27 August 2025
Nikhil Dhawan began his career at Regis Burnside in 2019 as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA), driven by a strong interest in aged care and a willingness to learn. “I initially joined as a PCA eager to contribute and learn,” he recalls. Since then, his role has evolved into a leadership position, reflecting his commitment to growth and the value of person centred care.
Driven by a genuine passion for supporting older adults, Nikhil pursued further studies and became a Registered Nurse in 2021. This milestone marked a turning point, not just in qualifications but in confidence. “A moment that truly made me realise my professional growth was when I had the opportunity to educate new care employees and clinical team members,” he shares. Mentoring others became a reflection of his own development and a way to give back to the community that shaped him.
His promotion to Clinical Care Coordinator was a recognition of his dedication and leadership. “Regis has provided me with incredible support throughout my career progression,” Nikhil says, crediting the organisation’s culture of continuous learning, mentorship and opportunity. In this role, he has embraced the challenges of a fast-paced environment, sharpened his communication and leadership skills while guiding his team to deliver high quality care.
“What keeps me motivated every day is the difference we make as a team,” he says. Whether it’s offering comfort, companionship or simply being present, Nikhil finds purpose in the everyday moments that matter most.
His impact is felt not only by residents but also by their families and colleagues. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact of my work,” he reflects. Watching new team members grow in confidence and skill and knowing he played a role in their journey, reinforces his love for the profession.
For Nikhil, fulfillment comes not from grand gestures but from the words of appreciation from residents, the trust of his managers and the camaraderie of his team. “There isn’t just one moment,” he says. “Rather, it’s the many small gestures and words of appreciation that make me feel truly valued.”
To those considering a career in aged care, Nikhil offers this advice “Never be scared to take on new challenges. Always grab new opportunities when they come your way. Be resilient, as this field can be demanding but also incredibly rewarding.”
