Learning, Presenting, and Growing: My journey as a Research Candidate

Source: Paul Maximilian Bisca, 2019

Personally, 18th of November 2025 will remain a memorable milestone in my life. As I prepared to present my Introductory Seminar, I found myself navigating a mix of excitement and nervousness. 

Facing a pool of experienced academics minds like research supervisors, published scholars, and disciplinary experts was both inspiring and nerve-racking for someone still new to the research field.

I'm currently pursuing a Master of Information Sciences under the guidance of two exceptional supervisors.

While research has always fascinated me, stepping into this space now felt both timely and unexpected. In many ways, it arrived at a critical intersection of my life, not purely by choice, but by certain circumstances. Yet, I believe that some opportunities are meant to unfold exactly this way. With each small coincidence leading me here, I've come to embrace this path with genuine curiosity and renewed purpose. I must stand for my passion!

Studying at the University of Canberra has enriched this transition. UC offers a supportive environment, strong academic culture, and excellent facilities. Honestly, an ideal place to learn, unlearn, and relearn. It has reaffirmed my belief that with passion and perseverance, one can build a meaningful academic future from the campus.

The Introductory Seminar itself was an important step in my candidature. As the third presenter of the morning, I delivered my presentation for 21 minutes and 34 seconds. 

The experience was challenging, especially as doubts and “what ifs” filled my mind before I began. But once the presentation ended, a sense of relief and accomplishment settled in, and finally I got both my mind and heart back to normal state. 

The feedback I received was constructive and encouraging. Several suggestions were refining theoretical links, clarifying expected outcomes, strengthening methodological alignment, and reviewing relevant frameworks have all offered clear direction for improvement. 

While completing this stage brought satisfaction, it also reminded me that more demanding tasks lie ahead. 

Research is a continuous learning process that requires great reading, exploration, search, persistence, humility, and intellectual resilience. I look forward to developing these qualities as I would like to pursue my life as a lifelong learner.

For now, this moment marks both progress and possibility. And that is something I am truly proud of.

However, this assurance and little motivation shared by my supervisor for my presentation is in fact world to me. 

No matter what, I'll keep working more and spirit high as ever!

From a Ting Village to a Big Campus

Trying hard to meet different deadlines, this assignments,,,

My Academic Journey at the University of Canberra

Time, in its relentless march, has seen two years pass by in what feels like the blink of an eye, marking the end of my extraordinary academic journey at the University of Canberra (UC). With flying results in hand, I am filled with deep satisfaction, gratitude, and pride as I celebrate the successful completion of this unforgettable chapter.

There are so many people and places I am thankful for, each leaving an indelible mark on my whole experience. To preserve these lifetime memories, I have had jotted down a few random points yet deeply felt, capturing a journey shaped by intellectual growth, cultural adaptation, and profound self-discovery.

 

Journey into the Unknown

Today, as I stand tall on my achievement, I recall the palpable anticipation that ran through me as I first traversed this expansive campus, my senses heightened by the unfamiliarity of it all. There was a quiet race in my heart as I wandered through unfamiliar buildings, my eyes absorbing every space around. Each step felt like a bold dive into the unknown, driven by my hope of academic pursuits.

To be part of this esteemed campus was a privilege I had barely imagined. Australia, once a distant dream, became my reality. The initial weeks were a labyrinth of navigating lecture halls, deciphering the confusing room numbering system (where "06C12" denoted Building 6, Level C, Room 12), and adjusting to the pattern of academic life.

There were some occasions, of course, like the time I innocently attended the wrong tutorial, only to realize mid-session that I was hardly understanding any concepts. Honestly, these moments were not wasted; indeed, they were lessons in adaptability, woven into the frame of my learning journey filled with great innocence.

