At 30, Nikhil is cancer-free and dedicated to developing 'more affordable' medical devices

Having overcome serious health challenges, Nikhil Autar now leads an organisation that develops cost-effective products to help people with disabilities. Recently he was named the 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year.

Nikhil Autar, 30, is a medical student, ex-cancer patient and founder of Bheem Health. Credit: Supplied/Nikhil Autar

Key Points

• Nikhil Autar recently received the NSW Young Australian of the Year award.
• The ex-cancer patient today leads an organisation that develops cost-effective medical devices and accessibility tools.
• 'Those with disabilities often experience helplessness,' he says.

When he was 17, Mr Autar learned that his chances of survival were slim following a diagnosis of leukaemia.

He endured a rigorous regimen of treatments, encompassing chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants and open-heart surgery.

Today, Mr Autar is cancer-free and drawing on his experiences to develop affordable medical equipment and accessibility tools for others dealing with health challenges.

The 30-year-old received the 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year award at a ceremony this month at Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art.

Nikhil Autar with his NSW Young Australian of the Year Award. Credit: Supplied by Nikhil Autar

This recognition is a testament to Mr Autar's contributions to social enterprises and charitable initiatives.

This award inspires and motivates me. Many people are engaged in remarkable endeavours that often go unnoticed. Awards like these serve as a means to showcase their contributions to the world.

Nikhil Autar

'Something more meaningful'

Upon being diagnosed with a life-threatening disease, Mr Autar was given only a few years to live. Doctors advised him to organise his affairs.

Nikhil Autar is a medical student and a member of Australian Medical Students' Association. Credit: Supplied by Nikhil Autar

"I felt devastated, frustrated and I was so sad. Courage, strength and bravery seemed entirely elusive in that situation," he said.

However, one day, I made a conscious decision not to give in and instead chose an alternative approach. I thought about how I would support someone facing a similar challenge, took a step back, and redirected my efforts towards something more meaningful in my life.

Nikhil Autar

"I gradually realised that I could navigate and control the thoughts and emotions I went through during that period. Although it required time and effort to develop this into a habit," he explained.

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Nikhil Autar is many things

In 2019, Mr Autar started Bheem Health, a venture focused on developing cost-effective medical devices.

Additionally, he is associated with the charity organisation Doctors Against Violence, a coalition of doctors dealing with the issue of domestic violence.

Nikhil Autar Credit: Analia Paino analiaphotography.c/Supplied by Nikhil Autar

Beyond his professional endeavours, Mr Autar is also an avid blogger, a writer and a motivational speaker.

"Fortunately, I managed to enrol in medical school in 2012. However, due to my health condition, there have been setbacks in progressing through my coursework," Mr Autar, a student at the Western Sydney University, said.

A recipient of the Chancellor’s Unsung Heroes Award 2022 from his university, he embarked on a mission to help others following the loss of two friends due to falls.

I've encountered a couple of instances where I fell due to my health condition, and I've also faced challenges with pressure sores. However, it's important to note that these issues can be avoided.

Nikhil Autar

Teaming up with engineers, he developed a cost-effective 'hospital bed alternative' and an innovative sensor mat that helps minimise pressure sores to keep people safer at home or in nursing homes for longer.

He is presently working on an application called 'KNIA Maps' (Know In Advance Maps), which aims to provide information about accessibility at hospitals, universities, public places, transportation hubs, small businesses and other locations.

Nikhil Autar along with other recipients of the Australian of the Year awards in NSW. Credit: Supplied by Nikhil Autar

"It can be quite challenging to locate parking, find a conveniently accessible restroom nearby, or navigate through hospital doors while dealing with various health issues," he said.

"I have personally encountered these challenges, and I recall a moment during my hospital walk after undergoing heart surgery when I genuinely thought my life was at risk.

"Our goal is to chart the entire Australia for individuals, as those with disabilities often experience helplessness."

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Mr Autar will now stand alongside 131 other recipients from different states and territories as a national finalist in the Australian of the Year awards to be announced on January 25, 2024, in Canberra.

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