Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month at Bletchley Park: A Night of Inspiration

Milton Keynes Ethnic Business Community held an incredible event bringing together community leaders, inspiring speakers, and talented performers for a memorable evening that celebrated diversity, heritage, and unity.

Our very own Diversity and Inclusion Manager, Hawwa Dorrington, attended the event on Wednesday evening 31/7 and thoroughly enjoyed the festivities and the impactful messages shared throughout the night.

The event took place in the stunning auditorium at Bletchley Park Trust, a venue that has recently hosted world leaders and innovators for the Global AI Summit. The significance of celebrating South Asian Heritage Month on such a prestigious stage added to the night’s excitement and energy.

The evening began with delicious food and networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect and engage with one another. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation, which quickly turned into excitement as the powerful beats of the Dhol drum echoed through the venue. This traditional sound led guests from the dining area into the auditorium, setting the tone for an evening of celebration and inspiration.

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers who shared their stories and insights, leaving a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.

• Shanika Mahendran: As the first Asian woman to become a cabinet member in Milton Keynes, Shanika shared her journey and achievements. Her story was a testament to the progress being made in our communities and inspired many young attendees to aim high in their pursuits.
• Kurshida Mirza: The current #HighSheriff of Buckinghamshire, Kurshida, is the first Muslim woman of South Asian heritage to hold this esteemed position. Her address highlighted the importance of representation and diversity in leadership roles, encouraging attendees to embrace their unique identities.
• Susan Lakhan: The keynote speaker, Susan, captivated the audience with her powerful story of personal transformation. Her talk focused on physical, mental, and spiritual growth, inspiring many to reflect on their journeys and how they can help others.

The audience was treated to a breathtaking performance by Swapna Alladi, who showcased the beauty and grace of Indian classical dance. Her performance was a highlight of the evening, illustrating the rich cultural heritage of South Asia through movement and expression.

As the formal program concluded, the energy in the room remained high, with attendees engaging in animated conversations. The networking continued beyond the venue, demonstrating the strong connections formed during the event.

Hawwa Dorrington, our Diversity and Inclusion Manager at 1055 The Point, was particularly inspired by the evening. She noted how important it is to see diverse communities celebrated and the positive impact such events have on fostering understanding and unity.

This celebration of South Asian Heritage Month sponsored by Milton Keynes Council was a resounding success, thanks to the efforts of the organisers and some of the founders of MKEBC, Precious Zumbika MBA, Ranjit Singh, Laxman Kastala BEM, Sanjeet Chandi, and Gamiel Yafai, and their growing number participants.

They are already planning their next cultural celebration! Mark your calendars for October 2nd, when another exciting event will take place to honour Black History Month.