Kavita defies odds
KOYAL Kavita from Tadra, Votualevu in Nadi, reflects on her journey from a humble upbringing in Fiji to her current endeavours in India where she is general secretary of the Foreign Students’ Society at the Sri Guru Gobind Singh College of Commerce, Delhi University.
She fondly recalls her childhood.
“I come from a very average family in which we didn’t have much, but we had what we needed,” she said.
Despite financial limitations, Ms Kavita’s parents instilled in her the values of hard work and perseverance.
“My parents, they’re originally from Ba, but had to move to Nadi for a better life.”
As she progressed through her education at Votualevu primary and high schools, she excelled academically. Her pursuit of higher education led her to the University of the South Pacific where she initially studied finance.
“I never really had a goal in the back of my mind,” she says.
“I knew I wanted to help people and I thought that would be through accounting.”
Ms Kavita’s perspective broadened during her time at USP where she encountered diverse cultures and experiences.
“Before, I never really imagined making friends with people of various backgrounds.”
However, her willingness to embrace new environments and connect with others led her to explore opportunities beyond her comfort zone.
“After a few years at USP, I gained my first internship at EXTRA supermarket where I joined the finance department.
“And I moved from internship to internship, constantly gaining experience.”
When COVID struck and everyone was forced to stay home, it affected Ms Kavita too because she was put out of work.
“That was also a very hard time not just for me, but for everyone else.
“My parents thought it would be much safer if I went back home. So I left Suva before things got intense and went home to Nadi where they needed me.”
Despite the initial difficulties, she adapted to her surroundings, embracing the opportunity to study abroad.
“When I found this scholarship, I consulted with my parents first who were very supportive of my interest to study abroad.
“And so, we went through the whole application process, and I got accepted.
“It was a very proud moment for me and my family that we held a sort of ceremony at the mandir.”
The celebration was fitting for a child that has accomplished much to study abroad, and of all places, in the home of her ancestors.
Ms Kavita reminisces her journey, recalling that when she arrived in India, the first challenge she faced was the language.
“Also, India is a very big and somewhat developed nation, but I would get sick every now and then because of the food and water.”
As she embarked on her role as general secretary of the Foreign Students’ Society at the Sri Guru Gobind Singh College of Commerce, Delhi University, she recognised the importance of inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives.
“Deeply ingrained in Fijian culture is the value of sevusevu, which translates to respect and honouring others.”
Through her leadership, she aimed to foster a welcoming atmosphere for international students, drawing upon her own experiences as a Fijian abroad.
Looking towards the future, Ms Kavita expresses a commitment to making a difference in her homeland. She acknowledges her parents and other supportive individuals who influenced her journey.
“My inspiration is my mother who struggled to put food on our table and raise us.”
Ms Kavita hopes to continue helping others.
“The future is always uncertain, that’s for sure, anything can happen, really.
“Once I return to Fiji, I am looking to help our nation in any way possible.”
Her desire to help others stems from her hardworking parents.
“My mother worked very hard and stayed strong and it inspires me everyday.
“I feel like if I am able to do five per cent of what she does, I’ll be a better person. And I want to be as humble as my father, kind and respectful.
“I acknowledge my parents, Mrs Mohini Lata and Mr Kamlesh, as well as my brother Prakash.
“Also Gyan Updesh Ramayan Mandali, Mr Sawan Shiva Prakash Mandali, as well as my aunty, who I would call every night and she would just talk to me and also give to my parents when I wanted to talk to them.
“Aunt Rohini Lata Mama and a few other people, Mr Shymal Tiwari uncle, Mr Sanjay Chetty uncle and Mr Ravinesh Singh.
“I would like to acknowledge these people. For constant support, also the Fiji students in Delhi who are like a family away from family,”
With humility and determination, Ms Kavita aspires to contribute positively to her community, embodying the values instilled by her upbringing.
By way of advice to the younger generation, she encourages them to pursue their passions and embrace opportunities for growth.
As she puts it: “Seize every opportunity and remember that where you come from doesn’t define who you are.”