 

Comforts, Academic Rigor and Opportunities

Amidst the academic rigor, there were peculiar comforts. A particular restroom, for instance, whose mirror inexplicably reflected a more assured look of myself, became a sacred pause, a quiet moment of self-confidence before diving into the day’s lessons. The campus is a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering excellence. Countless hours were spent around the corners of the library, constantly thinking back and forth about many things—assignments, presentations, tests, etc...

The study cubicles around the student help center were where I spent a lot of my time on campus, besides being in the classroom or waiting for the next lecture session to begin. This space provided me time to introspect and get lost in a channel of thoughts.

Perhaps, I always tried so hard to be a good student. However, I regretfully missed my engagement with all kinds of extracurricular activities that the university had offered to every individuals. These missed opportunities linger as gentle reminders of the unique experiences I might have embraced more fully. 

However, what remains indelible is the profound sense of accomplishment. As the first in my family, indeed the first from my village, to walk this costly campus, I carry the weight of this milestone with reverence.

 

Challenges, Sacrifices and Triumphs

To pursue this journey, I made a bold investment of close to AUD $72,000 in tuition alone. On top of that, I paid $655 for an e-parking space over four semesters. It wasn’t easy, but I've no regrets. 

I recall, "there's no free meal in life." 

For two years, I walked the same path wearing the same black pair of shoes, the same pants, the same shirt. The picky Australian weather made jumpers and jackets optional. My seven-year-old laptop, tucked in my bag with a small notebook and pen, served me faithfully. 

I always make a point to carry my own home-cooked meal. It was not just healthy but helped me save a lot of money. With just these essentials, I carried determination more than anything else.

Every cent was spent diligently and with a great sense of purpose. With such a staggering investment, I haven't just gain education; I grew far beyond the classroom walls. I advanced in knowledge, perspective, discipline, and endurance. More importantly, I built great friendships with teaching faculties, staff, classmates and even with strangers, all converging with big dreams on the same campus.

 

A journey beyond a degree

As I step beyond UC gates, I do so not merely as a graduate but as a global citizen, armed with knowledge, resilience, integrity, and discipline. 

This journey was not just a degree earned; it was a life altered, a horizon expanded. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

  

The Power of a Positive Workmate - V

I have had the great privileged of meeting one great soul from an oil-rich country, South Sudan. I shared many fascinating stories with him about endless things. His name id BOL and he has been living in Australia for over a decade now. Over the months, Bol has become more than just a colleague; he is a great friend. Like anyone, we both have many beautiful dreams. 

Through the scorching sun and long days, week after week and month after month, we have shared countless conversations—not just to pass the time but to learn from each other. Our discussions have taken us on a journey through education, healthcare, democracy, government, and even personal experiences. And, of course, we never escaped talking about CORRUPTION!

Bol is one of the most interesting people I have ever met from South Sudan. His humility and kindness are too far to describe.

 

Free Health and Education

"Did you know, Bol, that in my country, both health and education are completely free?" I asked him one day.

"Are you sure, Sancha?" he replied, clearly doubtful. He had never heard of a developing country providing free healthcare and education.

"Yes, I am 100% sure," I assured him.

He was amazed. "That’s incredible! It must take an enormous amount of money to run these systems. I have never seen a government that can afford such things!"

I explained to him that this was all made possible because of our beloved Kings—a commitment to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their background, has access to education and healthcare.

Bol was deeply moved. "That’s the sign of a great nation and a corruption-free government," he said.

I smiled. "We are still a developing country, but we believe that one day, we will succeed just like any other great nation."

"Yes, your country will!" he said confidently.

 

The King of Bhutan

Bol wasn’t sure whether Bhutan still had a monarchy. Curious, he asked me more about it.

I quickly pulled out my phone and showed him pictures of His Majesty the King and the Royal Family.

"Oh wow, your King and Queen are so beautiful!" he exclaimed.

I smiled. "They’re not just beautiful; they’re kind, compassionate, and truly care for their people."

"Your King is really handsome!" he added, and I laughed, agreeing wholeheartedly.

I went on to tell him that His Majesty was educated at the University of Oxford.

