1 week Ago By Fiji Sun News
From a garment factory worker to general manager risk legal and asset management at the Fiji Development Bank, Bimal Sudhakar exemplifies self-determination and hard work. He came from an average household and had to let go of his dream of becoming a nurse to create a better future for himself and his family. After completing secondary school education, he took a leap of faith, seeking to earn a decent income.
Foregoing his dream of working in the healthcare section, he opted for a job in a garment factory as his only means of income. Mr Sudhakar reflected on his time in the factory, saying earning $40 a week was something he had to live with. “Back then, earning that amount was enough to fill the cupboard, but I had to put in extra effort to chase the dream I had planned for,” Mr Sudhakar said.
“Life was really hard back then I had to give $20 to my parents from each pay check and keep the other $20 for my personal expenses.” In his quest for a better job to support his family, Mr Sudhakar worked in various roles, including as a sales executive at Mahesh Syndicate, solely to earn a source of income. Through his experience in these odd jobs, he received a job offer at the ANZ Bank as a teller.
Without formal qualifications, attended an aptitude test alongside university graduates. “That didn’t deter me from pursuing a spot as a teller. After being accepted, that was my turning point towards achieving my destiny,” he said.
While working as a bank teller, Mr Sudhakar embraced his appetite for learning about the banking system. He spent late nights at the bank, eager to expand his knowledge and test his potential. Through his dedication, he caught the attention of senior executives and was offered senior managerial positions at ANZ.
With over 20 years of experience in banking, he has no regrets about the choices he made while facing life’s struggles. “I’m glad I kept my head high despite the criticism of coming from an average household. Aiming for a better life was always in the back of my mind,” he said.
“I had my share of challenges along the way, but I’m grateful for the supportive background that pushed me to fulfill my potential.” From working as a garment worker, Mr Sudhakar now leads the Fiji Development Bank as the general manager of risk legal and asset management, as well as credit/compliance risk assessment. He believes that without the struggles he faced and the leap of faith he took, he would not have discovered his full potential to lead a team today.
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