The much-anticipated 12-Day BRICS CCI Young Leaders Summit 2.0: Leadership Dialogue commenced with a series of impactful sessions and distinguished speakers, marking a dynamic beginning to this transformative program. Designed to equip the next generation of leaders with essential skills and knowledge, the first three days have set a high bar for the remaining days of the dialogue.
The summit was formally inaugurated by Mr. Sameep Shastri, Vice Chairman of BRICS CCI and President of the BRICS CCI Young Leaders Vertical. In his special remarks, Mr. Shastri emphasized the importance of this initiative in shaping future leaders and fostering cross-cultural dialogue among young minds. He highlighted the summit’s goal to equip participants with essential leadership skills and knowledge crucial for addressing contemporary global challenges. Mr. Shastri stated, “The BRICS CCI Young Leaders Summit 2.0 represents a unique opportunity for young leaders to gain invaluable insights from experienced professionals and thought leaders. This initiative is not just about learning; it’s about inspiring action and cultivating a vision for a better tomorrow.
The Leadership Dialogue began on a high note with a compelling address by Shri Rajkumar Roat, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha. Shri Roat’s keynote speech was a masterclass in visionary leadership, highlighting the vital role of education in the upliftment of the downtrodden and the importance of politics in shaping societal change. He emphasized, “As young leaders, it is our duty to guarantee that every child receives comprehensive education, regardless of their background, to build a stronger and more resilient nation.””
Shri Roat shared his insights on the evolving landscape of policy-making, emphasizing the significance of inclusive leadership in addressing socio-economic issues. He also offered a detailed account of parliamentary proceedings, providing valuable perspectives on legislative processes and their impact on national development. His inspiring words set a transformative tone for the dialogue, encouraging participants to embrace visionary thinking and to strive for impactful leadership in their respective fields.
The second day of the Leadership Dialogue featured two highly engaging sessions that delved into key aspects of governance and strategic communication.
The first session of day 2 was led by Ms. Kalpana Sharma, Former Additional Secretary to Lok Sabha and Senior Advisor at BRICS CCI. Ms. Sharma provided a comprehensive overview of parliamentary procedures and governance frameworks. Her session was particularly valuable for participants seeking to understand the intricacies of legislative processes and the art of effective policy-making. She encouraged, “As we come together today, I invite you to challenge me with tough and uncomfortable questions that will make me reflect on whether I am on the right path.”
Ms. Sharma’s presentation covered the essential elements of parliamentary governance, including the roles and responsibilities of legislators, the legislative process, and the importance of transparent and accountable governance. Her insights offered participants a deep understanding of how parliamentary systems operate and how leaders can navigate these frameworks to drive meaningful change.
In the afternoon, Ms. Aradhana Sharma, Communications Specialist at the Election Commission of India, delivered a thought-provoking session on the role of strategic communication in effective leadership. Her presentation provided participants with valuable insights into the art of crafting impactful messages and managing public relations.
She shared detailed examples of the Election Commission’s recent marketing campaigns for the 2024 elections, which aimed to create awareness about the significance of voting and encourage higher voter turnout. Her discussion also emphasized the role of youth as pivotal agents of change. She remarked, “It is crucial to recognize the significant roles and responsibilities we hold. These are far greater than we often realize.”
Day 3 began with an inspiring session by Mr. Sahil Seth, Joint Commissioner for GST, Customs, and Narcotics. Mr. Seth’s session was particularly notable for its focus on guiding UPSC aspirants through his own journey. Drawing from his personal experiences with the UPSC examination process, Mr. Seth provided practical advice and motivation for those pursuing careers in regulatory and administrative fields.
Mr. Seth’s guidance included strategies for preparing for competitive examinations, insights into the regulatory frameworks he navigates, and advice on career development in public administration. His session was a source of inspiration for participants, particularly those aiming to enter the civil services, and offered a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the regulatory domain. He also emphasized on the external factors of success when it comes to success in civil services by quoting, “Hardwork is the most important ingredient while preparing for UPSC but destiny matters a lot.”
The day concluded with a session by Shri Imran Pratapgarhi, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha. Shri Pratapgarhi’s presentation focused on the role of political leadership in shaping national policies and driving social change. He shared his experiences and insights into the responsibilities of political leaders and the impact of legislative decisions on society. He inspired the youth delegates by quoting, “If a poet from a small town can become a Member of Parliament then what’s stopping the youth to be the enablers of the future.”
Shri Pratapgarhi’s session provided participants with a deeper understanding of the political landscape and the significant role that leadership plays in addressing national and global issues. His address underscored the importance of commitment, vision, and ethical leadership in driving effective policy and fostering positive societal impact.
The first three days of the 12-Day Leadership Dialogue have showcased the program’s commitment to delivering high-quality content and fostering meaningful engagement. The sessions have provided participants with a wealth of knowledge, practical insights, and inspiration from leading experts and distinguished guests.
All sessions were followed by one-on-one interactive sessions with the participants. During these interactions, participants had the opportunity to ask various questions to the speakers. All the speakers responded with patience and enthusiasm, making the interactions a valuable part of the learning experience.
As the Leadership Dialogue continues, participants can look forward to more opportunities to engage with thought leaders, explore essential themes in leadership, and develop the skills necessary to navigate the complex challenges of today’s world. The program is designed not only to enhance participants’ leadership capabilities but also to foster a collaborative learning environment where ideas and experiences can be shared and valued. The dialogue aims to equip the next generation of leaders with the tools and perspectives needed to make a positive impact in their respective fields and beyond.