'My Indian roots nourish my drive to serve humanity': Dr Sonu Bhaskar wins top Asian Australian Leadership Award

Dr Sonu Bhaskar has been named the overall winner of the Asian Australian Leadership Awards, recognised for his global contributions to neuroscience and health equity. A migrant researcher who speaks nine languages, Dr Bhaskar reflects on his journey across continents as a migrant, his pioneering work in stroke treatment and emerging research in Parkinson’s disease. He says his connection to his roots and the values passed down by his grandfather fuel his drive to serve humanity through science.

Neurobiologist Dr Sonu Bhaskar (centre) was named the Overall Winner at the Asian Australian Leadership Awards 2025. Credit: VioletaStoimenova/Getty Images

Here's a small gallery from his award ceremony:

Dr Sonu Bhaskar delivering his acceptance speech at the Asian Australian Leadership Awards. Credit: Supplied by Dr Sonu Bhaskar

Dr Sonu Bhaskar as a child (left) with his grandfather (right). Dr Bhaskar says his worldview, his deep connection with the Indian culture, and his drive to work for the larger good has been shaped by his grandfather's influence during his childhood. Credit: Supplied by Dr Sonu Bhaskar

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