Celebrating South Asian Heritage is a celebration of diversity

Celebrating South Asian Heritage month is a celebration of diversity in and of itself.

That's the view Ravi Masih, head of community engagement at Edgbaston and executive committee member for Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC).

He made the comments in light of South Asian Heritage month, an annual celebration taking place between 18 July and 17 August.

The event seeks to raise the profile of British South Asian Heritage and history in the UK, in a bid to help people better understand diversity of present-day Britain.

He said that for younger generations, it is important for them to appreciate and feel proud of their heritage.

Ravi (pictured)said: "For our younger generations who have grown up in the UK it 's really important that they feel proud of their combined heritage and appreciate the full diversity of the South Asian diaspora.

"It 's also important to share the richness of our heritage with friends within wider British society and celebrate the rich contribution made by our diverse communities to our home nation.

"There are probably a lot of stories that have yet to be told of incredible individuals both past and present of South Asian heritage that make an amazing contribution to British society.

"For me, a key aspect is celebrating unsung heroes; whether it be in the worlds of STEM, healthcare, business, or philanthropy, to name a few, celebrating history and identity can be a source of inspiration and validation.

"I 'll say it again, but the impact on young people cannot be overstated; this can be so important as they embark on their own journey of self-discovery, self-worth, and self-reflection about their identity and the role they 'll play in the future."

Ravi added that by embracing diversity, businesses can enhance their ability to adapt and better reflect society: "Celebrating South Asian Heritage is a celebration of diversity in and of itself.

"There is so much diversity not just across the Asian subcontinent but within individual countries, India being a key example amongst many.

"Though collectively grouped as South Asian, there is immense diversity within, which adds to the overall diversity across the country. In an ever changing world, the ability to adapt is enhanced when there is diversity of ideas and for businesses the need to adapt is greater than ever before.

"By embracing diversity I believe firms enhance their ability to adapt and better reflect society."

Pam Sheemar, also an ABCC executive committee member and career accelerated pilot placement lead coverage, corporate and commercial, Midlands and East, at NatWest, added that diversity is a true asset for business, and diverse businesses are proven to be more creative and innovative.

She said: "South Asian Heritage month celebrates the relationship of UK with the South Asian counties, namely of India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives and Afghanistan, these cultural identities are intertwined in history and modern day.

"By sharing insights, culture, learnings, culture we become more inclusive and appreciative of the very value of Diversity.

"Diversity of thought is important to innovation and progress and diversity is an asset for businesses. it has been proven that diverse businesses are more creative, innovative and disruptive and links to outperformance in their bottom line.

"Present day Britain is a wonderful wealth of diversity and this melting pot of cultures and heritage is the lighting rod to being a leader in the world for businesses.