From freestyle sports to Boduberu drumming, Muhammad Saif Zahir, affectionately known as Saif, has made his mark across diverse fields in the Maldives. Known for his trailblazing spirit and unwavering determination, Saif has spent over 14 years inspiring a generation through his talents, passion, and perseverance.
Freestyle Pioneer
At just 18 years old, Saif burst onto the scene through freestyle sports, a discipline virtually unknown in the Maldives at the time. In 2010, he cemented his legacy by clinching the champion’s trophy at the Red Bull Freestyle Competition — not once, but twice consecutively.
Representing the Maldives at the World Finals of freestyle remains one of Saif’s proudest accomplishments. “Carrying the Maldivian flag on an international stage in an individual sport was a moment of great pride,” he recalls.
But Saif’s impact goes beyond personal accolades. Over the years, he has mentored aspiring freestylers, providing training and guidance. His inbox is often flooded with messages from young people eager to learn tricks or seek advice. “I’m proud of everyone I’ve helped along the way,” he says, demonstrating his dedication to fostering talent in the Maldives.
A Boduberu Icon
Freestyle was only the beginning of Saif’s multifaceted career. Soon, he transitioned into another realm of Maldivian culture: Boduberu.
His participation in the TVM Boduberu Challenge with Habeys Boduberu Group revealed yet another layer of his talent, earning him acclaim among Boduberu enthusiasts. Though he later left Habeys to form his own group, 1438, Saif’s presence in Boduberu remains undeniable, even as he takes occasional breaks.
“There are pauses in life, but I never truly stop,” Saif explains. Whether in freestyle or Boduberu, he believes in reprioritizing without abandoning his passions.
A Man of Action
Saif is not one to make grand announcements about his plans. Instead, he focuses on action, letting his work speak for itself. “I don’t like to talk about what I’ll do. I prefer to do it and then let the results show,” he explains.
This quiet determination has earned him respect across different spheres. His approach has also helped him avoid undue pressure, allowing him to grow organically while staying open to constructive criticism from family and friends.
Social Media and a New Era
Over the years, Saif’s priorities have evolved, shaped by his experiences and injuries sustained during his athletic career. Recently, he has shifted much of his focus to social media. With a growing fan base on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Saif now uses his presence to promote brands and connect with audiences.
“Social media is a great platform — for income, entertainment, and showcasing skills,” he says. Whether endorsing small businesses or entertaining followers, Saif has embraced this digital space with the same passion he applies to everything else.
Building the Future
Saif’s ambitions for the next five years extend beyond freestyle and Boduberu. Alongside two friends, he has registered a company aimed at expanding the scope of entertainment in the Maldives.
“Our goal is to handle events and entertainment on a larger scale,” Saif shares. While details remain under wraps, this venture reflects his commitment to creating opportunities for young people in the industry.
Despite his multifaceted talents, freestyle holds a special place in Saif’s heart. “If I had to choose, it would be freestyle. That’s where it all started,” he says. Yet, he remains equally passionate about Boduberu and other creative pursuits.
A Legacy of Dedication
From lifting the Maldivian flag on international freestyle stages to revolutionizing Boduberu and paving the way in social media, Saif has shown that versatility and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements.
As he ventures into new territories, Saif’s legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for the youth of the Maldives, proving that with passion and resilience, the possibilities are endless.