"Are you sure?" Bol asked, still surprised.

"Absolutely!" I replied, showing him a video of His Majesty’s speech in English.

Bol was impressed. "He speaks like a native English speaker!"

I nodded proudly. Seeing his admiration, I also showed him more pictures of His Majesty, and Bol was humbled by his presence.

"Sancha, you are lucky to be born in such a country," he said. "With a leader like him, I believe Bhutan will continue to grow and prosper."

I smiled and added, "And we already have a charming Crown Prince who will be our 6th King in the future."

 

Democracy and Government

"Did you know, Bol, that Bhutan is the youngest democracy in the world?" I asked.

"No, I didn’t!" he replied, intrigued.

"Yes, we transitioned to democracy quite differently from other countries. Bhutan is a Democratic Constitutional Monarchy, meaning we still have our King, but we also have an elected government."

Bol was curious. "But why did Bhutan become a democracy?"

I explained, "Unlike other nations where people fight for democracy, our 4th King voluntarily handed over his absolute power to the people. At first, we were shocked because we were happy under our King’s rule. We had no demands—just a simple desire to live happily under His Majesty’s care. But our King insisted that for the country’s long-term success, democracy was necessary."

I told him about March 24, 2008, the historic day when Bhutan held its first democratic elections. Although many people were hesitant at first, we accepted it because we knew it was for the greater good.

"So does your King still have power?" Bol asked.

"Yes, he remains the Head of State and continues to guide and protect our nation," I explained.

Bol listened carefully, impressed by how smoothly Bhutan transitioned into democracy.

Our conversation made me realize just how unique Bhutan’s journey has been. Talking to Bol about my country gave me a renewed sense of appreciation for our leadership, values, and vision for the future.

 

Corruption!

Corruption has a profound impact on a nation's fate—it can by no chance destroy the nationhood. It is not an issue to be overlooked or taken lightly. Transparency must be embedded in all aspects of society, from the smallest actions to the highest levels of governance. History has shown that corruption weakens institutions, erodes trust, and ultimately destabilizes entire nations.

However, some countries have successfully kept corruption at bay, and the contrast is striking. These nations flourish in multiple ways, offering their citizens a stable, peaceful, and well-functioning society. The driving force behind this success is strong, visionary leadership that prioritizes accountability and integrity.

One country that frequently came up in our discussions was Singapore. We reflected on how Lee Kuan Yew led Singapore’s transformation from a struggling nation into a prosperous, first-world economy. His leadership was built on transparency, ensuring that corruption had no place in governance, business, or daily life. His legacy stands as proof that a nation can thrive when great leaders and strong institutions work together.

Real change, however, doesn’t rely solely on governments—it begins with each of us. By making honesty and integrity a part of our daily habits, we can collectively foster a culture of accountability. 

 

The Power of a Positive Workmate - IV

Alex(L), Jonathon (M), Me (R)

"Hello, I'm Sancha, and I've been with the company for the last 15 months."

"Hi, I'm Jonathon," and "I'm Alex."

Though I'm unsure how long they will stay, I'm thrilled to work with these two young gentlemen who bring diverse experiences and perspectives. We often joke that we are three brothers from different mothers.

After our brief introductions, we dove straight into work. I cautioned them about proper posture, particularly bending. As a senior in the job, I shared not only some concerns but also insights into our daily routine, timing, challenges, and the importance of self-care.

By noon, we had already bonded well, sharing our personal journeys and even talking about our love lives.

Interestingly, all three of us attend the same university—University of Canberra (UC). Jonathon is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts, Alex is majoring in Business and IT, and I'm doing postgraduate studies in IT (MITS).

What intrigued me further was when Alex asked if there are any KFC or McDonald's in Bhutan. I paused briefly to ensure I gave an accurate response.

