May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and we’re celebrating the remarkable contributions of individuals in our industry. Learn more about their inspiring stories and insights by reading below.

Q: Can you share a bit about yourself and your cultural heritage within the AAPI region?

A: I was born in Calcutta, India, and moved to Australia at a very young age in 2003. Ever since, I’ve called Australia my home. My Indian heritage deeply influences me, particularly through values like humility, respect, and the rich traditions of community and family bonding. These cultural aspects have significantly shaped both my personal and professional life.

Q: What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you?

A: AAPI Heritage Month is a meaningful occasion to reflect on and celebrate the diverse and impactful contributions made by the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. It provides an essential opportunity to promote cultural understanding, increase visibility, and foster respect for our varied and vibrant cultures, traditions, and histories.

Q: What aspects of your cultural heritage have been most influential in your professional journey? 

A: My Indian heritage has profoundly impacted my professional journey by instilling essential values such as humility, empathy, and the importance of collaboration. It has shaped my approach to leadership—fostering inclusive teamwork, respectful dialogue, and ethical decision-making. These principles continuously drive me to build supportive professional environments where diverse perspectives are celebrated, and mutual respect is formed.

Q: Can you share a moment when you felt proud of your cultural heritage in a professional setting?

A: A particularly proud moment was organizing Harmony Day celebrations at my workplace, an event dedicated to recognizing cultural diversity and fostering inclusion. It was deeply rewarding to witness my colleagues enthusiastically participating in activities highlighting various cultures, including traditional Indian dances, cuisine, and storytelling, while also facilitating meaningful dialogues on diversity, equity, and inclusion, further strengthening cultural competence.

Q: What legacy do you hope to leave for future generations of AAPI professionals?

A: I aim to inspire future generations of AAPI professionals to take pride in their cultural heritage, encouraging them to confidently share their traditions, values, and vulnerabilities within their professional environments. My aspiration is to support them in building careers where they can thrive authentically and navigate their careers with harmony and purpose.