Guiding stars
There are always those moments in life when you stop and look back, not merely at achievements and your mistakes, but at the constellation of individuals who've shaped you and your path.
This article is my tribute to those guiding stars, those individuals whose wisdom, encouragement, and friendship have been the bedrock of my growth as a teacher, mentor, and a lifelong learner. Each person mentioned here has left a significant mark, and it is through their collective influence that I continue to strive, share, and inspire.
A note of gratitude
These reflections aren't exhaustive, nor could they ever be. I've shared stories or incidents in very minor detail. But every single person here has contributed to my journey to some extent or another and I'm super grateful for that.
Sunita Mestry
The most pivotal person in my life is my mum, Sunita. I often compare her to Gaia, the earth goddess, because of her uncompromising foundation upon which I've built my dreams. Again, like Gaia, she supported and still supports me during my highs and lows and helped shape my character.
Mum and I, September 2022, celebrating my admission into DePaul University.
My mum's always with me, in my moments of doubt, to celebrating my successes (big and small); she has always been present and keeping me grounded. And to this strength, I'm and I'll always be eternally grateful!!
Charlotte Parks
Charlotte, though you're no longer with us, your influence still remains pretty strong in my life. I still remember you encouraging me to question things deeply and to pursue understanding beyond the surface.
Now, it doesn't make any sense to say it all, but your belief in my ability to teach and explain things planted the seed of this very platform, and surprisingly... I still feel like we're chatting.
I know it's weird, and I totally get it. But if you were to be here today, you'd be very proud of me. I know you always wanted me to teach, and now look where I am. Every time I get into my "teaching" mode, I see your spirit reminding me of our last chat...
If you loved me like a man, then live your life like a man. Walk this rock like a man. Keep moving forward through calm and storm, I'll always be with you Akshay, but in a different form.
—Charlotte Parks, 14 Apr 2020
Roll credits, my supporting cast
I believe that life, much like a cinema, is never a solo act, but in the collective effort of those who work behind the scenes.
And so, my life or this journey has always been shaped and tweaked by an extraordinary cast of mentors, friends, coworkers, supporters, and even strangers, each playing an essential role in the stories I share.
Everything you read here, whether it be project ideas or teaching inspiration, is the sum of invaluable contributions from these individuals who stood beside me and eventually nudged me to step beyond my comfort zone.
So, this section is my version of the end credits. A heartfelt tribute to those whose names may not always be in the spotlight, but whose impact resonates in every lesson I pass on. And as with any good film, the credits roll long after the story ends.
Thus, this list will continue to grow, as I'm certain there are more brilliant minds and kind souls yet to cross my path.
Note
The following list is in alphabetical order soley for clarity. Every person holds equal importance and has had a significant influence on my life.
Antonio Tovar
Dr. Tovar, I first met you at National Louis University in 2024, during the NASA Open Science workshop. You were co-leading that cohort and generously offered me the opportunity to intern under your guidance at NASA. You've always been kind, supportive, a father figure, and a teacher ready with valuable advice and encouragement.
Dr. Tovar (left) with my students, Huzaifa Quaid (left-centre), Ishrak Rahman (centre), Orkhan Guliyev (right-centre), and Sezim Mamatova (right) at NASA Open Science 2025 after presentations.
There were a lot of people who helped me on my journey to becoming a teacher, but you were perhaps the most important of them all. I can't thank you enough for all the opportunities you've given me at NLU and for still believing in me, Dr. Tovar.
And for that, I'm deeply grateful!!
Cameron Riddell
Cameron, you've been a true mentor and a source of inspiration in my open science journey from the very start. Though our chats have been entirely virtual, your mentorship has bridged time zones.
I vividly remember how your resourceful teachings offered clarity and encouragement precisely when I needed it most. Your introduction to Edward Tufte's work, has reshaped my approach to presenting and interpreting data. Whenever I see a chart or someone asks me for my "opinion" on how to visualise it, I always think of you and your teachings; often sharing your videos and resources with them.
Cheers for being such a "legend", mate!!
