My Story
My Story: From Immigrant Dream to Inspired Impact
From Malaysia to the Midwest – A Leap of Courage
I’m a first-generation immigrant, born in Malaysia, the youngest of six in a loving, close-knit family. My parents and older siblings were my earliest role models, showing me that humility, hard work, and community could carry you far. We weren’t wealthy, but our home was rich in values and purpose.
In 1985, I boarded a plane to the U.S. with nothing but two suitcases, a student visa, and a dream. I was 22, had no family in America, and landed at Illinois State University (Go Redbirds) to pursue a degree in Computer Science. Everything was new: the language, the culture, the food, the icy Midwest winters. But I was determined. I became the first in my family to graduate from university. That moment changed everything.
Building a Life in Chicago – Family, Career, and Growth
After graduation, I launched my career as a software engineer in the suburbs of Chicago. Three years into my career, I landed my first managerial role. I believed success was all about hitting the numbers, and I did. I exceeded all the KPIs and delivered strong results. But then I received my first 360-degree feedback report, and it was brutal. That was the moment I realized the collateral damage I had left in my wake. It stopped me in my tracks.
A Turning Point – Awakening the Leader Within
Despite the outward success, I realized I was missing the most essential ingredient of leadership: the human element. I had been managing projects, not people.
That feedback became my catalyst. I immersed myself in understanding people and explored various disciplines including emotional intelligence, coaching, communication, building trust. I studied what makes teams thrive and what makes leaders unforgettable.
Eventually, I rose to the executive ranks, embracing a “Servant Leadership” philosophy that put people and purpose before ego.
The Relentless Student – Becoming Dr. Ravi Rajaratnam
Family & Purpose – My True North
I’ve been blessed to share this journey with my wife since 1988. Together, we raised three incredible children, each forging their own path, driven by values and purpose.
Since 2006, San Diego has been our home. It’s not just paradise because of the weather, it’s a place that grounds me, inspires reflection, and reminds me daily of what truly matters.
Book Reviews
My Book: Hardwiring vs. Rewiring
What started as an idea to write children’s books evolved into something much deeper. My book, Hardwiring vs. Rewiring, explores the science and psychology of early childhood development, and its powerful link to the 21st-century skills needed in today’s world.
With over 30 years of mentoring and coaching leaders and shaping organizational cultures, I saw the same patterns: people are either wired for success or fighting their wiring. This book reveals how we can change that.
Book Reviews
My Why: Awaken Greatness from Within
My father passed away when I was just 20. It shattered me. But it also cracked me open to spirituality, to meaning, to service. I realized life is precious, and my purpose became clear:To make a meaningful difference in every life I touch.
Whether it’s feeding the homeless, advancing youth education in rural communities around the world, mentoring students, supporting veterans, or coaching CEOs, I lead with one core belief: true leadership begins with service.
Breakthrough Awakened – Where Transformation Begins
Today, I’m the founder and CEO of Breakthrough Awakened, a boutique executive and leadership coaching firm with a global team of coaches committed to transforming organizations from the inside out.
We don’t offer surface-level fixes. We help leaders uncover the mindset and behavior patterns driving their results. Then we guide them in rewiring how they lead, communicate, and impact others.
Because lasting leadership transformation doesn’t come from titles. It comes from doing the inner work.
Our motto? Sharpen Your Mindset. Sharpen Your Edge. Because the most extraordinary leaders don’t react – they reflect. They don’t control – they connect. They don’t play small – they ignite possibility.
Let’s Connect
If you’re ready to lead with more intention, clarity, and courage, and if you believe leadership should elevate others, I’d be honored to walk beside you on that journey. Let’s awaken your breakthrough.