Information I got from Google

Bhutan doesn't have either KFC or McDonald's. However, I believe they will eventually come as we continue to open up to the outside world. I hope that every Bhutanese will get to enjoy not only KFC and McDonald's but also a variety of other exciting foods like burgers and sausages.

To support my point, I mentioned the recent development of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), a dream project of His Majesty The King of Bhutan. I believe this will make Bhutan a hotspot for international visitors, featuring modern infrastructure. This expansion will not only introduce new food options but also bring about positive changes, including shifts in mentality and attitudes towards a modern lifestyle.

Quora (Jeewan Raj), gave me this information on KFC or McDonalds

Intrigued by our earlier conversation, Alex asked another question: what is Bhutan's main food? Without hesitation, I told him it's rice and curry. I went on to explain our national dish, Ema Datshi, a stew of cheese and chili. He found it hard to believe the spiciness of the chili, which we eat as a curry, but I did my best to explain. I also mentioned Bhutan's heavy reliance on a rice-based diet and assured him that the government is working hard to diversify our food habits so future generations have a wider variety of foods to choose from, without being overly dependent on rice and curry.

Our conversation then shifted to the business, public service, and IT sectors.

Alex expressed his deep interest in entering public service, which he sees as a stable and reliable career with steady pay. Having worked in a government job in Bhutan for many years, I shared my experiences of job security. I noted how, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many private and corporate employees lost their jobs or had to survive on reduced pay, while government employees did not face such hardships.

I was particularly impressed with Jonathon's knowledge of history and politics. He seems well-versed in global affairs beyond Australia. With his keen interest in the arts, I believe he would excel in a future career as an anthropologist or archaeologist.I hope he can become an asset to his country and the world, sharing his passion for different cultures and traditions. Even as technology significantly shapes lifestyles and ways of thinking, he can still make a meaningful impact.

These two young men made me wonder why Australians are not only knowledgeable about almost everything related to cars but also well-versed in laws and policies.

Through all the talking, working, and laughing, these boys have imparted a wealth of wisdom that I will carry with me, not just in Australia but also back to Bhutan and beyond.

The Power of a Positive Workmate - III

Mitchell and I

I recently started working with a new colleague named Mitchell. If I had married 17 years ago, he could be like a son to me, but to simplify things, he's more like a student to me because I used to be a school teacher, and I still feel connected to my school and students back home.

Mitchell is a bright young man with high integrity, honesty, and self-discipline. He always greets me with a warm smile, and he speaks with conviction and wisdom, like a well-educated person.

Working with Mitchell is a pleasure. We often engage in deep conversations about our countries, which, despite being oceans apart, share many commonalities. Our discussions keep us so engaged that we hardly notice the cold weather. Mitchell is incredibly knowledgeable about the laws of his country, even though he is still in high school.

We frequently discuss education, culture, relationships, friendships, and family, along with politics, climate, weather, technology, and books. I often asked him about Australia's education system, and he never got frustrated with my curiosity. He always provided well-informed answers, from which I learned a lot.

I shared with him the education system of my country, where education starts from primary school, followed by middle or high school, and then a crucial grade-ten national exam that determines whether students pursue science, commerce, or arts, with different combination of subjects. 

Mitchell explained that in Australia, students have the freedom to choose any combination of subjects in high school, and this flexibility allows them to prepare better for university. He aspires to become a law student and is already studying legal subjects. His knowledge about civil and criminal law, justice, and law reform is impressive for his age.

Working with Mitchell has been a privilege. He is smart, kind, and aware of the world around him. I have learned many life lessons from him about being independent. Perhaps, his awareness of social security and the stock market, and his plans to invest, are particularly impressive for someone of his age.

All I can do was to wish him good luck, and secretly admiring his level of knowledge and goodness. 

The Power of a Positive Workmate - II

"That's strange," Simon remarked. "The cars are ridiculously filthy." I advised him to be careful when bending over to clean the car, reminding him that self-care is crucial to avoid back pain and to maintain our ability to keep working in the yard all week. 

