Rylan Kumar: A Young Footballer’s Journey to the New Zealand Under-16 National Team

In this episode, we hear directly from 15-year-old Rylan Kumar, who shares his inspiring football journey and the remarkable path that has taken him to representing New Zealand at Under-16 level.

With strong Indo-Fijian roots, Rylan speaks about his early love for football, which began when he was just five years old, and the dedication, hard work and passion that have shaped his journey.

Rylan’s football résumé is already impressive. He currently plays for Auckland United and is part of the Auckland FC Development Squad, after developing his skills at Fencibles United. He also represents St Kentigern College First XI, which remains unbeaten this season.

His journey has also been closely connected to the Fiji and Sangam communities. Rylan has captained Ba to Under-14 and Under-16 championship titles at the NZFFI youth tournament and has been part of back-to-back Sangam Convention football championship-winning teams.

In the podcast, Rylan reflects on the moment he found out he had been selected for the New Zealand Under-16 squad, what it means to represent his country, the influence of his coaches and mentors, and the people who have supported him along the way.

He also talks about his football inspiration, Zinedine Zidane, his ambitions for the future and his dream of becoming a professional footballer.

Rylan’s story is one of determination, family, culture and a genuine love for the beautiful game. His journey is an inspiration to young footballers across New Zealand and Fiji—and a proud moment for the Indo-Fijian community.

Rylan Kumar: A Young Footballer&rsquo;s Journey to the New Zealand Under-16 National Team
In this episode, we hear directly from 15-year-old Rylan Kumar, who shares his inspiring football journey and the remarkable path that has taken him to representing New Zealand at Under-16 level.
With strong Indo-Fijian roots, Rylan speaks about his early love for football, which began when he was just five years old, and the dedication, hard work and passion that have shaped his journey.
Rylan&rsquo;s football r&eacute;sum&eacute; is already impressive. He currently plays for Auckland United and is part of the Auckland FC Development Squad, after developing his skills at Fencibles United. He also represents St Kentigern College First XI, which remains unbeaten this season.
His journey has also been closely connected to the Fiji and Sangam communities. Rylan has captained Ba to Under-14 and Under-16 championship titles at the NZFFI youth tournament and has been part of back-to-back Sangam Convention football championship-winning teams.
In the podcast, Rylan reflects on the moment he found out he had been selected for the New Zealand Under-16 squad, what it means to represent his country, the influence of his coaches and mentors, and the people who have supported him along the way.
He also talks about his football inspiration, Zinedine Zidane, his ambitions for the future and his dream of becoming a professional footballer.
Rylan&rsquo;s story is one of determination, family, culture and a genuine love for the beautiful game. His journey is an inspiration to young footballers across New Zealand and Fiji&mdash;and a proud moment for the Indo-Fijian community.

Gen Z Stars, hosted by Sonal Sharma, is a podcast created to shine a spotlight on the incredible young people making their mark across New Zealand.

From sports and music to arts, culture, education, entrepreneurship and other fields of expertise, the podcast gives Gen Z talent an opportunity to share their journey, achievements, challenges and dreams.

There are so many talented young people living in New Zealand whose stories are inspiring, motivating and worth celebrating. Yet, many of these young achievers rarely receive attention because their journeys don’t always make it into mainstream news.

That’s where Gen Z Stars comes in.

Through this podcast, Tarana will connect with young New Zealanders who are doing remarkable things — giving them a platform to tell their own stories, share their experiences and inspire others from their generation.

Hosted by Sonal Sharma, each episode will go beyond the achievements to discover the person behind the talent — their passion, determination, struggles, successes and what motivates them to keep chasing their goals.

Whether they are rising stars in sport, creative artists, performers, young entrepreneurs, academic achievers or simply young people making a positive difference in their communities, Gen Z Stars is about celebrating their voices and showing that extraordinary talent can be found everywhere.

Because every young person has a story — and Tarana wants to help share those stories with New Zealand.

 Gen Z Stars with Sonal Sharma — celebrating the next generation of talent, one inspiring story at a time.