Fatemeh Taghvaei
Fatemeh, our paths crossed thanks to Dr. Tovar while I was still a student at DePaul and you were already teaching at NLU. To me, you're more than a colleague; you're a mentor and perhaps my greatest well-wisher.
Fatemeh attending my graduation ceremony alongside Young, June 2025
I still remember my first day of teaching at the uni, I was extremely nervous. But you were there, walking me through all the things I had to do and reminding me of my responsibilities. Besides Young, you were the only other friend who came to my graduation and celebrated till the end. For that, I'm very grateful.
I know I give you hard time, Fatemeh, but I just have one thing to say... Wowwwwwwww
John Komarnicki
John is the "MC" of Chicago Code and Coffee, a monthly tech-networking event and perhaps the largest one of all in Chicago. I first met you at one of these events (June 2024) during a particularly difficult time in my life.
I was looking for a distraction of sorts, and it turned out to be exactly what I needed: a supportive community that you and your team had fostered with care. As time passed, the community has grown significantly. I became a volunteer, and more people have found opportunities through your work.
Your efforts have created a space where people truly belong. You, my friend, will get no strikes.
Judy Cazares
I first met Judy at ChiPy in 2024, and you were among the first to welcome me. Since then, we've been great friends. Your kindness and support have always been appreciated. I've always valued your willingness to listen and offer thoughtful, grounded advice.
I often find myself reflecting on your words surprisingly more than I've with anyone else. Our playful banter and jokes are a highlight, yet it is amusing how I always end up taking your advice (sooner or later) to heart. I'll always be grateful for your time.
PS. I got a new humidifier.
Madhavi Rege
Madhavi, you've been an incredible mentor and a profound influence in my life. Of all the people I've worked under in my software engineering journey, you were perhaps the most critical and impactful. Looking back, I realised that it was under your leadership that I mastered the art of time and work management.
You nurtured my ability to think critically and execute tasks with attention to detail. These qualities still remain with me today and into every project and professional endeavour.
For all your coaching, I'm deeply grateful.
Sameer Gururaj Mathad
Sameer, our friendship began during my final quarter at DePaul. I often tease you about your disciplined approach, but beneath the banter lies a genuine admiration for your steady commitment to hard work.
What I don't usually say, and perhaps I should more often, is how much I admire your steady, no-bullshit approach to hard work and study. While I often pride myself on being a mentor or a bit of a teacher now and then, there have been moments where I've felt more like a student, learning a lesson or two from you.
And I, for sure, look forward to many more meaningful conversations and moments of learning together.
Shailesh Kewat
Shailesh, you're a true gentleman and, much like Mum, a firm pillar of support. I still remember... our friendship began during challenging phases in our lives. Though the results didn't always reflect our efforts, I gained and scored something far more valuable: a lifelong friend and cherished memories.
You've stood by me through both triumphs and trials, especially after I lost my Charlotte. You encouraged me to return to teaching and ensured I had everything I needed to overcome self-doubt. Your wisdom on public speaking and community engagement gave me the courage to build this platform and the confidence I carry today.
Here's 🍷 to our friendship.
Shilpa Musale
Shilpa, you've been my source of wisdom since my first year at the uni. At times when I felt isolated and overwhelmed, you made me feel safe and welcomed. Our conversations and your stories have been more than memories; they've been life lessons, each filled with quiet wisdom.
You've guided me through career decisions and supported me during difficult times. Your presence was always reassuring, whether through a message or a spontaneous invitation for a walk. I'd never forget that.
I'm genuinely grateful to have found a mentor in you!!
Young Song
Young, our friendship began in my second quarter at the uni, where we both took a class on Discrete Structures. From the outset, your curiosity and support stood out, and I'm truly grateful for the friendship we've built since then.
Young attending and celebrating our graduation ceremony, June 2025
One memory that remains vivid is my graduation day. My mum wasn't able to attend, nor anyone else, and it could've been a lonely milestone. Yet you were there for Sameer and me, arriving early (as usual) and staying through the entire ceremony, from the first moments at seven in the morning until the celebrations ended late in the afternoon. You brought us gifts and, more importantly, your unwavering presence.
In a moment that could've felt empty, you filled it with warmth and celebration; for that, I'm very thankful, Young.