Solomon Islander Nash Mazini remembers the proudest moment of his life as when he walked the aisle at the Fiji National University’s (FNU’s) graduation ceremony in March this year to receive his Bachelor of Science (Computer Science & Information Systems) degree.
The regional alumnus of the university says that this moment not only made him proud but also boosted his confidence as this took him closer to securing permanent employment.
“I had started working after completing Foundation Studies and thought that was how the rest of my life would be. I never thought I would be doing further studies, and that too in Fiji.”
Mazini was born and raised in the Solomon Islands with his three siblings.
“I come from a humble middle-class family. My father was an Architect by profession, and my mother is a housewife. Though my parents faced hard times over the years, they never let my siblings and me down. I have always looked up to my parents as the pillars of success, and I am very proud of them. Sadly, my father passed away in 2008.”
Education and Career
Mazini completed Foundation Studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus in 2008. He then began working for Solomon Telekom Company Limited (STCL) as a Senior Technician – Internet Helpdesk in August 2009. In his role, he was responsible for internet service delivery support and development.
After completing four years, he was promoted to the position of Sales Consultant – Internet Services. This role required him to provide presales technical and functional support to prospective and existing internet customers while ensuring customer satisfaction through in-person sales efforts.
He worked diligently at STCL for another three years, after which he decided to undertake an academic qualification to gain technical and in-depth knowledge relevant to his work as well as to progress further in his career.
“I also felt insecure working as a senior staff without any proper qualification, knowing very well that the company can replace me with a qualified individual anytime they wished to. Therefore, I decided to undertake my undergraduate studies in 2017.”
Mazini decided to pursue a Bachelor of Science (Computer Science & Information Systems) at FNU’s College of Engineering, Science and Technology (CEST). The Solomon Islands Government-sponsored his studies.
“I saw FNU as a technical university that prepares its students for the job market. That’s why the university consistently offers several significant programmes and resources for students to help them develop as individuals and professionals. These include job interview tips, networking help, job fairs, employability skills workshops, and personalised career advice. From the beginning of the application and admissions process to the day you walk across the stage in a cap and gown ceremony, FNU is there to serve all current and future aspiring students,” shared Mazini.
He resigned in January 2017 and came to Fiji to embark on a new journey.
“It was difficult leaving my wife and kids behind and come so far. It was the first time for me to leave my home country and family to stay away for this long. It was a difficult journey. Adjusting to the new environment, culture, and people was also a bit challenging. I survived and am proud of myself to taking this step and achieving a qualification.”
Speaking about his FNU experience, Mazini said, “FNU is a very welcoming place, a very suitable environment to meet new friends, to learn different cultures and most of all to pursue my career aspirations and from the first day, I felt at home at the FNU Nasinu Campus. I have made many new friends from many different backgrounds and cultural identities. I have learnt from the very experienced and kind-hearted lecturers. There are different nationalities I came to be good friends with and learned from their experiences as well.”
“I am glad I pursued further education and thankful to FNU for helping me arrive at this juncture in my life.”
Words of Wisdom
Mazini’s advice to students is not to compare themselves to others.
“It is easy to feel helpless, mainly when it comes to academic performances. Keep in mind that each student has distinctive talents, and you have three or four years to develop yours. I believe you have to be willing to learn as you go and be yourself.”
Giving his top three tips for graduates starting in their career, he said, “be committed to your studies and career, time management is essential and keep your dreams alive.”
Mazini graduated in March 2020 and returned to the Solomon Islands. He joined STCL again, this time as an Engineer IPVPN/Cloud Services where he develops, manages, delivers and supports the maintenance and security of all IP Access and Cloud Platform Services and products for internal and external customers.