From Assam to Australia: Dr Aulakh's Journey
In the latest episode of Medical Flyways' miniseries 'More Than Medicine,' we delve into the enthralling life of Dr Satbir Aulakh. Dr Aulakh's journey from Assam, India to the Northern Territory of Australia is a testament to his resilience and passion. Growing up in a family where his father was a doctor, Dr Aulakh always aspired to follow in his footsteps. He began his medical studies in Assam before a stint in the UK. However, the challenges of securing a position in a post-EU UK led him to a surprising opportunity in Mount Gambier, South Australia.
“I thought it was somewhere in the UK,” Dr Aulakh recalls with a laugh, reflecting on the moment he realised Mount Gambier was in Australia. Despite the unexpected colder climate, he embraced the role, gaining invaluable experience and eventually meeting his wife there. His journey continued north to the tropical climate of the Northern Territory, where he has been practising ever since.
Balancing Medicine and Music: A Unique Blend
Dr Aulakh is not just a General Practitioner; he is also a passionate musician. His love for music has always been a part of his life, a passion he pursued more seriously upon moving to Darwin. “Music has always been part of what I did. I realised that I need to do something with music,” he shares.
Balancing a demanding medical career with musical pursuits is no small feat, yet Dr Aulakh has managed to integrate the two seamlessly. He regularly releases original songs and covers, performing at local festivals and events. His music, which often carries the influences of his South Asian heritage, provides a creative outlet that complements his medical profession.
Challenges and Triumphs of a Migrant Doctor
Dr Aulakh's journey as a migrant doctor has not been without its challenges. From navigating the nuances of a new healthcare system to adapting to cultural differences, his resilience has been key. “Australia is very homogenous. It was a good introduction to the country, getting used to the accent, the culture,” he notes.
Despite these challenges, Dr Aulakh has thrived, finding support and camaraderie within his professional community. His story is a testament to the migrant experience, highlighting the determination and adaptability required to succeed in a new country.
The Healing Power of Music
For Dr Aulakh, music is more than just a hobby; it is a form of therapy and self-expression. “I do it because it makes me happy. It’s quite meditative in a way,” he explains. His perspective on the healing power of music is insightful, recognising its role in mental and emotional well-being.
Performing and creating music allows Dr Aulakh to connect with his roots and share his culture with a broader audience. It's a reminder of the importance of maintaining one's passions and interests alongside a demanding career, contributing to a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
Notable Songs and Musical Inspirations
Dr. Aulakh's musical repertoire is as diverse as his journey. Among his notable works, he highlights the song “Bella Bella,” released in 2021, as one of his favourites. The song now has over 2.3 million views on YouTube.“I’ve always liked my song Bella Bella,” he says, reflecting on his creative process.
His collaboration with Radha Teli Khan on the song “Na Jaung” in 2017 stands out as a significant achievement. More recently, his song “Sajna Teriyad,” released in 2022, showcases his evolving musical style. These songs not only highlight his talent but also his ability to blend different musical influences seamlessly.
Advice for Aspiring Migrant Doctors
For other migrant doctors considering a move to Australia, Dr Aulakh offers valuable advice. “Follow your heart. Don’t make too many plans. Just live in the moment. You will find what you want to do,” he advises. He also emphasises the importance of work-life balance, a principle he embodies through his own life.
Dr Aulakh's journey is an inspiring example of how one can successfully navigate the challenges of migration while staying true to one's passions. His story is a celebration of the diverse contributions that migrant doctors bring to the medical profession and beyond.
Tune in to this enlightening episode of Medical Flyways' miniseries 'More Than Medicine' to hear more about Dr Aulakh's incredible journey. Discover how he harmonises his medical career with his love for music, and gain insights into the experiences and wisdom he has to share.
Don't miss this inspiring episode that highlights the diverse contributions of migrant doctors beyond the realm of medicine in Australia.
Sep 27
Sep 21
May 27
