Abdul Imraz never thought he would be a barber one day.

The 23-year-old from Visama, a few kilometres outside Nausori town, grew up with a dream of working in the Information Technology (IT) industry.

However, destiny had its own way and he got swayed into a job that focused on his innate sense of creativity.

After completing his primary education at Makoi Muslim Primary School and secondary education at Nasinu Muslim College, Imraz had an inkling that he wouldn’t be able pursue studies in IT.

Like many his age, he encountered hardships while considering a career and quickly tried his luck on hair dressing.

He found he had creative and artist talents.

Coupled with his friendly and bubbly personality, he later landed a job at Super Fade Cut on Victoria Parade in Suva.

“I love my work,” Imraz said.

“My childhood dream was to work in the IT industry but due to some problems, I wasn’t able to pursue my education in that field and fulfil my dream.

“My second interest was in barbering and salon services. So, when I couldn’t do IT, I decided to join this field. I took interest and learned how to cut various types of hairstyles.

“I knew that I would be able to succeed in this field, that’s why I didn’t waste my time and straight after school, I started gaining barbering skills.”

Imraz found work at a small barber shop in Nausori and used his time there to learn about the trade and hone his hairdressing skills. While he has moved to greener pastures, he recognises the nurturing and mentoring support he got from his first employer.

“I am thankful to my former boss at Wananavu Barber Shop in Nausori, who provided me the opportunity to learn the skills of the trade,” he said.

“I didn’t know how to cut hair when I started. I had no knowledge at all. But today, I can cut any hairstyle my customers prefer.

The decision to move to a shop in Suva hinged on the need to work in a place that offered modern and professional haircuts, a relaxing atmosphere, used quality products and allowed a good learning experience.

He found these opportunities in Super Fade Cut and since joining he has never looked back.

“In the past four years, I have learnt a lot, and I don’t think, I now have to work anywhere else.

“I am fully committed to my current work, and I enjoy every moment on the job.”

But Imraz’s life is not ‘all work no play’. To unshackle himself from the demands and physical challenges of his job, he finds solace and peace in a few leisure activities. He realises that hobbies improve mood, resilience, skills, and sense of self.

“Apart from this (barbering), my interest is in playing soccer, doing some exercise and watching movies.”

Imraz likes hard work and believes in the values of passion, determination and diligence. He says young people should get an education but if they fail, they should tap into their natural talents and do something that they enjoy.

“My advice to young school leavers is to not lose hope!”

“You can do great things that you have never dreamt of doing but you should first be willing to learn and dedicate time to the work you do.”