Prominent community leader and former president of Auckland Indian Association Inc,
Narendra Bhana, has added another feather to his already illustrious cap. He was recently elected as the President of the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA), an apex body of Indians, at its 96th Annual General Conference, which took place virtually on Saturday 2 April and was attended by some 140 delegates
throughout NZ.
In conversation with Indian Weekender, Bhana who has been associated with the 102-
year-old Auckland Indian Association for more than a decade, revealed his keenness to transform the organisation by bringing more energy, diversity, and visibility within the
wider communities. Bhana has consistently been featured in the Indian Weekender's Twenty Five Most Influential Kiwi-Indians annual publication.
Q1. What is your vision for NZICA?
My vision for the NZICA includes improving its engagement with the wider Indian community organisations throughout NZ and government agencies. I also aim to successfully implement the current strategic plan, which includes leadership, preservation of culture, women empowerment, and youth advancement. I aim to develop a compelling “why join NZICA” story to help other Indian community organisations join NZICA and work towards acquiring more funding to support various activities and new initiatives. Lastly, I would like to implement digital transformation to improve operational efficiencies and outreach successfully.
Q2. What kind of responsibility do you feel on your shoulders now?
Although NZICA is a well-established Indian Community organisation, it faces several challenges. The most formidable is its continued relevance in a changing world of changing expectations and opportunities. Unfortunately, it is still not easily accessed by all Indian community associations, and my most significant responsibility will be to make NZICA accessible to all community organisations throughout NZ.
Q3. What are the priority issues you would be addressing as the NZICA president?
Several matters require urgent attention. The most important one is the organisation's constitution. It is outdated and is not fit for its purpose. It requires review and update, which will allow NZICA to connect with Indian community organisations, meet the current needs of Kiwi-Indians and achieve its objectives.
Q4. How do you see the growth of the Indian community in NZ?
The Indian community is constantly growing and is becoming increasingly diverse in NZ. The aspirations of our people are also evolving, and it is heartening to see that many of our people are making remarkable progress in their chosen careers.
Q5. What will be the challenges you would face in this role, and what is your strategy to deal with them?
The organisation requires a total overhaul. The Executive Members' ability to adapt to changes will be the biggest challenge. I have served the Indian community in Auckland for several years in various leadership capacities. The knowledge and experience I have gained over the last few years will allow me to deal with challenges more effectively.
Q6. Are we going to see any significant changes in the functioning of NZICA
Yes, most definitely. I plan to transform the NZICA into a highly visible, more accessible and engaged Indian community organisation in NZ. I would like to see the NZICA become a household name in 6 - 12 months.
Q7. What does this role signify for you?
I am looking forward to serving the Indian community in New Zealand. I see this role as my opportunity to provide leadership and make a visible impact on Kiwi-Indians living in New Zealand
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