David Nguyen was born on the 14th of July, 1978, in Brisbane, Australia, to parents Minh and Lan Nguyen. Minh, an engineer with a passion for problem-solving, and Lan, a high school teacher devoted to her students, instilled in David a love for both intellectual pursuits and human connection. Growing up in a household that valued education and curiosity, David was encouraged to explore the world around him. His energetic and enthusiastic demeanour was evident from a young age, as he excelled in both academics and sports.

David's sharp, expressive eyes mirrored his engaging approach to life. His athletic build was a testament to his love for outdoor activities, particularly running and hiking. He spent countless weekends exploring the outdoors, developing a deep appreciation for nature and physical fitness. This active lifestyle continued throughout his schooling, where he was a standout athlete in track and field events.

David pursued a degree in Education at the University of Brisbane, where he combined his love for learning with his passion for teaching. His dynamic teaching style, characterised by practical yet fashionable attire that suited his active lifestyle, quickly earned him a reputation as an inspiring and dedicated educator. He believed that learning should be an adventure, and his lessons often took his students beyond the confines of the classroom.

In his professional career, David worked at several prestigious schools across Queensland, earning accolades for his innovative teaching methods and his ability to connect with students. He was particularly known for his outdoor education programmes, which integrated physical activities with academic learning. His students admired him for his boundless energy and enthusiasm, which made every lesson an exciting journey of discovery.

David’s commitment to his profession was matched by his dedication to his family. He married Emily Chen, a fellow educator with a passion for environmental science, and together they had two children, Maisie and Troy. The Nguyen family shared a love for the outdoors, often embarking on camping trips and nature hikes. David and Emily instilled in their children the same values of curiosity, resilience, and a love for the natural world that they cherished.

On the 4th of August, 2018, David accompanied a group of students from Brisbane Grammar School on a trip to D’Aguilar National Park. The excursion was meant to be an enriching experience, blending academic learning with outdoor exploration. However, as the bus neared Downey Park on the return journey, it unexpectedly entered a mysterious portal that transported it to the barren landscape of Clivilius. The sudden transition and subsequent collision with several vehicles resulted in chaos. Despite suffering a compound fracture in his ankle and a dislocated shoulder, David’s first instinct was to help his students. His sharp eyes and quick thinking were instrumental in managing the immediate aftermath of the accident.

Separated from their families and unable to return to Earth, David and the other survivors had to adapt to their new reality in Clivilius. David's energetic and enthusiastic demeanour became a beacon of hope and stability for the group. His experience in outdoor education proved invaluable as they navigated the harsh environment. David organised the children into small groups, teaching them survival skills and ensuring that they remained physically active and mentally engaged.