Simon quickly got the hang of cleaning the cars, showing a great sense of humor and a better taste in cars than I had. While I was clueless about a few brands, he seemed an automotive genius.

To pass our time, Simon and I discussed a wide range of topics –politics, wars, sports, culture, weather, and music, sharing our experiences and exchanging some random thoughts and comments. Perhaps, we acted like an expert! 

Technology, AI, education, jobs, and business were frequent subjects as well. We even did not spare our mountains, trees, rivers, landscapes, and wildlife. Discussions about car brands, colors, and smoothness energized us and kept us motivated throughout the day. We were occupied talking about our passions and hobbies, even sharing personal stories, musical tastes, food, wine, bills, saving habits, pensions, society, etc, etc,.

Simon, who has a lot of experience in the hospitality sector, joined me in working outdoors on cold winter days. He brings a bag of experience and maturity in workplace; ethics, professionalism, diligence, and committed to his work, possessing a cool and pleasant personality, he kept me engaged with different perspectives. 

He speaks passionately and enthusiastically about every matter like a true Australian gentleman. Despite his long span in hospitality, he never yearns to return to his first job (reason:unknown!). His knowledge of cars, including caravans, 2-wheel drives, power, and interiors, is exceptional. 

   ... he reignited my passion for nature even more than before...

With a lot of experience in logging, gardening, horticulture, and landscaping, Simon is a very clean and organized person. We also discussed humanity, climate change, fashion, the market, mental health and well-being, and many aspects of our culture and youth. 

A pet lover, Simon has a pet cat, while his mother loves dogs. When I asked him why most people prefer pet dogs, he unfailingly explained at length that "dogs are likely the most obedient and loyal pets, understands feelings, provides good companionship, and encourages daily walks."

We had some brief discussion about life challenges—pain and happiness. We recognize that future challenges will intensify with advancements in technology, AI, IoT, and cyber threats, alongside escalating geopolitical tensions and a decline in humanity. Amid these issues, we stress the need for social cohesion to protect future generations. We also call for strong leadership to guide our nation forward, ensuring the world remains a beautiful and happy place to live.

Despite our different upbringings and cultural backgrounds, Simon and I shared similar values and beliefs regarding nature and humanity. While Simon had his first Bhutanese workmate, I had pearls of wisdom from this gentleman on many topics.

As I called Simon over to give the last car of the day a final wipe, I spoke to him about the beauty of Australia -I whispered in his ear, "your country is amazing."

Age Is The Enemy

Many say age is just a number. Age is calculated by counting the numbers of years, months, and days since birth. Interestingly, if one is born in a leap year, the lucky one gets to celebrate birthday once-in-4-year. 

Recent push to impose the age limit to 35-year by the Australian government is shaking the international students indefinitely, one who will pass this age threshold upon completion of the course –who are currently enrolled in different courses in the colleges and universities across Australia. Of course, the main agenda is clear, but – why not 25 years, 27 years, 30 years, 40 years and so on? Why must it be 35 years?

 

Let me put age factors together as sometimes it can be both a deadly enemy and a worthy opportunity. When we were just born, we were so fragile that we could easily perish soon after birth, because of overwhelming external pressures confronting us. However, despite facing numerous challenges, some of which are daunting and life-threatening, we persevere and transition into subsequent phases of life, only to encounter further hardships. 

 

One of the most controversial, confusing, and complex criminal laws across the world is defining what constitutes rape. In this case, age becomes lethal especially for boys who becomes the victim of so-called rape of someone before the legal age. To be lawfully correct, someone must be above 18 years to engage in a physical relationship with the opposite gender and to start a family. Although different countries have different age limits to start a family, or engage in a relationship, what sadly sometimes turns out bad is for someone who has a physical relationship under guaranteed consent terms that turns out to be a deadly enemy forcing mostly a man to serve prison terms, ruining almost everything including the family and loved life.

