Gaurav Keerthi is a name synonymous with leadership, innovation, and impactful communication. An Indian-born Singaporean, he has worn many hats – from being a helicopter pilot in the Republic of Singapore Air Force to hosting debate shows on national television, authoring influential books, and leading groundbreaking tech initiatives. Gaurav Keerthi’s journey is not just a testament to his versatile talents but also a source of inspiration for those who dare to dream big and make a difference.
Early Life and Education of Gaurav Keerthi: A Global Perspective
Born on April 2, 1979, in India, Gaurav Keerthi’s childhood was a journey across continents. Raised in Nigeria and Germany, he was exposed to diverse cultures and perspectives before moving to Singapore at the age of 10. This multicultural upbringing played a crucial role in shaping his worldview and communication skills.
Gaurav’s academic journey was nothing short of remarkable. He attended St. Andrews Secondary School, Raffles Institution, and Raffles Junior College in Singapore, where his leadership qualities and intellectual curiosity began to shine. His passion for learning earned him the prestigious Singapore Armed Forces Overseas Scholarship, paving the way for his education at Stanford University in the United States. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, laying the foundation for his analytical thinking and strategic vision.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Gaurav furthered his education by completing a Master of Public Administration degree at Harvard Kennedy School in 2014. His academic pursuits were not just about personal achievement but were driven by his desire to contribute meaningfully to society.
A Distinguished Military Career
Gaurav Keerthi’s journey took a disciplined turn when he joined the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) as a helicopter pilot. He served his nation with dedication, eventually rising to the rank of brigadier-general. His leadership skills and innovative mindset led him to become the Chief Innovation Officer, where he spearheaded initiatives that enhanced operational efficiency and strategic planning.
His military career was not merely about ranks and titles. It was about service, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. Gaurav’s time in the RSAF taught him the importance of resilience, teamwork, and strategic foresight – qualities that would later define his success in various other fields.
The Voice of Reason: A Journey in Debate and Media
Gaurav Keerthi’s eloquence and logical reasoning made him a natural fit for the world of debating. In 2008, he became a permanent judge on Season 2 of The Arena, a debate show on Mediacorp Channel 5. His insightful critiques and balanced judgment earned him respect and admiration. He had previously appeared as a guest judge in Season 1 in 2007.
In 2012, he took on the role of host and moderator for Bridging Asia: The Singapore Debates on Channel NewsAsia, where his ability to navigate complex discussions with poise and neutrality shone through. Gaurav’s presence on television was not merely about entertainment; it was about educating viewers on critical thinking and respectful discourse.
His passion for debate extended beyond the screen. He served as the President of Debate Association Singapore from 2006 to 2010, nurturing young minds and fostering a culture of intellectual engagement. In 2011, he published Think, Speak, Win: Discover the Art of Debate, a book that continues to inspire aspiring debaters worldwide.
Championing Civil Discourse: Dialectic.sg
Gaurav Keerthi’s vision of promoting constructive dialogue and critical thinking led him to create dialectic.sg, an online commenting platform that encourages respectful and intelligent discourse. In an era of polarized opinions and echo chambers, dialectic.sg stands out as a beacon of reasoned debate and thoughtful conversation.
The platform covers a wide array of topics, including international relations, justice, culture, and societal issues. By fostering a community that values respectful disagreement and reasoned argument, Gaurav has redefined the way online discussions are conducted, inspiring users to engage with different perspectives.
Innovating for Good: Better.sg
Gaurav’s commitment to societal betterment goes beyond dialogue. In 2019, he co-founded better.sg, a non-profit organization aimed at leveraging technology for social good. As the CEO, Gaurav brings together talents from technical and non-technical backgrounds to build digital tools that address pressing societal challenges.
Under his leadership, better.sg has launched several impactful initiatives, including “To Be You,” an experiential and interactive mobile game designed to foster empathy. His vision of using technology to bridge social divides and promote inclusivity exemplifies his innovative spirit and compassionate leadership.
A Multi-Hyphenate Trailblazer
From military leadership to television, from authoring influential books to pioneering tech for good, Gaurav Keerthi’s journey is a testament to his versatility and relentless pursuit of excellence. His contributions to cybersecurity as the Deputy CEO (Development) of the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore further underscore his commitment to safeguarding digital ecosystems.
In 2021, Gaurav Keerthi was recognized as one of Asia’s Most Influential SG, a well-deserved accolade that celebrates his impact across industries. His illustrious career has not only inspired many but also set new standards of leadership, innovation, and civic responsibility.
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