By V. Shuman

"The best way to predict the future is to create it," goes a quote by former American president Abraham Lincoln.

Kavievanan Subramaniam is a living testament to this.

The 24-year-old Mechanical Engineering graduate from Uniten did not sit on his laurels when he had difficulties finding a job after graduating in February last year - no thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Instead, he decided to turn his love for Masala tea into a business, which is now flourishing.

Astro Ulagam caught up with the inspiring youth to talk about his journey.

"I was looking for a job after graduating, but not many companies were hiring then. Instead of sitting at home doing nothing, I wanted to try something new that is not usually done in Malaysia.

"I have always loved masala tea, so I thought why not start selling that for a living," he recalled.

As much as he loved drinking the beverage, he was not yet an expert in preparing it, until his mother taught him how to do it. Kavievanan also learned from traders from India on how to prepare tea, the "real Indian" style.

After learning the tricks of the trade, Kavievanan added his own secret ingredient to start selling masala tea off the back of a bicycle in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, in mid-May last year.

Business Takes Off

He also has a friend now helping him sell the crowd favourite from a bicycle in Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur.

What started off a 30 cups a day business has now evolved to become 100 cups a day, at each spot.

Kavievanan and his friend are usually found peddling the crowd favourite astride a bicycle, every day of the week, from 3pm to 5pm, come rain or shine. The tea is sold at only RM1 per cup.

According to Kavievanan, he was apprehensive about telling his family about his business venture when he initially started off.

However, when he did eventually tell them, they were very supportive.

For now, Kavievanan hopes to find a fixed spot, either in Brickfields or Masjid India, to further his business.

"I love doing this. I don't think I will let this (business) go even if I get a job anytime soon," he said.

His advice to youths his age who might find it difficult to secure a job is "do what you love".

"Times are hard now, especially in the pandemic. Instead of waiting for a job you want or like to come to you, find something you like and commit to it. Your future will be bright."

Such an inspiring youth indeed! At a time when youths his age are either whining about not getting their "dream job", or utilize the extra time in their hands to get involved in scams or crimes, Kavievanan decided to take charge of his future by setting aside ego, and capitalizing on his love for masala tea.

Should you find yourself around Brickfields, and happen to crave for masala tea, do call Kavievanan at 018-3900171.


Photo source: UnderMYPayung Facebook page