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How Karthick, a software architect at Cognizant, finds purpose in serving people

a person standing in front of a fire truck

In a city where the weather moves like clockwork, Karthick Thanigaimani begins his day in true Melbourne fashion—checking his calendar with a sip of coffee. But things change within a moment when an incident alert arrives. And Karthick, the software architect becomes a first responder. What happens then? Let’s hear it from him.

When an incident happens

I’m usually at work when an alert arrives. It could be a bushfire, a domestic fire, an accident or any other disaster—you can't predict it. 

In that moment, my role changes. I need to act swiftly and my team at Cognizant understands this and fully supports me. After a heads-up to my manager, I join my fellow volunteers from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) or the State Emergency Services (SES), and we rush to the incident site.

“When you choose to serve people, you don’t wait for perfect conditions. You simply show up, because someone’s worst day can’t wait.”

Karthick Thanigaimani

An emotional rollercoaster

No two incidents are the same. Some bring a rush, some bring doubt, and some stay with you long after they’re over. But then come the moments that remind you why you chose to volunteer in the first place—the gratitude of people we help, a look in their eyes when they realize they’re safe and the brotherhood among our volunteers during an incident.  

I’ll never forget the day we pulled an elderly couple from a bushfire in Victoria. Or the time we helped save three lives after a serious car crash. Crossing that street fills me with pride to this day.  

A decade on the frontline

a person in a uniform
In my uniform

It all started when I moved to Australia. I wanted to give back to the community that welcomed me, and that’s when I came across emergency services. I started with small administrative roles at the CFA and then stepped into the role of a firefighter. Today, I proudly lead a team, serving as a Lieutenant.

My volunteer experiences have taught me a lot about teamwork, trust, empathy and stepping up in tough scenarios. When I return to Cognizant, I bring these experiences and skills to my role—whether it’s guiding my team, solving platform issues or supporting our clients. 

Serving others runs in our family

a group of people holding cans
With my family at a community event

Serving our community is ingrained in my family. My wife is part of the CFA as well and our kids also join her in non-operational activities whenever they can. They understand my passion for helping others and their support motivates me. They also let me sneak out sometimes to play cricket or badminton.

My message for you 

Over the years, I’ve learned that there’s always someone who needs help. You don’t need a uniform or special skills to lend a hand, and no help is too small—even an hour a month can make an impact.  

If you're looking to give back, I’d say get involved in your community and start making a difference. 

Want to join a team that welcomes big ideas and makes a positive impact on the world? Cognizant is the place for you. Learn how we’re making a difference in communities worldwide.

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