Mandi: Abhishek Awasthi from Mandi made history as a Indian to run in the local Government Area (LGA) elections in Australia. He is a candidate for the Kennington Ward in the 2024 City of Greater Bendigo council elections, scheduled for October this year.
Abhishek, a passionate regional advocate, local volunteer, and community leader, competed in the Kennington Ward, which spans from the edge of Bendigo Airport south into Strathdale and parts of Flora Hill. This ward is one of nine new wards introduced in the Bendigo council elections.
Born and raised in Mandi, Abhishek lived in Kennington with his wife and daughter for over 14 years. He actively contributed to numerous organizations, including AFL Victoria, AFL Central Victoria, Cricket Australia, the Victorian Multicultural Commission, the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Rotary, the Bendigo Sustainability Group, the Bendigo Interfaith Council, the Eaglehawk Community House, the Kangaroo Flat Community House, Bendigo Community Health Services, and Bendigo Foodshare.
At the time, Abhishek served as the President of the Indian Association of Bendigo. He was a former President of Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services and the Chair of LEAD Loddon Murray (formerly Community Leadership Loddon Murray).
In an conversation with TNR from Australia, Abhishek expressed his immense pride and responsibility as the first Indian candidate in this election. He stated, “This opportunity represents not just a personal milestone but a momentous occasion for our community and the broader landscape. The weight of being a trailblazer in this arena is both exhilarating and daunting, but it fuels my commitment to bring new perspectives and innovative ideas to the table.”
“I was deeply aware of the expectations and hopes that came with being a pioneer. My candidacy was not just about representing my own vision, but about embodying the aspirations of many who have longed for more inclusive and diverse representation,” he added.
Abhishek extended his gratitude to his parents, brother, wife, daughter, family, friends, supporters, and the people of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, and India for their support and love. He emphasized, “The support and encouragement from my community are sources of tremendous motivation. Their belief in the importance of this moment reinforces my determination to make a positive impact.”
