Journey Of Raghav Motani

Welcome To My Journey

This website is a special place for me. It’s where I’m putting all the things I’ve learned and lived through since I left home and came to Australia — as an international student, a volunteer, and now as someone working.

To be honest, the journey hasn’t always been easy. There were days I felt lost, days I almost gave up. But slowly, step by step, things started to change. I met amazing people, learned new things, and found the strength to keep going. And somewhere along the way, I started to find myself.

I’m sharing my journey here — not because it’s perfect, but because it’s real. And if reading even a small part of it helps you feel encouraged or hopeful, then that means everything to me.

Study NSW international student awards, Raghav Motani, Journey of Raghav Motani, Sydney, Australia
Learning Leadership Change
Learning Leadership Change

Something I call "The YES Effect"

A small "yes" can change everything — it did for me

International Students Officer

I never planned for it, but saying yes to one opportunity led me to represent hundreds of students and be part of something bigger.

Why I Said “No”

Sometimes saying no is just as powerful. I chose what felt right for me at that time — and it taught me a lot about trusting my path.

My First Job

It all started with a small yes — one decision that opened the door to my first real work experience in Australia.

Volunteering

An Act Of Selfless Service

Volunteering has been one of the biggest sources of support throughout my journey. It gave me a space to disconnect from the digital world and simply be present. Spending time with the community opened many doors for me, but I never went into volunteering expecting anything in return—it’s meant to be an act of selfless service.

Volunteering doesn’t always mean working with an organisation. Even something as small as staying back after an event to help pack up counts, and it can make a big difference to someone else. For me, volunteering became a way to calm down and relax from the stress of daily life.

Kiama Trip, International students, Sydney, Australia

Chillzone

Between classes, work shifts, and way too much screen time, it’s easy to forget to just... chill.

Random Trips

Because the best plans are sometimes made 10 minutes before the train leaves.

Meet New People

I promise it’s less awkward than your first group assignment.

Fresh Air

Scientifically proven to fix 72% of bad moods (well... probably).

Mini Adventures

Think adventures, but bite-sized and way more snack breaks.

Notes to Self

Little reminders, lessons, and honest thoughts — from me, to me (and maybe for you too).

This is where I share things I’ve learned along the way — as a student, as a newcomer, and just as someone figuring stuff out one step at a time.

It’s not a typical blog. It’s more like a personal guide I wish I had when I started. Real stories, useful tips, and moments that helped me grow — written like I’m talking to my past self.

Latest Addition to Notes to self

Right To Housing

The Journey of Raghav Motani stands for safe, secure housing for all international students. We’re here to learn and grow — not to carry the weight of a housing crisis. Our rights deserve respect.

The Guardian Australia, International Student, Raghav motani
The Guardian Australia
The Sydney Morning Herald, International student, Housing crises
The Sydney Morning Herald

International Students

The Record Canada, International student, Raghav Motani
The Record Canada

International students deserve to have their rights protected—no one should ever take advantage of someone, especially when it comes to basic needs like having a safe place to live. These rights matter, and it’s important we stand up for each other and make sure no one is left behind.

..
Scroll to Top