Neharika Gambhir has made history as the first Fijian analog astronaut in the United States, a remarkable accomplishment that has garnered her widespread recognition and admiration from Fijians worldwide. The 26-year-old, who grew up in Suva, was inspired from a young age by her grandparents to dream of a career in aerospace. This dream was nurtured through thoughtful gifts, such as binoculars and books about spacecraft.
Neharika’s journey took a significant turn when she moved to the USA in 2019 to live with her adoptive family, who have been instrumental in her pursuit of success. Currently, she is working toward completing her Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, with an expected graduation next year. Her role as an analog astronaut involves participating in simulations that mimic life in space, reflecting her commitment to preparing for future space missions.
Additionally, Neharika is a cybersecurity engineer, a position she achieved after enduring a rigorous six-month training program. Her dedication to becoming a pilot also supports her goals of dealing with the physical challenges of space travel.
Despite facing challenges, including overcoming gender stereotypes in a predominantly male field, Neharika draws strength from the women in her family. Their resilience inspires her to push boundaries and break barriers, highlighting the importance of representation in STEM fields.
Neharika’s achievements are not only for personal gain; she aims to use her platform to raise awareness about the contributions of Pacific Islanders in science and encourage future generations to pursue STEM careers. She emphasizes that her journey represents a collective milestone for women and minorities in space exploration.
With her sights set on a PhD in Computational Neurology and contributing to research on how vascular malformations affect astronauts, Neharika remains focused on her goals. She carries her Fijian heritage close to her heart, symbolized by a Fiji flag sewn onto her uniform, illustrating her connection to her roots and the values instilled in her.
Neharika’s story serves as an inspiring testament to perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. It exemplifies how with determination, anyone can achieve their aspirations, no matter the obstacles they face.
As she prepares to reward herself with a trip back to Fiji upon reaching her five-year goals, her journey signifies hope and resilience for many, emphasizing the power of dreams grounded in hard work and unwavering dedication.
Leave a comment