambition directed him toward civil engineering, but the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in his plans. Faced with escalating financial struggles, he found furthering his education increasingly difficult. This moment of uncertainty became a decisive inflection point in his life.
Turning away from civil engineering, Kumar rediscovered his long-standing passion for music, a talent he cultivated informally. Although he hailed from a family without musical backgrounds, his love for singing emerged from observing kirtan singers at community gatherings and immersing himself in Bollywood and Hollywood music. His favorite Bollywood song, “Laboon Ko,” along with a beloved kirtan he enjoys—the “Sawali Surat”—fueled his musical journey.
Self-taught, Kumar learned to refine his skills by practicing and imitating the artists he admired before initiating his formal education in Music and Physical Education (PEMAC). This pivotal decision ultimately led him to a classroom where he could inspire students who were only a few years younger than him.
His relatively youthful perspective has proven to be an advantage in connecting with his students. Utilizing contemporary references and familiar teaching methods, Kumar integrates technology, engaging PowerPoint presentations, online videos, and interactive demonstrations, making learning dynamic and relevant to his students’ lives. For instance, he recalls a memorable experience teaching a Fijian student the basics of playing the harmonium, guiding him to improve his technique through focused practice.
Beyond the classroom, Kumar continues to immerse himself in music as a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist. His performances, often imbued with classical Bollywood styles, act as both an outlet for his creativity and a means to unwind after long school days.
Now with a postgraduate degree in education, Kumar is looking forward with optimism as he plans to establish a school choir and music club. This initiative aims to give students a platform to develop confidence, discipline, and self-expression through music.
Kumar’s journey illustrates a profound message: when initial aspirations falter, new and fulfilling pathways can emerge, often forged through passion, perseverance, and a belief in one’s ability to learn and grow. Through his dedication to music and education, he inspires those around him and reaffirms the value of following one’s true calling.