From a Dream at 13 to Building Dreams for Others – My Journey to Australia
Sometimes a dream begins long before we even understand its meaning.
For me, it started when I was 13 years old in my hometown in Maharashtra, India. Like millions of cricket lovers, I spent my early mornings watching the Australian summer of cricket. The bright sunshine, the fast pitches, the electric atmosphere of the stadiums — everything about Australia fascinated me. One place especially captured my imagination: The Gabba.
At that age, Australia felt impossibly far away. But quietly, a dream had taken root — one day I would go there.
The Courage to Begin
In the mid-1990s, I decided to follow that dream and moved to Australia to pursue higher studies.
I arrived with no family, no friends, and no connections. In fact, the only thing I truly knew about Australia at that time was The Gabba cricket ground.
Back then, very few people from my town in Maharashtra had travelled abroad. Seeing someone from my region in Australia was rare.
I came with just one semester’s fees paid and ₹10,000 in my pocket. My plan was simple but risky — work hard, earn the rest of the money, and somehow finish my studies.
Those early days were tough. Like many international students, I worked long hours to support myself while continuing my education. Every shift, every assignment, every small success helped me move one step closer to my goal.
Looking back, those struggles became my greatest teachers.
The First Victory
Within 18 months, I completed my Master’s degree.
That achievement gave me something much bigger than a qualification — it gave me belief.
I realised that dreams can come true, even when they seem unrealistic at first.
With that confidence and the encouragement of friends, I decided to challenge myself again. Soon, I received my first international professional opportunity in Hong Kong, where I spent five incredible years building my career and learning from a truly global environment.
Expanding the Journey
Life then brought me back to Sydney as a permanent migrant of Australia. Determined to keep growing, I completed my second Master’s degree after returning.
With two master’s degrees and growing international experience, another opportunity came my way — this time in the Middle East, where I spent seven rewarding years working and expanding my professional journey.
Yet no matter where life took me, one place remained close to my heart.
Brisbane – Always Home
For me, Brisbane was always special.
In 2015, I returned to Brisbane and decided it was time to give back to the journey that had shaped my life.
I began mentoring students who were arriving in Australia with dreams similar to the one I once had. What started as a small initiative gradually grew into something meaningful.
Today, through Global Mentoring Academy, we have helped over 1,000 students successfully settle in Australia.
Our academy now has a dedicated group of five mentors, all working together to guide young people who want to explore opportunities beyond their comfort zones.
Helping Others Dream
Our mission is simple.
We help international students who want to make Australia their second home, guiding them through the journey of education, careers, and settling into a new culture.
At the same time, we encourage local Australian students to explore Asia, opening doors to international careers and cross-cultural experiences.
Because growth often happens when we step outside what feels familiar.
A Dream That Continues
When I look back today, it still amazes me.
A 13-year-old boy watching cricket on television in Maharashtra could never have imagined the life that lay ahead — studying in Australia, working across different continents, and eventually helping others pursue the same dream.
But that is the power of dreaming big.
Dreams do not come true overnight. They require courage, persistence, hard work, and the willingness to take the first step even when the path is uncertain.
If you are someone who dreams of building a future abroad, remember this:
Every big journey begins with a small step.
The world is full of opportunities waiting for those brave enough to pursue them.
If you want guidance on studying, working, or building your future in Australia, visit the Global Mentoring Academy website at www.globalmentoringacademy.com and start your journey.
Dream big. Take the leap. Your story is waiting to be written. 🌏✨