Speaking at the House of Commons!

I am truly honoured and grateful for the opportunity to speak at the House of Commons on 13 May 2024, at the event titled “The Commonwealth – Where Do We Go From Here?” Hosted by the Rt. Hon. David Jones, MP, and Dr. Sibani Roy of NWAMI, the event brought together an inspiring group of scholars, activists, and thought leaders, all coming together to discuss the future of the Commonwealth and to share cultural presentations that celebrated the rich diversity within this global network.

I had the privilege of opening the speaker’s round with my address on “Navigating Cultural Diversity – An Intercultural Integration Perspective.” In my speech, I emphasised the critical importance of cultural awareness, especially in a time when societies and organisations face increasing global interconnectedness. I also highlighted the dangers of institutional exclusion and the need for inclusive frameworks that recognise the value of every culture within our communities. Drawing upon my experiences as an Intercultural Community Counsellor and Global Strategist, I outlined how embracing cultural diversity can enhance societal cohesion and drive innovation.

In particular, I pointed to Malta’s diverse society as a powerful example of the Commonwealth’s cultural richness—a microcosm where different histories, languages, and traditions come together to create a dynamic and thriving community. Malta’s own journey in intercultural integration offers valuable lessons for broader Commonwealth collaboration, and I was pleased to share these insights with such a distinguished audience.

This was an unforgettable experience, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important dialogue. I look forward to continuing these discussions and working with others to build a more inclusive and harmonious future for the Commonwealth and beyond.

The session, facilitated by Rajan Nazran, highlighted crucial issues like rising nationalism, inequality, climate change, and the need for intergenerational collaboration. Dr. Raghasuda Vinjamuri shared insights on the Siddi community’s integration into India, and Dr. Mohamed Keshavjee posed questions about repurposing the Commonwealth and engaging the youth. Liynyuy Mfikela Jean Samuel and Dr. Balasubramanyam Chandramohan discussed nurturing creative talents and leveraging diverse cultures.

James Boston called for reparatory justice and greater autonomy within the Commonwealth. Rajan Nazran emphasised enhancing the collective wealth and experiences of all members.

The event concluded with a fusion of an Indian raga and a Welsh song by Amruta Garud, symbolising cultural unity. It was an enriching experience, and I’m thankful to have been given this wonderful opportunity to share my thoughts.