On Saturday, September 28, 2024, the Indian Diaspora Council (IDC/FIDE) and the Foundation for Critical Choices for India (FCCI), in partnership with Sparta Cricket Club, successfully organized the event “Empowering Indian Diaspora Through Sports.” Held at the Sparta Sports Cricket Club in Capelle aan den Ijssel, Netherlands, the event brought together leaders from both the Indian diaspora and the Dutch community to promote the importance of sports in fostering social integration and personal development.
The event underscored the role of sports in building community spirit, bridging cultures, and inspiring collaboration. It also focused on how sports can contribute to both personal and professional growth. The day featured insightful panel discussions and a cricket match, which reinforced the central theme of unity and development through sports.
Inaugural Session: Celebrating the Role of Sports in Community Building
The event opened with a warm welcome from Mr. Leo de Jong, President of Sparta Cricket Club, who emphasized the critical role sports play in uniting communities and fostering a sense of belonging.
Jasbir Singh, President of FCCI & FIDE, delivered the keynote address, sharing the mission of both organizations and stressing the importance of empowering the Indian diaspora through various initiatives. He highlighted how sports can serve as a powerful tool for unification.
Suman Korenhof-Taneja, Director of Public Relations at FCCI, introduced the event’s theme, Empowering Indian Diaspora Through Sports Initiatives. She emphasized how sports can aid professional and personal development while fostering cultural exchange and integration.
An important moment came when Rabin Baldewsingh, National Coordinator against Discrimination and Racism in the Netherlands, addressed the critical issue of racism in sports. He spoke about the significance of combating discrimination and how inclusive sports activities can help integrate diverse communities into Dutch society.
Natasha Mohamed-Hoesein, Deputy Mayor of Rotterdam, also delivered a compelling speech on the Full Participation of the Indian Diaspora in Dutch Society. She addressed the challenges faced by immigrant communities and highlighted the potential of sports to create a more inclusive environment.
Panel Discussion: Insights on Sports, Racism, and Community Building
One of the highlights of the event was an engaging panel discussion moderated by Mr. Bikram Lalbahdoersingh, Treasurer of IDC/FIDE. The discussion featured insights from experts on the role of sports in breaking down barriers and fostering community ties.
The distinguished panelists included:
- Mr. Rajiv Mehra, Vice-President of NICCT, on the significance of India-Netherlands partnerships.
- Ambassador Eric Niehe, former Dutch Ambassador and Olympian, on sports’ global impact.
- Dr. Vijay Gangadin, APNA Chairman, on leadership and personal growth through sports.
- Ms. Denise van Deventer, former Dutch Women’s Cricket captain, on gender representation in sports.
The discussion concluded with a lively Q&A session, allowing participants to share their thoughts and questions on the topics discussed.
Sports as a Unifying Force
The cricket match that followed the panel discussions brought participants and spectators together, providing a live demonstration of sports’ ability to promote unity and integration. Coordinated by Mr. Akbal Mohamed from FCCI/FIDE, the match reinforced the themes of collaboration and social cohesion that had been discussed throughout the day.
Closing Ceremony and Prize Distribution
The event concluded with a closing ceremony and prize distribution, led by Mr. Jasbir Singh, President of FCCI, and Dr. Pramod Agrawal, Vice President (Programs) at FCCI. Trophies and medals were awarded to the winners, celebrating their contributions to the event.
Dr. Pramod Agrawal delivered the vote of thanks, expressing deep appreciation to Mr. Hemant Mishra, Secretary General of IDC/FIDE, and Mr. Dave Gurnani, Vice President of Finance at FCCI, along with the participants, organizers, speakers, panelists, and volunteers. The ceremony was skillfully hosted by Ms. Pranita Deshpande, Director of International Affairs at FCCI, who served as the event’s Master of Ceremony.
The event concluded with a networking session, where participants exchanged ideas and explored ways to further empower the Indian diaspora through sports and other initiatives.
For more information about upcoming activities, please visit the websites of FCCI and IDC/FIDE: