Three energetic Fijian social media influencers have been chosen to represent their country at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Odisha, India. The High Commission of India in Suva conducted a pre-departure briefing for the selected influencers: Shania Singh, Shaheel Shermont Flair, and Ashwani Vasist Deo.
Shania Singh, known for her past as a television personality, has made a name for herself as a prominent content creator. Shaheel Shermont Flair boasts a significant following on TikTok, where his videos have garnered attention from top celebrities, including some from Bollywood. Meanwhile, Ashwani has also gained popularity through his engaging TikTok content.
These influencers are eagerly preparing to delve into India’s rich heritage, culture, and stunning landscapes during the convention scheduled for January 8-10 in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), celebrated annually on January 9 since 2003, honors the contributions of the overseas Indian community to India’s progress. The date was specifically chosen to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa in 1915, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s freedom struggle.
Since 2015, PBD has undergone a format change, occurring biennially and featuring themed conferences in between. These events provide a vital platform for the global Indian diaspora to connect with the Indian government and society, fostering mutually advantageous collaborations. Furthermore, these conventions promote networking among overseas Indians from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to share valuable insights and experiences across various sectors.
This opportunity for the Fijian influencers not only highlights their creative talents but also emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange and community building among the Indian diaspora. Their participation in this significant event showcases how social media can serve as a bridge for connecting cultures and fostering worldwide relationships.
The involvement of influencers at such a prestigious convention underlines a hopeful future for cultural diplomacy, as they can share their experiences and learnings with their followers upon their return, potentially inspiring more collaborations and awareness of the Indian community worldwide.
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