Chirag Tirathrai
Life has been a cyclical flow of ups and downs until the start of 2023, which is when I started to feel at peace with the constant changes around me. At 25, I have lived in 7 cities located in 6 countries, across 4 continents. To say I’ve travelled the world is an understatement. Along with the wonderful memories, enriching experiences, and fun times, has been the challenge of picking up bags and starting a fresh life every 4 to 5 years. However, they say that these are the moments which shape who you are…
One would imagine coming from a single parent background would cause hardship, difficulties, and leave a void in one’s life. However, I have been blessed with a strong support system of loving family members and loyal friends all around the world, contributing to this sense of comfort and belonging wherever life takes me.
In 2016 I attended university in Boston. My first year was turbulent; having failed or dropped out of most of my courses, leading me to be placed on Academic Probation. I had one semester to rectify the poor results, and guess what it would take? A minimum 3.7 GPA in the following semester, or else I would have been thrown out. I focused, and wanted to prove to myself that I could take on the pressure and challenge, and I did. I got the minimum 3.7 and ended up graduating early through overloading my courses for the next 2 years. This was a massive turning point for me, as I was able to get good work placements in my desired field of Finance, and most crucially I had proven to myself that I could achieve anything I put my mind to.
Fast forward 3 years, I am in the best place I could mentally be. Recently I took a leap of faith to work in Nigeria, for my family’s company which was established almost 40 years ago. This was always a dream and goal of mine because of the history and legacy involved: the growth, risk, and perseverance through challenging times has been an inspiration to me. However, it was never my intention to commit myself to the organization so early in my career; I guess everything happens for a reason. I am happy to be here, and it is certainly my life experiences which have led me to have a positive outlook on this decision.
It is an unconventional move, for a kid who grew up in Japan, Hong Kong, UK, Malaysia, and the US, to come to Africa with a dream to pursue, and a vision to execute. Only time will tell how this chapter goes, but being who I am, I am optimistic.