Nivz Bullyraj, a dynamic teacher from Durban, has risen to TikTok stardom by sharing life values with teenagers.
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Nivz Daniels Bullyraj, a dynamic educator and content creator from Durban, has captivated audiences with his unique blend of teaching, dancing, and style.
Born and raised in a middle-class household, Bullyraj has always been driven by his passions, embracing the philosophy that self-discovery unfolds through everyday life experiences.
After earning both his degree and honours in Education from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, his journey took an unexpected turn when he began sharing his life in and out of the classroom on social media.
Bullyraj's foray into TikTok was unplanned. He started with basic carpooling videos, lip-sync performances, and daily outfit showcases.
Amassing 100 followers was a moment of celebration for him, but each post garnering more than 100 views inspired him to keep going.
Today, his authenticity shines through, with over a million views on some videos, thanks largely to encouragement from his students.
Bullyraj often shares moments from the classroom and his interactions with learners.
"My students inspire me," he says. "A young girl came up to me one day and said, 'Sir, if I pass English and attain an A, can I please make a video with you, and can you post it online?'
"I thought, 'Sure, sounds like a plan.' She obtained 85%, and I had to keep my word. To my surprise, that video reached over 1 million views."
Recognising a gap in extracurricular activities at his school, Bullyraj wanted to introduce dance to his learners and teach them the beauty of Indian beats while also exploring Amapiano and Gqom.
"I took a risk and approached my principal, asking if I could teach my students the art of Bollywood dance. He agreed, and my kids insisted I post these videos. With the permission of their parents, I started sharing them, and my following increased."
Teaching teenagers can be both challenging and rewarding. "Honestly, it’s the comfort my kids feel around me," Bullyraj explains.
"The love I receive from them is unmatched. It’s the ability to touch lives and create a safe space for my kids."
He emphasises the importance of being a mentor, saying, "They feel solace in coming to me, letting their guards down and seeking advice about issues they cannot discuss with their families."
Bullyraj believes that his purpose is not to become a millionaire but to feel like one through the lives he touches daily.
"That is worth more than any cheque," he asserts.
Much of Bullyraj's content addresses respect, relationships, and how men should treat women.
"The comfort zones I create allow learners a space to open up to me," he says.
"They come to me, pouring their hearts out about issues like abuse in their families. This shakes my being and breaks my heart."
He uses his platform to promote love, respect, dignity, righteousness, and unity.
"I believe that a woman abused is the nation abused; a woman disrespected is Mother Nature disrespected."
Bullyraj's close bond with his mother has influenced his values.
"She taught me the importance of respecting women and the pain they endure daily," he shares. "I try to instil my mother's teachings on respect in my children."
With a growing following and millions of likes on his videos, Bullyraj reflects on how this growth has changed his life.
"This question gives me goosebumps. I am not famous; I am well-known," he clarifies.
"I have been approached by NGOs, charity events, and upliftment initiatives to perform because people love watching me dance."
He acknowledges that this journey has taught him humility, as he has travelled to rural areas showcasing Bollywood dance and raising funds for various initiatives.
"My brand has grown over the years, but I remain steadfast in humanity and upliftment," he insists.
Bullyraj has collaborated with brands he never thought he would be acknowledged by, including David Beckham and Azzaro.
"My platform also uplifts and promotes small businesses. I know what it’s like to start a business and not gain traction."
Bullyraj is also known for his strong sense of style.
"My mother always said, 'Dress for yourself, not anyone else.' That’s what I did," he explains.
"I believe that style has no gender, size, or feel; it comes from within."
He embraces his individuality, stating, "People know me because I am unapologetically me. I dress the way I feel to make myself happy."
Initially, many educators had an orthodox perspective on Bullyraj's online presence.
However, he notes that over time, they began to acknowledge the importance of relatability in the digital era.
"I remember a formal letter being drawn up against me, stating that I was using the school as an 'entertainment backdrop' for social media," he recalls.
"This broke my spirit for a while, but I realised I could not stop being me because of one or two unhappy people."
Bullyraj maintains that his academic performance remains impeccable, with a 95%-100% pass rate among his Grade 12 students.
"My videos are made during free periods, after school, and during breaks, never affecting academic time," he asserts.
When asked what advice he would give to young people who want to pursue teaching while building a voice on social media, Bullyraj says, "Don’t wait for perfection. The only way to succeed is authenticity. Never care what people say; listen to your heart and remember your teachings."
He reflects on his journey, stating, "I am successful today because I remember the sacrifices my parents made for me. From selling hot dogs on the beachfront to living in a wood and iron house, they sacrificed so much to ensure I could have a future."
"Growth takes time; allow yourself grace for mistakes. Don’t be too hard on yourself; it’s all part of life. Live in the moment but be anchored by principles."