To say Akshad Amit Shelar has made the most of his time at La Trobe is an understatement. After arriving in Australia in February 2024, the Bachelor of Information Technology student joined the La Trobe Leaders Program and soon became a valued mentor to new students.
“In this role, I guided peers through their transition to university life, fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus culture,” he says.
Not long afterward, Akshad began working as a Residential Leader and served on the Orientation and Transition Committee, helping to shape the University’s welcome experience for new students. More recently, he was appointed Student Representative for the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences.
Akshad, who is majoring in data science, says he chose IT because of an innate interest in the power of technology to shape the world around us.
“Growing up, I was curious about the latest digital innovations, whether it was through YouTube videos, tech news, or podcasts, I loved staying updated with emerging trends.”
“Throughout my studies, this curiosity has evolved into a passion for creating digital solutions to everyday problems. I have been able to build on this by learning from knowledgeable and supportive lecturers. I see this degree as the ideal pathway to break into the IT industry, where I hope to make a meaningful impact.”
At the start of 2025, Akshad co-founded Enactus La Trobe, a chapter of the global Enactus network dedicated to student-led social innovation aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The club was recently awarded $6,000 in funding, were named national finalists, and achieved 2nd place in the Enactus Australian National Championship.
“As Co-President, I’ve led partnerships with Ernst & Young, CA ANZ and university departments, supporting initiatives like ASEI Uganda, which promotes STEM education through school-based cultural exchanges, and Melbourne Companions, which tackles social isolation by connecting international students and elderly residents.”
After graduating, Akshad hopes to build a career based on data science, data analytics, and leveraging the power of artificial intelligence to drive meaningful innovation. “I see myself either joining an established company or exploring entrepreneurial opportunities such as launching a tech startup, where I can apply the diverse skills I have developed at La Trobe,” he says.
“My ultimate goal is to lead a company that not only thrives commercially but also creates significant social impact by solving real-world problems and supporting communities.”
“I am equally committed to volunteering my time towards community projects. Success for me goes beyond job titles or financial rewards, it’s about using technology as a force for good and leaving a positive legacy through both business and social innovation.”
