This profound question has been a cornerstone of human contemplation for centuries. As the Dalai Lama once said, “The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” Yet, happiness often eludes us when we seek it directly. Instead, it is found in the meaningful pursuit of our passions and the service of others. Sadhguru echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that “If you resist change, you resist life.” Life is a journey of constant evolution, driven by our desire to make sense of our existence and to leave a lasting impact on the world around us.

According to Viktor Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, “Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose.” Our search for purpose is what gives our lives direction and fulfillment. This quest often leads us to explore various facets of our identity, shaping and redefining our understanding of ourselves and our role in the world. It is through this exploration that we uncover the deeper truths of our existence.

Reflecting on my journey, I see a tapestry of diverse experiences and roles that have all contributed to who I am today. From a very young age, I remember feeling a strong sense of discomfort with the “status quo,” questioning everything around me that, in my opinion, contributed to societal stagnation. I have always felt a deep-seated need to help others and serve a cause greater than myself. While the exact nature of this purpose has evolved, the essence remains unchanged – to leave the world better than I found it.

Diverse Roles, Unified Purpose

Over the past 25 years, I have worn many hats. I have been an engineer, an entrepreneur, a community developer, and a mentor. Each role has taught me invaluable lessons and reinforced my commitment to fostering positive change through human-centered design and innovation. My career spans founding technology startups, supporting social enterprises, and leading strategic initiatives in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors.

At the Ottawa Community Foundation (OCF), where I serve as the Director of Corporate Services and Social Innovation, I have the privilege of leveraging my diverse background to enhance organizational efficiency and amplify social impact. My role involves strategic planning, operational management, and fostering partnerships that drive innovation and sustainable growth. My work at OCF is a testament to my belief in the transformative power of technology and philanthropy.

Entrepreneurship and Community Impact

Upon landing in Canada, I co-founded OAK Computing, driven by a vision to create innovative technology solutions for community organizations and small businesses. This venture was a significant milestone, allowing me to combine my technical expertise with my passion for social impact. At OAK, we developed bespoke solutions that empowered local enterprises, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

My career has not been confined to the professional realm. I have always been deeply involved in community work, serving as a Trustee with Kiva Zip, a Strategic Advisor with Mindtrust Leadership and Junior Achievements Ottawa, and a Charter Member with TiE Global. The leadership contributions I made in my community engagements not only helped me develop a deep community knowledge but also helped me polish and deploy my talents and knowledge in the service of community betterment. Additionally, I have served in governance roles on two different committees at the City of Ottawa, and as a board member with HUB Ottawa and Mindtrust Leadership. I have also had the privilege of working as a strategic coach, consultant, and advisor with more than 20 local community organizations. These roles have allowed me to mentor emerging leaders and contribute to various social causes, further aligning my professional endeavors with my personal values.

A Technician of Change

As I stand at this midpoint in my life, I find myself contemplating my future role. The world we live in is rapidly changing, and so too must our approaches to leadership and impact. I am drawn to the analogy of a technician who quietly, without being noticed, without any pomp and show, goes about his work checking a plane so that it can be ready for its next flight. He works in the shadows to make sure that others can fly. This role resonates with me now more than ever. My experience has equipped me to tackle obstacles head-on, creating space for the next generation to innovate and lead.

Reflecting on my past, I realize that my diverse experiences have been akin to packing a bag for a long journey. Each role, each challenge, and each success has added a new tool or lesson to my repertoire. Now, as I begin this new phase, I am ready to climb the mountain equipped with the wisdom and resilience gained from my journey so far.

Embracing the Future

In this next phase, I embrace the wisdom of leaders like the Dalai Lama and Sadhguru, who teach that true fulfillment comes from serving others and being present in each moment. The journey ahead is not just about personal achievements but about enabling others to reach their full potential. It is about being the force that clears the path, breaks cycles, and creates opportunities for new ideas to flourish. This is my new mantra – to be a facilitator of change, to support and empower those who are poised to build a better future.

My path began in the bustling streets of India, where I grew up with a keen interest in technology and a curiosity about the world around me. This curiosity led me to pursue a degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Guru Nanak Dev University. From there, I ventured to the United States to earn my Master’s in Computer Engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago. These formative years abroad shaped my global perspective and deepened my understanding of technology’s potential to drive change.

Concluding Thoughts

Throughout my career, I have been recognized for my contributions to both the professional and community spheres. I was honored with the 2013 City of Ottawa Immigrant Entrepreneur Award and named a Top 75 Finalist for the 2014 RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrants Award. These accolades are not just personal achievements; they reflect the collective efforts of the incredible teams and communities I have had the privilege to work with.

Beyond my professional life, I have dedicated countless hours to mentoring and supporting the next generation of leaders. Whether through my involvement with Junior Achievements Ottawa, my advisory roles, or my participation in global networks like TiE, I am committed to fostering a culture of learning, innovation, and empowerment.

In essence, my life’s work is about continuous evolution, learning, and contribution. It is about staying true to my purpose of making a positive impact and being courageous enough to follow it wherever it leads. As I embark on this new journey, I invite others to join me in creating a world that is better than we found it.

Let’s connect, collaborate, and co-create a future filled with hope, empathy, and lasting positive change.