Added: Over a year ago by Leonardo
Each year, Leonardo marks South Asian Heritage Month with events hosted across our UK sites. The month is a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the diverse cultures, histories and contributions of South Asian communities within our organisation.
As part of our celebrations, and in line with this year's theme of 'Free to Be Me', colleagues with South Asian heritage have been sharing their stories with co-workers at lunchtimes.
"I am a third-generation immigrant (or second-generation British-Indian), which means my grandparents immigrated to the UK before my parents were born.
My heritage contributes significantly to my identity. I embrace and balance both British and the two different Indian cultures exhibited in my household in many ways, for example, through cuisine, music and traditions. The journey of my grandparents as they immigrated from the other side of the world and the experiences of my parents while they grew up in London demonstrates their resilience, determination and hard work which, in turn, inspires me to make the most of every opportunity to celebrate them.
I was inspired to lead Leonardo’s South Asian Heritage Month celebrations because it is the perfect opportunity for others to acknowledge our heritage and also for ourselves to feel proud of where we come from, embrace our identity, and honour the stories of our ancestors."
Jainna, Project Management Degree Apprentice
"I was born in a small rural village called Berkheri, in Haryana, North India. My Parents were farmers (after my dad retired from the police) and always encouraged me to be disciplined and educate myself, despite the financial struggles we experienced. I was a star student and loved school, which contributed to me being the highest attainder of my classes in India.
I came to England to study for a degree in Mechanical Engineering MSc; however, the bank withdrew the loan, my parents were not able to support me financially, and I had to drop out after my first term. I worked extremely hard, while supporting my family, and it took me four years to save up for my tuition fee. I enrolled on the course whilst working nights and attending classes during days – resulting in countless sleepless nights. Prior to my final exams, my parents had a road accident and my father did not survive, so I went to India to support my family.
I have worked and learnt from a diverse range of people along the way, although I have inherited my work ethics from my parents. Their hard work, conscientiousness nature and never-giving-up attitude has allowed me to be where I am today. I enjoy giving back and supporting others as a STEM ambassador and a mentor."
Neel, Principal Mechanical Engineer
"My route to becoming an engineer was influenced by my father who always regretted not having the opportunity to progress his passion for mathematics into further education. As an engineer, I think my background has provided me with a natural work ethic, which is very common within migrant families. Within my career, I have been fortunate to work with people from many diverse backgrounds, which has helped to develop common understandings to solve problems on projects, and to develop friendships."
Kulraj, Lead Hardware Specialist
"Growing up, my father instilled in me the importance of education and hard work. He urged me to pursue my studies with dedication, always reminding me of the opportunities that lay before me - opportunities he himself did not have. His journey has been my greatest motivation and I am deeply grateful to my parents for the countless opportunities they have afforded me.
As we celebrate South Asian Heritage Month, I am proud to share my father’s story. It is a time to honour the past, celebrate our achievements, and look forward to a future filled with hope and promise. Let us continue to embrace our heritage, draw strength from our roots, and work towards a brighter future for generations to come."
Nigam, Graduate Project Manager
"I grew up on the outskirts of West London, just under the Heathrow flight paths. In fact, I walked past Heathrow every day to get to secondary school. That part of London, Hounslow, is incredibly multicultural. Growing up, everyone's cultures were celebrated, creating a real sense of community. Our differences made us stronger. My mum would often cook amazing Afghan dumplings (Manto) and rice (Kablee Palow) for our regular community meet-ups.
My parents moved here in 1997 with very little, after the extended conflicts that devastated Afghanistan. Despite not having enrolled in higher education, they created a home for themselves and encouraged their children to pursue education, believing it to be the best opportunity for us.
Currently, I am studying mechanical engineering at the University of Southampton. I am currently on my placement year at Leonardo and hope to return for a graduate role. My heritage has played a vital role in shaping who I am. I deeply value my Afghan culture, which provides a unique outlook on the world. The stories from my relatives on how different life is, and the significant changes they faced moving to a completely new lifestyle, demonstrate their resilience and inspire me to embrace change and tackle hardship head-on."
Sulaiman, Systems Engineer Industrial Placement
