The Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards (IBA) have become a highlight of the ‘Auckland Year’ for me since they were first launched in 2008.
The Awards are unique, of course, in the sense that they represent the Indian community, recognising the best achievements of its own.
But possibly even more important than that, the Awards Ceremony, held to coincide each year with the Anniversary date of Indian Newslink, allows the wider New Zealand community to gain an insight into just how much the Indian community contributes to the national economy.
Before paying tribute to this year’s winners and nominees, it is fitting first to pay tribute to Indian Newslink, and to wish the newspaper and its staff a happy 12th Anniversary.
Warm congratulations especially to Ravin Lal and Venkat Raman, respectively Managing Director & Publisher and Editor.
They show continuing dedication and in enthusiasm backing the Indian community and its businesses. They are committed to making the Awards Night more impressive each year.
Congratulations as well to all winners, finalists and entrants to this year’s Awards.
I believe that the Indian community has no equal for hard work and business skills and acumen.
Despite global economic difficulties, many Indian businesses have continued to make progress and go from strength to strength. This is a tribute to the determination and ability of those who manage them.
Young achievers
I see the achievements of the Indian community wherever I move around my Mt Roskill electorate. It starts with the young.
When I visit local schools and attend their annual prize giving ceremonies, I see Indian students doing well, and looking forward to continuing to advance their skills by moving on to tertiary studies.
These young people will become the Indian business and community leaders of the future, so I am confident that the influence of the Indian business sector will continue to grow.
The inspiration provided by the Indian business community, the Indian media and young people only tells part of the story, however.
Over the past few weeks, I have attended many Diwali festivals.
Given the numbers attending, it seems almost every member of the Indian community turned out at these events. That is the real strength of the Indian community, supporting and embracing its culture and heritage.
Strong Media
The role of the Indian news media in promoting this continued community cohesion and strength cannot be emphasised too strongly.
The Indian media keeps its community well informed of issues that affect it and that make it special.
I continue to follow the progress of a Free Trade Agreement with India with special interest, firstly because I was involved in the early stages as a minister, but mostly because I believe that such an agreement would be enormously beneficial to our economy. I will continue to do everything I can to make this become a reality.
Phil Goff is Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.
