Neharika Gambhir has made headlines as the first Fijian analog astronaut in America, an accomplishment she views as both a tremendous honor and a humbling achievement. The 26-year-old, who was raised by her grandparents in Suva, reflected on this milestone and the childhood dreams that have propelled her journey. She expressed her gratitude for the support of her family, especially after moving to the United States in 2019 to join her aunt and uncle, who adopted her.
Her fascination with aerospace began in childhood when her grandparents gifted her binoculars and books about spacecraft, nurturing her ambition. Now studying for her Bachelor’s in Computer Science, which she will complete next year, Neharika has also established herself as a cybersecurity engineer after rigorous training. As part of her preparation to become an analog astronaut, she is training to be a pilot, which equips her with the necessary skills to face the physical challenges associated with commercial space travel.
Neharika’s determination extends beyond her personal achievements; she seeks to raise awareness about the role of Pacific Islanders in STEM fields and encourage future generations to aspire toward space exploration. Despite facing challenges related to stereotypes and gender biases in her field, she draws inspiration from the strong women in her family, highlighting their resilience and influence on her journey.
She emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical and mental health during isolation periods in analog missions, as well as the potential long-term effects of space travel. In facing challenges, Neharika utilizes goal-setting strategies and task management tools to stay organized and accountable.
Looking ahead, her aspirations include completing her Bachelor’s, pursuing a Ph.D. in Computational Neurology, and embarking on astronaut training with the dream of participating in commercial spaceflight. A proud representative of her Fijian heritage, Neharika embodies values of community, resilience, and environmental respect, all of which guide her personal and professional life.
Neharika’s story is a source of inspiration for aspiring young women, encouraging them to pursue their dreams relentlessly, regardless of obstacles. She hopes to return to Fiji for a well-deserved holiday once she achieves her goals in the next five years. Her journey exemplifies the extraordinary possibilities when one dares to dream big and continually strives to turn the impossible into reality.
This narrative not only highlights her personal achievements but also serves to showcase the potential within Pacific Islander communities, showing that with hard work and determination, remarkable milestones can be reached.
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