Note: This article is dedicated to the memory of Ahmed Wajeeh, Matharesge, M.Mulah (1956 – 2013) who had a profound impact in my professional development and served as a guiding light along the way.
Introduction
When I was 9 years old, my parents decided to move me to Male’ in the hope to get a better education. However, little did I know that the transition would prove to be more challenging than I ever anticipated.
As I stepped foot into my new school in Male’ , I was immediately struck by the stark contrast in English Proficiency. It was like diving headfirst into a deep ocean without knowing how to swim. Due to the standard gap, I had a hard time in English classes, particularly with writing and public speaking which meant that some results were not up to the mark.
After each academic year, my family and I spend the holidays back on our serene island. It was a haven of tranquility, with a pristine beach which is also where my home is. Sitting alone on the Joali, overlooking the shimmering waves, I would often find solace in the soothing sounds of the ocean. But amidst the serenity, a cloud of self-doubt loomed over me. I kept pondering if I moved Male’ too late and if first grade would have been better than fifth.
Wajeehbe stepped in
One fateful morning after Fajr, I was sitting on Joali as I often did lost in contemplation. Suddenly, a figure approached, a man with his toddler daughter on his shoulders walking towards me. He came and took a seat just a few feets away.
It was none other than our dear relative, and family doctor Ahmed Wajeeh, Matharesge, M.Mulah, a beloved personality for whom I have utmost respect. I call him Wajeehbe.
With just a glance, he sensed my sadness that shrouded my young heart. After a few minutes of silence, he picked up a broken branch and began sketching on the sand. As I sat there, captivated by his every moment, Wajeehbe shared tales that intertwined with life’s wisdom. His stories had a magnetic pull, drawing me into a world where dreams could be realized and challenges overcome. And then, in a moment that caught me off guard, he turned to me with a gentle smile and said , “Maadhin, you need to become a Finance Professional.”
At first, I thought he must be kidding. I saw a smile on his face, but in his eyes, I could tell he was dead serious.
He said, “Maadhin, don’t strive to settle at a typical work once you finish studies, don’t aim to get a mainstream job at airport or resorts or other common places. Set your sights higher. You must do something big. Simply put, you should run at Finance Minister Level”
He elaborated, “To become a leader at this level, you need three things. Listen carefully. Number 1, Be always Honest (Tell the truth no matter what). Secondly, Integrity (Do the right thing when no one is watching). Finally, obtain a professional qualification from the United Kingdom, USA, or Australia.. the choice is yours”
“Becoming such a person will make you a respected member of public and a compensated professional in the global marketplace. You will not regret it” He explained further.
Wajeehbe was a medical practitioner who dedicated his entire life to public health in the Maldives. He served in senior capacities at various hospitals and clinics across the country, notably for his commendable works at M.Muli Regional Hospital and IGMH. His discipline, expertise, and noble efforts to transform the public health of Maldives had crowned him a leader in the health sector.
Going back to the story.. I had never heard of this qualification before, so hearing someone of such a caliber discussing it with me—a young boy struggling to find his place in the education system of Male’—was quite surprising. Back then I had no idea who I would become after my 10th Grade. But after listening to Wajeehbe’s guidance, it didn’t take me long to decide that I wanted to pursue a career in accountancy.
ACCA Qualification
Soon after my A’Levels, I was barely 18 when I got the first job, and it was at the company of my dreams, Dhivehi Raajjeyge Gulhun Plc (Dhiraagu). Starting as an intern, I received a modest monthly allowance of MVR 4,000 dedicating 8-10 hours a day to my responsibilities. Every penny I earned was invested in my studies toward my ambition. Although our living standards was just above the bare minimum, my loving parents wholeheartedly supported me by subsidizing my share of household expenses so I could fully spend on my studies without the burden of loans.
With Wajeehbe’s guidance firmly etched in my mind, I chose to pursue ACCA qualification from UK. ACCA happened to be quite expensive and considered relatively tough; just 30–40% of candidates pass on average. This equates to a pass rate of 3-4 people for every 10 who sit the exam. There were moments of doubt I would be one of those lucky candidates, as I failed miserably in the early stages.
But by the grace of Allah; on 20th July 2019, I received the seal of Chartered Accountant from UK at the age of 24. It was only by the mercy of Allah SWT that a person from my background was able to achieve this renowned title. Not to mention Wajeehbe’s steadfast faith and confidence in me.
Thank you, Wajeehbe!
Today, as I stand here, I cannot help but think of the man who forever altered the course of my life when I was just a 12-year-old boy. I am filled with gratitude for his unexpected presence, for his timely words of encouragement that lifted my spirits when I most needed it. If not for his invaluable guidance, my dreams would be a complete mess, and I could have settled for a boring career doing mainstream jobs.
Because of Wajeehbe, I now have the confidence to fly high and face even bigger challenges. His trust in me inspired me to work hard and be professional. It was him who advised me to always look up high so that I could reach the ‘stars’ one day.
I wanted to let him know that I have finally reached the goal that we discussed 16 years ago. I wanted to thank him for inspiring me to become a man of honesty, integrity and loyalty at all times.
Memories of Wajeehbe
It is with great sadness that Wajeehbe is no longer with us.
A few years ago, Wajeehbe left this temporary world for eternity.
إِنَّا ِلِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ
Although Wajeehbe’s physical presence is gone, the legacy of love and respect that he left behind will forever live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him. He was a dear family member who was respected by everybody, and our family’s doctor to whom we go for any medical concern. Wajeehbe was my mentor and guiding light that helped me shape my career for a lifetime.
In a society that doesn’t put much value for being faithful, honest and loyal, Wajeehbe was a pillar of these virtues. His burning desire was to spread joy and happiness to those around him.
He worked hard to make a better future for his children. Wajeehbe knew that raising successful children meant more than simply providing their physical needs. So he nurtured Islamic values, kindled the flames of good morals, and instilled discipline in his children. Wajeehbe unlocked the secret to his children’s happiness by keeping their mother smile at all times. His love for his wife went above and beyond what most people do.
Wajeehbe was possibly the best father anyone can ask for, and perfect example of a loyal and faithful husband.
While I was growing up, Wajeehbe’s son Muslim served as a beacon of inspiration for me. I call him Muslimbe. Muslimbe is an exceptional academic performer, a stunning reciter of the Qur’an and Imam in addition to his prowess as a footballer, excelling in all of his endeavors. Yet his greatest triumph lay in the way he treated his parents and those around him, enveloping them in a cocoon of respect and love. I looked up to him as the elder brother I never had.
Conclusion
As I pen these words, my thoughts and prayers are with Muslimbe, his mother, and siblings. I trust that all are well, and fervently hope that they find peace and happiness, both in this transient world and the hereafter. And I would like them to know, with utmost Sincerity, the depth of my gratitude to their father for the impact he had in my life.
May Allah SWT grant Wajeehbe the highest levels of Jannah, transform his grave into a blossoming garden of paradise. May Allah SWT’s greatest of blessings enshroud Wajeehbe’s soul abundantly. Ameen.
Note: I discussed the topic of “Financial Freedom” in an article I published recently. The stories told by Wajeehbe on our encounter at Husnoovilla Joali 16 years ago were the impetus for this piece.
https://maadhin.com/2023/05/financial-freedom.html
Other Reference: https://health.gov.mv/dv
1 Comment
Well done brother. May Allah reward him and grant him Jannath Alfirdaus. Aameen.