 

The next is when someone so capable can’t make it to some important colleges or universities or training or getting a job just because someone is below or above the required age limit. I have my daughter who missed her enrollment in primary school not even one month for the age limit set as 5 years to become fully eligible. She had to wait for another year, by then she will be 11 months older to her mates. However, not so disappointed, but sometimes age becomes a deterrent. 

 

As we slowly progress from infancy to youth, adulthood, and into the full working years, and then eventually into sixties and beyond, we begin to feel the weight of aging. The whole body gradually loses its vitality, with each part experiencing a sharp decline in function and energy which overly becomes burdensome to behold. This process of aging can feel prodigious, as the body’s ecosystems seem to conspire against us. Personally, I believe that old age brings not only immense challenges for myself but also to my family and community. The fact of living a life, the whole journey is considerably present an emotional contrast between the joys of the past and the hardships of the present. 

 

The journey from adolescence through the aging process brings about a host of changes, from the transition beyond sweet sixteen to the onset of graying hair, the advent of wrinkles and age spots, the onset of joint pains and to receding of forehead hair faster than you think. Alongside these physical transformations come challenges like memory loss, hearing impairments, fading eyesight, and the emotional toll of experiencing various losses. What is this life –that gives a lot, also takes away a lot?

“

Life That Gives A Lot, Also Takes Away A Lot

 

To many aspirants and who are already in –Australia who are currently pursuing studies and contributing to economy by labor and tax, paying of bills and upholding the markets dynamics, have put on hold to think a thousand times after having sacrificed so much physically, mentally, and emotionally far from home and families and now with age cap is pushing dream far to dare. It is with an immense and heavy heart –now time to book a return air ticket. For dreams and sacrifices, like a tsunami, many would return home, perhaps futile in the eyes of family, friends, and colleagues. This is hard to believe but age has turned out to be simply a foe of many. 

 

The age limit spanning from birth to death, encompassing both fond memories and miseries, from time to time, age ceiling can be a deadly enemy to worthy chance, indefinitely. And at present, this issue appears to be profoundly hitting the marrow of many different nationals studying in Australia, who possibly exceed the age threshold of 35 years. 

Source: Zapp 

The Power of a Positive Workmate - I

Picture: Rode is with round hat, its a selfie time

Just as my friend had warned me, I ended up in a car wash. It's like a dream come true in a foreign land. 

As simple and easy as it may seem to other, melancholic feeling is within the chest. Over the course of time, I have learned about professionalism and customer care. Essentially, I have learned to organize myself. As I work through the day, this line anchor my heartbeat –"there is no free lunch in life". 

Rodney became my new friend. He added a helping hand. A guy who is so humble and graceful. He bears the utmost coolness of a gentleman's quality. Initially, he seem reserved and firm, but he is all different when he opens up with a conversation. 

After a brief introduction to each other before throwing his hand to work, I warned him of a few essential things -spraying water, wringing chamois, and bending. 

Over the days, we became closer as we shared more about ourselves. I have quizzed him like a journalist to learn a few secrets about how his nation prospered. 

He claims to know a few things about Bhutan from one of his cousins who visited a few years ago. I added a few fancy about Bhutan. 

I told him a few challenges that are hindering Bhutan's development, like being landlocked and difficult topography. To make things easy, I compared states to our districts or regions. It wasn’t so equivalent, but it made sense. 

To keep the conversation running, I purposely asked him few best things to do in Canberra - beaches are not too far away, there is diverse food to try, and many great places to visit, etc, etc,

It was left up to me to do a search and explore. However, he assured, Canberra is the best place for retirement. He feels proud of the healthcare system, good road network, and fast and efficient government services. 

He likes a Holden brand car, which he said used to be quite famous. 

As we progressed with our cleaning, he showed me another Holden car from a different series. Deep inside, I felt sorry for him because he deserved one of them, sincerely. I hope I can help him get one. 

