Tourism and Hospitality Flying Kenya’s flag high in Australia varsities and cricket pitch

By Kiundu Waweru

It was Nimesh Modi’s proudest moment as he graduated at the top of his class with a master of Management in Marketing from CQ University, Brisbane.

As a result of this outstanding performance and leadership, Nimesh was awarded with the coveted Campus Director’s Award and a commendation award from the dean. He graduated with a with a GPA of 6.75 of 7.

"The prestigious director’s award is not only given to students who excel academically but also to those who contribute towards influencing the lives of others positively. It is given on merit on the recommendation by university staff," says Nimesh.

Nimesh traces his leadership skills to Oshwal Junior High School, where he was awarded with the Best Student Improvement Award.

He attended Oshwal College andholds a Bachelors degree in Management, Tourism and Hospitality from the University of South Australia.

Gold Key

"Here, I was among a select few to appear in the Deans merit list for outstanding academic achievement and as a result was invited to become a member of Golden Key Honours Society," he says.

For Post Graduate Education, Nimesh went to Griffith University to study International Business, and at CQ University where he graduated with a Graduate Diploma of Management.

Coming from a cricketing community, Nimesh has represented Kenya in under 19 youth World Cup in South Africa and also in Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association. "Growing up, I knew that I was destined for greater achievements, but getting awarded with the Director’s award made me realise that the greatest achievement must be in influencing others."

So with this impressive resume, what motivates him? "My family. Without their support, this achievement would not have been possible and I say Asante Sana."

Nimesh says receiving the award in the company of his parents, Mr Subhash Modi and Mrs Aruna Modi, meant the world to him. "The award came as surprise to me. I could finally see the rewards of my hard work simply by glancing at my Parent’s joyous faces who constantly shouted ‘Kenya Juu!’ from the crowds."

He says the win is not only his and his family’s but Kenya’s. He believes that when a person from Kenyan decent does something to be proud of abroad respects goes to the homeland.

He works with Australia’s largest food retailer, Retail Food Group as a Business Development Manager.