Gen Z Stars, hosted by&nbsp;Sonal Sharma, is a podcast created to shine a spotlight on the incredible young people making their mark across New Zealand.
From&nbsp;sports and music to arts, culture, education, entrepreneurship and other fields of expertise, the podcast gives Gen Z talent an opportunity to share their journey, achievements, challenges and dreams.
There are so many talented young people living in New Zealand whose stories are inspiring, motivating and worth celebrating. Yet, many of these young achievers rarely receive attention because their journeys don&rsquo;t always make it into mainstream news.
That&rsquo;s where&nbsp;Gen Z Stars&nbsp;comes in.
Through this podcast,&nbsp;Tarana&nbsp;will connect with young New Zealanders who are doing remarkable things &mdash; giving them a platform to tell their own stories, share their experiences and inspire others from their generation.
Hosted by Sonal Sharma, each episode will go beyond the achievements to discover the&nbsp;person behind the talent&nbsp;&mdash; their passion, determination, struggles, successes and what motivates them to keep chasing their goals.
Whether they are rising stars in sport, creative artists, performers, young entrepreneurs, academic achievers or simply young people making a positive difference in their communities,&nbsp;Gen Z Stars&nbsp;is about celebrating their voices and showing that extraordinary talent can be found everywhere.
Because every young person has a story &mdash; and&nbsp;Tarana wants to help share those stories with New Zealand.
&nbsp;Gen Z Stars with Sonal Sharma &mdash; celebrating the next generation of talent, one inspiring story at a time.

Gen Z Stars

Gen Z Stars - Episode 4

Savera Sidhu’s journey has never been a straight line. From finishing Year 12 and starting university early to discovering just how far karate could take her, each chapter has shaped the person she is becoming.
Karate became a defining part of Savera’s life. A 1st Dan Black Belt with more than 20 medals, she represented New Zealand at the Asia Pacific Shitoryu Karatedo Championships in Singapore, placing fifth. She was building towards a competitive future when a knee injury brought that pathway to an unexpected end. Although she had to step away from competitive karate, the resilience, discipline and determination it gave her did not stop there.
Savera channelled that energy into something new, founding Bright Start, a youth wellbeing initiative created to help young people feel supported, heard and confident. Since then, Bright Start has reached more than 350 rangatahi through workshops, created a 15 page educator toolkit and gathered more than 1,200 signatures through a petition calling for preventative mental health support in primary schools.
Her work has also led her into youth focused initiatives including the 5Rights Youth Council and Girl Rising, where she has contributed to conversations around young people, education and technology.
Now studying Psychology and Criminology at the University of Auckland, Savera is continuing to explore where her experiences, interests and ambitions can take her next.
What began as a change in direction became a new beginning. For Savera, the path forward is not about replacing what was lost, but building something meaningful from everything that came before.
I’m really looking forward to seeing the episode come together!

Savera Sidhu&rsquo;s journey has never been a straight line. From finishing Year 12 and starting university early to discovering just how far karate could take her, each chapter has shaped the person she is becoming. Karate became a defining part of Savera&rsquo;s life. A 1st Dan Black Belt with more than 20 medals, she represented New Zealand at the Asia Pacific Shitoryu Karatedo Championships in Singapore, placing fifth. She was building towards a competitive future when a knee injury brought that pathway to an unexpected end. Although she had to step away from competitive karate, the resilience, discipline and determination it gave her did not stop there. Savera channelled that energy into something new, founding Bright Start, a youth wellbeing initiative created to help young people feel supported, heard and confident. Since then, Bright Start has reached more than 350 rangatahi through workshops, created a 15 page educator toolkit and gathered more than 1,200 signatures through a petition calling for preventative mental health support in primary schools. Her work has also led her into youth focused initiatives including the 5Rights Youth Council and Girl Rising, where she has contributed to conversations around young people, education and technology. Now studying Psychology and Criminology at the University of Auckland, Savera is continuing to explore where her experiences, interests and ambitions can take her next. What began as a change in direction became a new beginning. For Savera, the path forward is not about replacing what was lost, but building something meaningful from everything that came before. I&rsquo;m really looking forward to seeing the episode come together!

Gen Z Stars - Episode 3

Krishna Patel: A Young Cricketer with Big Dreams and a Realistic Vision

For young cricketer Krishna Patel, cricket is much more than just a sport. It is a passion that began in the backyard with his father and has gradually developed into a journey filled with dedication, challenges, achievements and dreams for the future.

Born in New Zealand, Krishna has been playing cricket since the age of six. Today, he represents Waitakere Cricket Club, where he continues to develop his skills as a talented batter. His love for the game started naturally at home, where he would often play cricket in the backyard with his father, Falgun Patel.

Like many fathers who introduce their children to the sport they love, Falgun spent countless hours playing cricket with Krishna and encouraging his interest. Falgun himself continues to play social cricket every Thursday, keeping his own connection with the game alive.

When Krishna’s parents realised that his interest in cricket was more than just a childhood hobby, they decided to give him the opportunity to develop his talent. He joined New Lynn Cricket Club, where he played for several years before eventually moving to Waitakere Cricket Club.

