From Italy to Sri Lanka, from CUHK to the boxing ring, Desidhu's life has transcended multiple identities: student, data scientist, entrepreneur, and now, boxing champion. Guided by his problem-solving mindset, he combined the bravery and discipline he developed in boxing into his daily life to write a story of resilience and transformation.
Born in Italy, Desidhu spent his first eight years there before his family returned to their homeland, Sri Lanka. Enrolled in an international school, he recalls his high school years as a delicate balance between academics and cricket, while the latter dominated most of his leisure time. While studying abroad was common among Sri Lanka's international school students, Hong Kong rarely featured as a destination. "CUHK came to me through a friend's recommendation," he recalled. "The university's global atmosphere and academic resources captivated me. When my father helped me secure a 75% scholarship, that became the key opportunity for me to study in Hong Kong."
Before arrival, Desidhu's impression of Hong Kong stopped at financial hub and skyscrapers. He said, "I was astonished to discover the city's abundant natural beauty, especially CUHK's sprawling, picturesque campus that felt strangely familiar to this island boy. I particularly cherish the elevated views from New Asia College and Yasumoto International Academic Park, framing the view of Ma On Shan. Though Hong Kong's pace is fast, I still return to wander to soak in the views after graduation."
While United College had a higher proportion of local students, Desidhu still forged meaningful friendships, including his closest companion, Arkadii. "We shared countless memorable moments at United College and even became roommates after graduation," he recalled, "though Arkadii has moved to Dubai, our bond remains as strong as ever."
Among Desidhu's most cherished CUHK memories, is the university's emphasis on sports. When speaking of the development of CUHK's cricket team, he gives immense credit to Dr. John Wright. "He taught me not just cricket skills, but more importantly, how sports cultivate leadership," Desidhu reflected. His tenure as team captain taught him valuable lessons in team management and tournament coordination, providing a solid foundation for his entrepreneurial ventures.
Desidhu chose Systems Engineering and Engineering Management not for pure programming, but for its problem-solving focus. "In my first year, I explored diverse fields like mechanical engineering and computer science," he recalled. "But I eventually chose systems engineering for its applied approach, that's where my passion truly lies. Rather than just writing code, I thrive on analyzing problems and crafting solutions."
His academic journey honed resilience and self-management skills. "The curriculum was demanding, included many assignments, quizzes, and exams. You had to be efficient and disciplined," he reflected. "This training taught me how to perform well under pressure and manage various challenges, which is crucial for my career."
During university, Desidhu interned as a data science intern at an insurance company and determined his career path. After graduation, he rejoined the company, first as a junior data scientist before transitioning to a pricing analyst. "My current role aligns perfectly with my passion," he explains. "It doesn't require heavy programming but demands understanding the end-to-end workflows from client interactions to backend systems for designing pricing products."
In 2023, Desidhu founded RealtyWiz Limited, an AI-powered advertising solution for Singapore's real estate professionals. "The 9-to-5 job wasn't for me. I want freedom, in financial, temporal, and location. That's why I started RealtyWiz. Our team of three or four focuses on delivering premium services to a select group of high-end clients." His objective is to annually enhance client services, expand the customer base, and solidify market positioning, making RealtyWiz as Singapore's premier niche service provider.
Boxing became Desidhu's passion at 21 through a chance encounter. "My first training session left me awestruck. I had no experience and was blown away by my coach's technique, which made me fall in love with the sport immediately," he recalled. In November 2024, he won the men's 63.5kg division championship at "Ultimate Extreme Fight - Hong Kong". "Winning the championship made me deeply grateful. My mother always believed in me, even more than I believed in myself. This win demonstrated that I had the potential and mindset to become a champion." To Desidhu, both boxing and entrepreneurship require laser focus, discipline, and optimism. He mentioned, "That's why I'm drawn to both worlds. They forge resilience through challenge while keeping me humble and hungry."
Arriving in Hong Kong in 2018, Desidhu will soon receive Hong Kong permanent residency and stirs profound reflection. "At 23, I've spent nearly equal parts of my life in Italy, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong," he shares. "Yet it's here I've planted my deepest roots. The connections I've forged and the sense of belonging I feel make this city truly home. Though I was born in Sri Lanka, my coach is from Hong Kong. When I compete, I feel like I'm representing this city. Hong Kong is where I've grown, been supported, and I will keep building my future in both career and sport."
Published on CU Alumni Magazine Issue 122 by Alumni Affairs Office 2025
Read online: CU Alumni Magazine Issue 122 (Chinese Version Only)
PDF: http://www.alumni.cuhk.edu.hk/magazine/202506/pdf/CUAM_202506.pdf
ISSUU: http://www.alumni.cuhk.edu.hk/magazine/issuu/