Making every day count

Five years ago, Minhaj Rizvi joined Monadelphous as a Heavy Lift Project Engineer, eager to take on new challenges and continue building a career in an industry he had grown to love. Since then, he has delivered complex engineering projects, progressed to Senior Heavy Lift Engineer, built lasting friendships and earned the respect of colleagues across the business.

Along the way, however, Minhaj faced a challenge far greater than any project. A life-threatening accident would test his resilience, reshape his perspective and remind him of what matters most.

As we celebrate Minhaj's five-year Monoversary, we're recognising not only his professional achievements, but also the determination, gratitude and optimism that have defined his time with Monadelphous.

Born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan's bustling "City of Lights", Minhaj is the youngest of three brothers and a proud husband and father of two. A lifelong cricket enthusiast, he's also embraced Australian culture since moving to Perth and is now a passionate Fremantle Dockers supporter.

His career in the heavy lift industry began unexpectedly in 2005 when he accepted a role with a heavy lift and haulage company in Saudi Arabia.

"I landed in the industry accidentally, but once I started, I never thought about changing careers. Every day brings a new challenge and finding solutions to those challenges is what keeps me motivated," he said.

That passion for problem-solving has driven Minhaj throughout his career. Since joining Monadelphous in September 2021, he has contributed to major shutdowns, complex tender submissions and innovative renewable energy projects, embracing every opportunity to learn and develop.

His commitment and technical expertise led to a promotion to Senior Heavy Lift Engineer in 2023, while several standout achievements have marked his first five years with the business.

One highlight was his involvement in the first-ever 10-year major inspection of a 600-tonne crawler crane completed in Australia.

"There's never been a dull moment. Every project has brought new challenges, new experiences and opportunities to work with some incredible people," he said.

While his career continued to flourish, Minhaj's greatest test came away from the workplace when he suffered a devastating accident at home, resulting in third-degree burns to 70 per cent of his body.

Minhaj said that what followed was months of surgeries, rehabilitation and recovery.

"The doctors told me I was one of the luckiest people they had treated and that surviving injuries of that severity without major long-term damage was incredibly rare," he said.

"Looking back, the experience was life-changing, but it also made us stronger as a family."

Throughout his recovery, an extraordinary network of family, friends, colleagues and community members rallied around Minhaj and his loved ones, providing support when it was needed most.

"Whether it was emotional, practical or financial support, people were there for us every step of the way. I'll never forget that," he said.

"Life is a beautiful gift, and none of us know how long we have.

"The biggest lesson for me was learning to live in the moment. I've come out the other side stronger, happier and more grateful for every day."

Looking back on the past five years, Minhaj sees the milestone as more than a measure of time.

"It's an opportunity to reflect on what's been achieved, the challenges that have been overcome and the people who have been part of the experience," he said.

"Working for Monadelphous has given me opportunities to learn, grow and build relationships with some amazing people. The support I've received, both professionally and personally, has made a huge difference in my journey."

Minhaj also credits Lorna Rechichi, Rod Stribley, Dave Muirhead and John Derrick for their guidance, support and belief in him throughout his career.

When asked what has kept him going through both his recovery and career, his answer is simple: family, friends, his children and a strong connection to nature.

For anyone facing a difficult period in their own life, he said to accept that you're struggling and don't be afraid to ask for help.

"Talk to people you trust, seek professional support if you need it and stay positive - you don't have to face challenges alone," he said.

As he looks ahead to the next chapter, Minhaj is excited by the prospect of tackling new projects, continuing to learn and growing alongside the business.