His cricketing journey also continued through his school years at Mt Albert Grammar School. Krishna represented the school cricket team and experienced some memorable moments during his time there. In 2023, while he was in Year 12, the school team reached the final, giving him the opportunity to play at a high level in school cricket.

One of his proud achievements came when he was part of the team that won the Auckland T20 competition. Although the team narrowly missed out on progressing to the national competition, the experience gave Krishna valuable lessons and memories that have stayed with him.

Behind Krishna’s progress has been enormous commitment from his family. He fondly remembers the time and effort his parents invested in his cricket development when he was younger. Training twice a week, sometimes until 10pm, became part of his routine. As he progressed, his training increased to three to five sessions a week, combining team practices with his own individual training.

Both his parents have played an important role in that journey. Krishna particularly wants to acknowledge his mother, Roshni Patel, for the support and sacrifices she has made along the way. For Krishna, having parents who consistently encouraged him and made time for his cricket has been a major part of his development, both as a player and as a person.

Krishna’s journey has not been without setbacks. He recently faced a significant challenge when he suffered a shoulder injury that kept him out of cricket for seven months. Being away from the sport he loves was difficult, but the experience also taught him patience, resilience and the importance of working his way back carefully.

Now back on the cricket field, Krishna is determined to make the most of every opportunity. He wants to continue playing cricket and see how far the game can take him, while also keeping his feet firmly on the ground.

That realistic approach is also reflected in his education. Krishna is currently studying for a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) at the University of Auckland. While cricket remains an important part of his life, he understands that having a strong education and keeping other career options open is equally important.

His cricketing role model is Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli, whom Krishna admires for his passion, intensity, discipline and commitment to the game. Krishna has also had the opportunity to meet New Zealand cricket great Kane Williamson, another experience that has added to his appreciation of the sport.

For Krishna, cricket has offered lessons that go well beyond batting, bowling and winning matches. He believes the sport has helped him make friends, communicate with different people and learn how to deal with different personalities. More importantly, cricket has taught him how to handle failure.

Every dismissal, lost match, injury or missed opportunity becomes part of the learning process. Krishna understands that success in cricket, just like success in life, does not come without setbacks. What matters is how a person responds and comes back from those difficult moments.

With the support of his parents, the experience gained through school and club cricket, and his own determination to keep improving, Krishna Patel is continuing to build his cricketing journey one step at a time.

His dreams are big, but his approach is grounded. For now, he simply wants to keep playing the game he has loved since he was six, continue improving as a batter, enjoy the friendships and experiences cricket brings, and see where the journey takes him.

For a young man who started with a cricket bat in the backyard with his father, the journey so far is already something to be proud of — and there could be many more chapters still to come.

Krishna Patel: A Young Cricketer with Big Dreams and a Realistic Vision
For young cricketer Krishna Patel, cricket is much more than just a sport. It is a passion that began in the backyard with his father and has gradually developed into a journey filled with dedication, challenges, achievements and dreams for the future.
Born in New Zealand, Krishna has been playing cricket since the age of six. Today, he represents Waitakere Cricket Club, where he continues to develop his skills as a talented batter. His love for the game started naturally at home, where he would often play cricket in the backyard with his father, Falgun Patel.
Like many fathers who introduce their children to the sport they love, Falgun spent countless hours playing cricket with Krishna and encouraging his interest. Falgun himself continues to play social cricket every Thursday, keeping his own connection with the game alive.
When Krishna&rsquo;s parents realised that his interest in cricket was more than just a childhood hobby, they decided to give him the opportunity to develop his talent. He joined New Lynn Cricket Club, where he played for several years before eventually moving to Waitakere Cricket Club.
His cricketing journey also continued through his school years at Mt Albert Grammar School. Krishna represented the school cricket team and experienced some memorable moments during his time there. In 2023, while he was in Year 12, the school team reached the final, giving him the opportunity to play at a high level in school cricket.
One of his proud achievements came when he was part of the team that won the Auckland T20 competition. Although the team narrowly missed out on progressing to the national competition, the experience gave Krishna valuable lessons and memories that have stayed with him.
Behind Krishna&rsquo;s progress has been enormous commitment from his family. He fondly remembers the time and effort his parents invested in his cricket development when he was younger. Training twice a week, sometimes until 10pm, became part of his routine. As he progressed, his training increased to three to five sessions a week, combining team practices with his own individual training.
Both his parents have played an important role in that journey. Krishna particularly wants to acknowledge his mother, Roshni Patel, for the support and sacrifices she has made along the way. For Krishna, having parents who consistently encouraged him and made time for his cricket has been a major part of his development, both as a player and as a person.
Krishna&rsquo;s journey has not been without setbacks. He recently faced a significant challenge when he suffered a shoulder injury that kept him out of cricket for seven months. Being away from the sport he loves was difficult, but the experience also taught him patience, resilience and the importance of working his way back carefully.
Now back on the cricket field, Krishna is determined to make the most of every opportunity. He wants to continue playing cricket and see how far the game can take him, while also keeping his feet firmly on the ground.
That realistic approach is also reflected in his education. Krishna is currently studying for a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) at the University of Auckland. While cricket remains an important part of his life, he understands that having a strong education and keeping other career options open is equally important.
His cricketing role model is Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli, whom Krishna admires for his passion, intensity, discipline and commitment to the game. Krishna has also had the opportunity to meet New Zealand cricket great Kane Williamson, another experience that has added to his appreciation of the sport.
For Krishna, cricket has offered lessons that go well beyond batting, bowling and winning matches. He believes the sport has helped him make friends, communicate with different people and learn how to deal with different personalities. More importantly, cricket has taught him how to handle failure.
Every dismissal, lost match, injury or missed opportunity becomes part of the learning process. Krishna understands that success in cricket, just like success in life, does not come without setbacks. What matters is how a person responds and comes back from those difficult moments.
With the support of his parents, the experience gained through school and club cricket, and his own determination to keep improving, Krishna Patel is continuing to build his cricketing journey one step at a time.
His dreams are big, but his approach is grounded. For now, he simply wants to keep playing the game he has loved since he was six, continue improving as a batter, enjoy the friendships and experiences cricket brings, and see where the journey takes him.
For a young man who started with a cricket bat in the backyard with his father, the journey so far is already something to be proud of &mdash; and there could be many more chapters still to come.

