FOR 48-year-old Ravinesh Pal, every day begins long before sunrise.
As the owner of three minivans operating between Suva and Nausori, he understands the challenges of the transport industry better than most.
Despite the rising cost of fuel and increasing financial pressures, he continues to work tirelessly to support his family and provide reliable service to his passengers.
Originally from Koronivia, Nausori, Ravinesh has spent the last 25 years behind the wheel.
Today, two of his minivans are driven by hired drivers, while he personally operates the third.
His commitment to the business reflects years of hard work, determination, and passion.
Speaking about his journey, Ravinesh recalled his early career before entering the transport industry.
“Before becoming a minivan operator, I worked at BP Oil. I was a manager there and worked for five years. “After that, I decided to start my own business. It was a big step, but I believed in myself and worked hard to build what I have today,” he said.
His daily routine is demanding and requires long hours on the road.
“I start my day at 4:30 in the morning from Nausori. It is a hustle every day.
“I keep working until around 6pm before heading home. It’s not easy, but it is how I provide for my family,” he shared.
Ravinesh lives with his wife and two children, who remain his greatest motivation.
Despite the long hours, he finds joy in serving the people who rely on his service each day.
“I have regular passengers who know me and my van. I always greet them with a smile and make time to chat with them. After a long day, those conversations make the work worthwhile,” he said.
Driving has always been more than just a job for Ravinesh it has been a lifelong dream. “Growing up, I used to watch drivers on the road and admire what they did. I would tell myself that one day I would become a driver. Today, that dream has come true, and I’m grateful for that.”
While reflecting on the changes he has witnessed over the years, Ravinesh expressed concern about some of the challenges facing today’s younger generation.
“A lot is happening in society now that we didn’t face during our youth. There are issues like drugs, alcohol abuse, robbery, and other problems.
“Young people need to make the right choices in life. If they change their mindset and focus on positive things, they can build a better future for themselves and for Fiji.
Like many transport operators across the country, Ravinesh says the rising cost of fuel has become one of the biggest challenges affecting the industry.
“We all know fuel prices are very high now. Back in the day, we could make a decent income and comfortably provide for our families.
“Today, with fuel prices increasing, many of us are losing hope because it is becoming harder to make ends meet,” he said.
He acknowledged that every business experiences ups and downs but believes current conditions are among the toughest he has faced.
“In business, there will always be challenges, but this period has been especially difficult. We can only hope that things improve soon.”
Ravinesh ended with a heartfelt message for Fiji’s youth.
“Focus on your education and work hard for your families. Young people are the future of this country.
“If we choose the wrong path today, the future will be difficult for everyone. Stay positive, make good decisions, and together we can make Fiji a better place.”