He has ideas about “Alfa Romeo''. Until he pointed to "Fiat," I knew nothing about this brand of car. He told me that being inside a Fiat feels a bit Italian. And I knew it was an Italian car brand. 

As much as he likes Holden, I was a Toyota fan. Like him, I pointed toward the white RAV4 Hybrid and told him of my dream car. He told me to keep dreaming and work hard. 

I told him jokingly, that I so often fall in love with more cars than beautiful ladies. If not for owning one for myself, I at least have a golden chance to touch it, and feel it. It gives a good feeling for the whole day to go around and get lost with the smooth and beautiful cars around the yard.

I was deeply touched when he told me these two things. I was asked to make a saving habit early on life for the unpredictable future and try to get a good academic grade.

We have discussed almost everything under the sun to pass our time. We talked from politics to the health care system to skyrocketing living cost to currency, taxes to pensions, to infrastructure development. However, we did not even spare topics like agriculture, industry, and some recent developments in AI and networks. Perhaps, knowing his unparalleled discipline, I was lost in this thought—How Rich Nations Think. 

He was interested in a few Dzongkha words. As I explained these and a few other tough words, it was time for us to leave for home. 

As I unplugged the hose head, I told him his blueberry picking and his boyhood flirting were interesting. He threw back his quizzical smile and silently vanished from the RAM door. 

And I drove home and got lost in Rode's voice...

Ms. Sarah, the Leader from Another World

 

Good Morning Sarah, 

Thank you for hosting me and sharing with me your lovely afternoon yesterday to discuss many beautiful journeys of yours. It was truly amazing to listen to you. You have opened me up in many ways and I will surely keep all those discussions archived in my diary. 

Thank you once again.

Secondly, I was so happy to meet your esteemed team members, especially Mr. Sonam who shared with me many good things happening in the center. It was a brief but eye-opening session. 

Thank you for the chance.

I have promised you heaven and hope I can prove you right in times to come. Thank you for listening to my side of the education story. 

I felt both of us share many similar dreams and a passion for education. It worth all my afternoon to meet a person of your vision and experience. Thank you for sharing your story, the journey of your education, training, and many more.

I wish I can listen to more of your journey in times to come. 

It would be too early to promise everything, however, I would like to work for you and love to learn many unpacked childhood education journeys from you and the team. 

Kind Regards

Sancha 

Lennock had Lost an Employee, but I Lost a Friend

Image: Sahar Rai

Image: Sahar Rai

Image: Sahar Rai

Image: Sahar Rai

Image: Sahar Rai

In a land where Kangaroos roamed freely, two strangers from the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan found themselves in a dreamland. We met as newcomers to Australia, each feeling like an outsider in a land that was so different from our beloved Bhutan. Little did I know that this chance encounter would evolve into a lasting friendship.

As time passed, Tashi and I went from being strangers to close friends. More than anyone, I've known my friend Tashi for the past 6 months as a cool, handsome man with an amusing nature. Our shared vision for our homeland, Bhutan, brought us together.

We dreamt of a Bhutan where politics would serve the greater good and our tiny kingdom would thrive on ethical and sustainable principles. Our discussions revolved around these ideals, and we felt a sense of urgency to serve our motherland with the utmost sincerity and honesty. 

We deeply promised to take home one, or many ideas and knowledge we observed or gained in a culturally diverse land, or anything worthy to take home for our beloved land would be the future of our land, the added value of the hidden kingdom. We've got miles to go before we sleep in peace, before we fall deep before our bones weaken, and before we promise to build our country into a promising land.

Our backgrounds were intertwined in our conversations, as we both hailed from Bhutanese families with deep connections to the banking and education sectors. Our chats ranged from the intricacies of banking to challenges in the education system. We were both passionate about seeing improvements in critical areas such as health and education.  

Our friendship was as versatile as it was genuine. We seamlessly transitioned from ultra-professional discussions to sharing the tiniest personal details of our lives. We talked about fatherhood, our past relationships—the girlfriend gags—and the ups and downs around Melrose Drive. From cold to scorching heat and shared meals, we used to share unending fantasies for our future.

