The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) will celebrate its 36th anniversary by honoring exceptional individuals at its 2025 Convention. The event will take place from March 28 to 30 at the Brisbane Marriott in Queensland, Australia, with the grand awards ceremony scheduled for March 29. GOPIO will recognize five individuals for their professional and business accomplishments and three for their dedication to community service.
The conference will be inaugurated by prominent dignitaries, including Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, and India’s Consul General Neetu M. Bhagotia. They will be welcomed by GOPIO leaders, including Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham, President Prakash Shah, Executive Vice President Umesh Chandra (who is also the event’s Convener), and Vice President Kewal Kanda.
Among the awardees, Peter Varghese, Chancellor of Queensland University and former Australian High Commissioner to India and Malaysia, will be recognized for his contributions to public service. Entrepreneur Maha Sinnathamby, Founder and Chairman of Springfield City Group, will be honored for his achievements in business and city planning. Shaheen Majeed, Global CEO of Sabinsa Corp., will receive recognition for his leadership in the healthcare industry. Professor Prasad KDV Yarlagadda, Dean at the University of Southern Queensland, will be acknowledged for his impact on engineering and applied sciences. International journalist and filmmaker Rohit Vyas will be awarded for his contributions to media and broadcasting.
Additionally, GOPIO will recognize three individuals for their service to the Indian diaspora. Archana Singh, former Honorary Consul of India in Queensland, will be celebrated for her work strengthening community ties. Professor Rajasekhar Vangapaty, a GOPIO-Manhattan leader and academic advisor, will be acknowledged for his contributions to education and charitable initiatives. Harmohan Singh Walia, a community leader and founder of GOPIO-Sydney Northwest, will be honored for his years of service to diaspora organizations.
The convention will feature discussions on cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, and Biomedical Innovations. Other sessions will focus on the role of the Indian diaspora in global business, women’s contributions to various industries, and the engagement of young professionals in diaspora movements.
GOPIO, established in 1989, is a global non-profit dedicated to strengthening connections between Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and People of Indian Origin (PIOs). With over 100 chapters in 36 countries, the organization fosters collaboration and community service worldwide.
