Harmohan Walia

Biography

✨ Harmohan Walia Biography: Community Leader and Activist

Harmohan Singh Walia, affectionately known as Harry Walia, is a respected community leader, activist, and retired mechanical engineer whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the Indian diaspora in Australia. With a career spanning continents and a life devoted to service, Walia exemplifies dedication, resilience, and cultural pride.

Born and raised in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, India, Walia pursued his academic journey with distinction. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College, Ludhiana, under Punjab University in 1973. He later completed a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Thapar University, Patiala, in 1987. His professional career in India included 15 years as a Quality Manager at Escorts Limited’s Automotive Division in Patiala, followed by a tenure as Deputy General Manager of Production at Jamna Auto Industries (JAI Springs) in Yamuna Nagar.

In February 1991, Walia migrated to Sydney, Australia, with his family, embarking on a new chapter filled with both professional and community pursuits. In Australia, he worked across a diverse range of industries—including electronics, electrical, chemical, automotive, defence, IT, and printing—before retiring. His adaptability and technical expertise allowed him to contribute meaningfully in each sector.

Walia’s community engagement blossomed in Australia. He gained national recognition as a Torchbearer during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, a symbolic role that underscored his commitment to unity, multiculturalism, and the spirit of inclusion. His passion for civic engagement led him to join the Australian Labor Party (ALP), where he broke new ground as the first Indian to contest a federal election in Australia, running for the seat of Mitchell (NSW) in 2004. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the prestigious McKell Award in 2017.

His media involvement began in 1993 when he served as a newsreader for a Punjabi radio program on 98.5 FM, delivering news from sydney nearly a decade. He later joined SBS Punjabi Radio in Sydney as a broadcaster from 2003 until 2004, stepping down to focus on his federal election campaign. His voice became a familiar and trusted presence in the community, bridging cultures and keeping the diaspora informed.

Walia has also been deeply involved in religious and community service. He served as Secretary at Austral Gurdwara for five years and as General Secretary at Glenwood Gurdwara (ASA) for three years during the 1990s and 2000s. Known for his willingness to assist others, he has helped countless community members navigate legal and civic challenges with compassion and integrity.

A founding member of the Sydney chapter of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) in 2008, Walia is also a Life Member of GOPIO International. His leadership within the organization has been significant—he served four terms as Chair of the GOPIO International Bylaws Committee and was recently elected as the International Coordinator for Oceania in February 2023, a testament to his global vision and commitment to the Indian diaspora.

In recent years, Walia has continued his service through voluntary work. For over 15 years, he has been a dedicated community photographer, capturing cultural events across ethnic communities at his own expense. His goal is simple yet profound: to bring smiles to people’s faces and celebrate cultural heritage through visual storytelling. He also serves as the NSW Editor for Desi Australia magazine, contributing to the visibility and voice of South Asian communities in mainstream and ethnic media.

Harmohan Walia’s life is a remarkable blend of professional excellence, civic leadership, and heartfelt service. His journey from Punjab to Sydney reflects not only personal success but also a deep commitment to uplifting others and fostering unity across cultures.