Amidst our diverse conversations, our unwavering love and respect for our beloved monarchs used to always top our talking list. We shared stories about our monarchs' contributions to Bhutan's progress, and it used to be a source of great pride for both of us to work more sincerely. We were equally proud of our graceful Prince, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, who is growing up under the guidance of two beloved Monarchs, K4 and K5. This shows the depth of knowledge and vision the King must-have for his country.

As close friends often do, we had our moments of jest and boiling. I had a knack for bringing up nonsense topics, from toilet humor to discussions about the flaws in our education system and the frustrating mismanagement that I've observed as a school lopen. I used to tease Tashi about his uncanny ability to bunk and hide from our boss. Often, we used to play a rat game, but only to fall under Benny's trap, our boss!

One thing was clear: the shared longing for our home, our tiny Bhutan, was deeply wrapped under the rim of our hearts. We missed our aging parents and relatives, the simple joys, and the warmth of our homeland. Lennock lost a gentleman, but I've lost a friend who had become a working partner. Our journey in the land of kangaroos had transformed us, and our friendship was a testament to the enduring connection we had to the land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan.

Best wishes for your new journey; perhaps the least traveled, I'm sure you will reap the best out of it and will prove yourself a gentleman, a true Bhutanese by discipline.

*** ALL THE VERY BEST!*** 

"$"

Life of a Car Washer

 Article... coming soon...!

The life of a car washer is a journey that begins before the sun breaks through the icy morning. Each day starts with the promise of hard work and the challenge of battling the elements. From the frosty dawn to the mid-day boiling heat and the windy afternoon, the car washer's life is a relentless dance with the weather.

 

As I step out into the icy morning, the chill seeps into my bones. The first task is to gather my toolssuch as bucket, hose, and shammy. The cars are still wrapped in a blanket of frost, and I shiver as I approach them. The cold water hits my fingers like a thousand pinpricks as I begin to wash the cars, but I press on with determination.

 

By mid-day, the world has transformed into a scorching inferno. The sun beats down relentlessly, turning the cars into ovens. My skin burns from the scalding surfaces as I scrub and rinse, sweat pouring down my face. The wind occasionally provides some relief, but it brings with it a swirling cloud of dust and grit that clings to my wet clothes and stings my eyes.

 

The hours drag on, and my body aches from the constant scrubbing and bending. The car washer's life is not glamorous, but it is a labor of love. Each car I wash is a canvas, and I take pride in making it shine, even in the most unforgiving conditions. It is a battle against the elements and a test of endurance.

 

The afternoon breeze carries with it a sense of relief, but it also brings a reminder of the pain and sorrow that lingers beneath the surface. My thoughts wander back to a time when life was simpler, back in Bhutan, where the mountains whispered stories and the air was filled with the scent of pine. It's painful to think about the contrast between my past and my present, but I persevere, knowing that I must make the best of my current situation.

 

In this line of work, there are simple things to keep in mind – how to spray water on the car, how to use a chamois to dry it, and which car to wash next. But the most important lesson I've learned is to give my work 100 percent of my effort, not just for the company's benefit but for my own sense of pride and accomplishment.

 

Despite the hardships, there are moments of joy in the car washer's life. I get to see a parade of beautiful cars, some of them the dream cars I once watched on television, driven by famous people or sports icons. I may not own these cars, but I am fortunate to wash them, to touch a piece of automotive history, and to take a quiet moment to dream.

 

As the day draws to a close, I stand amidst a row of gleaming cars, their metal surfaces reflecting the setting sun. The pain and sorrow are momentarily forgotten as I take a moment to appreciate the fruits of my labor. The company and I are in a win-win situation. I walk away from the car lot, tired but content, knowing that I've given my all.

 

The life of a car washer is not glamorous, but it is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of happiness, one car at a time.