Gen Z Stars - Episode 2

en Z Stars, hosted by Sonal Sharma, is a podcast created to shine a spotlight on the incredible young people making their mark across New Zealand.

From sports and music to arts, culture, education, entrepreneurship and other fields of expertise, the podcast gives Gen Z talent an opportunity to share their journey, achievements, challenges and dreams.

There are so many talented young people living in New Zealand whose stories are inspiring, motivating and worth celebrating. Yet, many of these young achievers rarely receive attention because their journeys don’t always make it into mainstream news.

That’s where Gen Z Stars comes in.

Through this podcast, Tarana will connect with young New Zealanders who are doing remarkable things — giving them a platform to tell their own stories, share their experiences and inspire others from their generation.

Hosted by Sonal Sharma, each episode will go beyond the achievements to discover the person behind the talent — their passion, determination, struggles, successes and what motivates them to keep chasing their goals.

Whether they are rising stars in sport, creative artists, performers, young entrepreneurs, academic achievers or simply young people making a positive difference in their communities, Gen Z Stars is about celebrating their voices and showing that extraordinary talent can be found everywhere.

Because every young person has a story — and Tarana wants to help share those stories with New Zealand.

 Gen Z Stars with Sonal Sharma — celebrating the next generation of talent, one inspiring story at a time.

en Z Stars, hosted by&nbsp;Sonal Sharma, is a podcast created to shine a spotlight on the incredible young people making their mark across New Zealand.
From&nbsp;sports and music to arts, culture, education, entrepreneurship and other fields of expertise, the podcast gives Gen Z talent an opportunity to share their journey, achievements, challenges and dreams.
There are so many talented young people living in New Zealand whose stories are inspiring, motivating and worth celebrating. Yet, many of these young achievers rarely receive attention because their journeys don&rsquo;t always make it into mainstream news.
That&rsquo;s where&nbsp;Gen Z Stars&nbsp;comes in.
Through this podcast,&nbsp;Tarana&nbsp;will connect with young New Zealanders who are doing remarkable things &mdash; giving them a platform to tell their own stories, share their experiences and inspire others from their generation.
Hosted by Sonal Sharma, each episode will go beyond the achievements to discover the&nbsp;person behind the talent&nbsp;&mdash; their passion, determination, struggles, successes and what motivates them to keep chasing their goals.
Whether they are rising stars in sport, creative artists, performers, young entrepreneurs, academic achievers or simply young people making a positive difference in their communities,&nbsp;Gen Z Stars&nbsp;is about celebrating their voices and showing that extraordinary talent can be found everywhere.
Because every young person has a story &mdash; and&nbsp;Tarana wants to help share those stories with New Zealand.
&nbsp;Gen Z Stars with Sonal Sharma &mdash; celebrating the next generation of talent, one inspiring story at a time.

Gen Z Stars - Episode 4

Gen Z Stars

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