Why Many Migrants Feel an Urgent Need to Give Back to the Society : 4 Big Reasons You Need to Know

Have you ever felt a deep, unshakable urge to give back to the world around you? A calling to contribute to something larger than yourself?

For many, this is more than just a noble impulse. It’s a way of life shaped by personal experiences, cultural teachings, and an innate desire to create meaningful change. This sense of responsibility to uplift others is especially pronounced among migrant communities. Migrants often face challenges like discrimination, cultural adaptation, and economic instability. These experiences build deep empathy and a strong desire to support others on similar journeys. This phenomenon aligns with the psychological concept of post-traumatic growth—the idea that individuals can transform adversity into personal development and purpose-driven action (Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004).

I’ve seen this in my own life. Over the years, I’ve held senior leadership roles in the Victorian public sector. In these roles, I’ve led strategic project management initiatives that deliver high-impact outcomes for communities across the state. Yet, even as I’ve shaped major reforms and policies, my deepest fulfilment has come from supporting minority and less-advantaged groups—both in Australia and abroad. Whether through coaching migrant professionals, mentoring women of colour, or contributing to philanthropic initiatives overseas, giving back has always been at the core of who I am.

I was born and raised in Fiji to descendants of Indian indentured labourers who were brought to Fiji in the 1870s. My cultural upbringing reflects the Indian values my ancestors passed down through four generations. These values instilled in me the importance of seva (selfless service), humility, and community. And I’m not alone in feeling this way.

Giving Back is Rooted in Our Humanity

Human beings are inherently wired for connection. Neuroscience shows that kindness and altruism trigger the brain’s reward centres—creating a sense of joy known as the “helper’s high.” Research in Nature Communications reveals that generosity boosts brain areas linked to happiness—proving even small acts of giving improve well-being (Moll et al., 2006).

For many of us from collectivist cultures, this desire to support others is amplified. In Fijian and Indian homes, we’re taught that success is collective and hardship is something to be shared—not borne alone. This value system follows us even when we move across borders, often becoming the foundation for community support networks in diaspora communities.

Giving Back Can Come from Pain and Personal Struggles

Sometimes, the strongest drive to give back is born from hardship. I’ve witnessed this up close. Like many families, mine has faced challenges—whether through mental health struggles, financial hardship, or the pain of losing loved ones too soon. These experiences have strengthened my resilience, deepened my empathy, and confirmed the need for compassion and mental health advocacy.

They’ve deepened my commitment to helping those facing similar barriers—especially in migrant communities where stigma and cultural gaps hinder access to support.

Research shows that individuals who experience adversity or trauma often find meaning and growth through helping others. Psychologists refer to this phenomenon as post-traumatic growth which suggests that the most difficult moments in life can inspire us to engage in purposeful action and meaningful service (Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004).

It’s Also About Building a Legacy and Impact

I believe that giving back is also about legacy—leaving behind something more meaningful than personal accolades or material success. This belief has shaped much of my professional and personal journey. While I’ve helped shape policies at the highest levels of government, it’s the grassroots support that I provide—especially supporting migrant integration—that feels most rewarding.

Interestingly, Research by Deloitte shows that purpose-driven individuals are more fulfilled, motivated, and productive (Deloitte Human Capital Trends, 2019). When individuals feel they are contributing to a greater good, it enhances their engagement and mental well-being—further reinforcing why giving back isn’t just “nice to do,” but essential for a meaningful life.

From Personal Fulfillment to Collective Healing

My work through The Resilient Journeys and SDN Connect reflects this philosophy. Whether I’m facilitating workshops to help organizations become more inclusive or coaching women and migrant communities to embrace their worth and leadership potential, the mission is the same: to make sure no one is left behind.

It’s a sentiment echoed globally. For instance, migrant communities, women of colour, and first-generation professionals are increasing their philanthropic giving. This is a form of collective healing. By lifting others, we also heal the parts of ourselves that once felt invisible, unheard, or unsupported.

Final Reflection

So, why do so many of us feel the need to give back?

It is because it connects us to our humanity. Because it heals. Because it builds legacies. And because giving back allows us to transform our pain into purpose, and our privilege into opportunity for others.

And if you’ve ever felt that quiet pull to help someone, to speak up, or to create change—follow it. That instinct might just be your greatest strength.