Nairobi, Kenya, September 23, 2024 – The United Asian Network (UAN) in Kenya held its inaugural Leadership Summit this past weekend, bringing together community leaders, business executives, and youth from across the country to discuss critical issues surrounding national cohesion and economic stability. Hosted at the East African Ramgarhia Board, the summit aimed to establish a collaborative framework for addressing social and economic challenges while promoting peace and development.
With an impressive turnout, the summit was officially opened by Mr. Surinder Singh Sihra, who emphasized the importance of utilizing community resources to enhance Kenya’s socio-economic prosperity.
The organization’s Chairman, Dr. Bimal Kantaria, underscored the need for the organization to invest in national development. “If you make money in the country, it’s important to invest in the contribution towards national growth,” he stated, highlighting the crucial role of the Asian community in Kenya’s economic landscape.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Vimal Shah, Co-founder and Chairman of Bidco Africa, who spoke passionately about the significance of national cohesion in a multicultural society. “Cut off the silos; these are what divides a nation,” he urged, a message that resonated throughout the day’s discussions. His insights aligned with the summit’s intent as participants expressed enthusiasm for collaborative initiatives.
The summit featured four thematic tracks aimed at addressing specific community needs:
1. Understanding National Cohesion: Moderated by Mr. P.V.S. Rao, this session highlighted the necessity of internal unity within the community as a precursor to broader national cohesion.
2. Economic Collaboration: This track garnered significant interest, focusing on the disparity between economic and political collaboration among Asian communities. It was noted that risk aversion is hindering entrepreneurship, prompting UAN’s Mombasa Chapter to commit to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, especially among the youth.
3. Gen Z Action Planning: The energy in this session was palpable as young leaders expressed their determination to drive change for the greater good of Kenya. Their enthusiasm and innovative ideas captivated both younger and older generations, showcasing the potential of the next generation of leaders.
4. Community Empowerment: Throughout the summit, there was a shared recognition of the need for a unified platform to serve as a catalyst for collective action. Community leaders, including Mrs. Bindi Shah of the Visa Oshwal Community and Mr. Murtaza Mohamedali of the Dawoodi Bohra community, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of a centralized focus to amplify their efforts.
Dr. Amit Thakker, UAN’s Vice-chair, reinforced the principles of honesty and transparency as foundational to sustainable success in both business and community engagement.
As the summit concluded, Mr. Rajesh Shah reminded attendees that “charity begins at home,” emphasizing the importance of internal transformation for the broader benefit of Kenya.
The United Asian Network, a not-for-profit organization representing diverse Asian communities in Kenya, aims to foster collaboration through its four pillars: Economic Connector, Asian Identity, National Engagement, and Social Harmony. The summit marks a significant step towards realizing these goals, setting the stage for future initiatives that promise to strengthen the Asian community’s involvement in Kenya’s socio-economic landscape.
As Kenya navigates complex social dynamics, UAN’s commitment to fostering unity and cooperation stands as a beacon of hope, promising a brighter, more inclusive future for all. This initiative has attracted the attention of respected economist and former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi, who termed it timely given Kenya’s current economic challenges and political dynamics. “The Asian community is a key driver of Kenya’s economy, and the time is ripe for them to participate in national dialogue as key stakeholders,” he said.
Present were Mrs. Bindi Shah Visa Oshwal Community, Mr. Murtaza Mohamedali Dawoodi Bohra, Mr. Atul Raithatha Shree Lohana Mahajan, Mrs. Shamira Dostmohamed Ismaili community , Mr. Gamdoor Singh Panesar Sri Gurdwara Ramgarhia Railway South C , Mrs. Sujata Kotamraju Hindu Council of Kenya and Mr. Parul Bhatta, Kenya Brahma Sabha.
It was sponsored by:
Elgon Kenya, Africa Health Business, Engage, Milly Glass Works Mombasa,
Alpharama,GA insurance. Osho Chemicals, JCB Ganatra, Executive Healthcare Solutions,
R H Devani, Astral Aviation, Nairobi Neurocare,
Myra IVF, Prime Bank, MacCoffee, Hasmukh Devani,
For further information:
Mobile: 0722 974189
Email: harleen@uan.co.ke
Website: www.uan.co.ke
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unitedasiannetwork
Twitter: @uan_kenya
Instagram: @uan_ke
LinkedIn: united-asian-network-limited
