Biography
অভীক নন্দী
Avik Nandy
अवीक नंदी
he/him
From a small town to a world of dreams
Born in Khardaha, a quaint suburb of Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, a city that has retained its title as the cultural capital of India even after the British era. Kolkata has been the nurturing ground for numerous poets, authors, artists, and directors, making it a vibrant hub of creativity. It’s a place where the sweet melody of Bengali, ironically known as the ‘Sweetest Language’ in the world, fills the air. Often referred to as the ‘Paris of India,’ the city carries an undeniable romantic charm – a term I fondly embrace.
In the early years, the dreams of the small-town kid did not stretch far, especially when surrounded by a family legacy dominated by cutthroat business rivalries. But, young as he was, he knew that he wouldn’t tread the same path as his forebears. The tales of that upbringing are both lengthy and intriguing, perhaps better enjoyed with a bowl of popcorn when the time is right.
For the first 18 years of life, the city limits were his confines, with the exception of a memorable trip to his cousin’s college in Rajasthan. That journey left an indelible mark. Later, his undergraduate education led him to the heart of India, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, a path fraught with challenges. A small-town boy who had been humorously ‘protected’ under his mother’s wing (a subtle allusion to the daily challenges he faced), he emerged as a resilient young man.
This introverted and naive kid broke out of his shell, forged lasting friendships, and ventured across the country without his parents. Eventually, his path led him to Bhutan, the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon,’ where he embarked on his first professional journey as a town planner and GIS specialist. It was a transformative experience that bestowed invaluable life lessons and an enduring sense of tranquility.
Change beckoned, and after nearly five years, he embraced a remarkable opportunity that brought him to Brisbane, where he resides today, steadfast in his pursuit of his dreams. He has grown to love his new home, yet the emotional roller coaster of this transition was unanticipated. Every moment in this journey has imparted profound wisdom and life lessons.
Join him on this odyssey from a naive boy to a dreamer with grand aspirations. He promises that many of his stories will inspire you to chase your dreams as well. The path may not always be smooth, but together, we can overcome any obstacle.
1990
Do I know you? (Apparently not.)
Until 2005
Wooden sticks, slaps, flying slippers, and an array of other 'weapons'—a kid's worst adversaries.
Until 2007
Well, 'You are too dumb to be an engineer, what a shame.' They had high hopes, didn't they?
2008
Away from home, fleeing bullies and seniors who thought slapping was a fun pastime. Childhood trauma? You don't say.
2012
Bhutan – the land of peace. The dream egg just hatched.
2018
A big man's dream: traveling halfway across the globe, all by himself!
Major achievements
Major achievements that have reshaped my entire trajectory and brought me to where I am today
2004
Diploma in creative paining
Vidyasagar Academy, Nehru Children's Museum
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2006
Winner - International children art competition, Egypt
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2008
University Merit Scholarship - Undergraduate degree
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2017
Australian Government Endeavour Scholarship - Postgraduate degree
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2019
Dean commendation - Postgraduate degree
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2021
Blue Economy CRC and University of Queensland Scholarship - Doctoral degree
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~ maybe not so dumb after all ! ~
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