The Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) recently hosted its 9th annual International Media Conference at the Hilton Stamford Convention Center in Stamford, CT. The conference featured media seminars, workshops, motivational sessions, an awards gala, a musical/cultural program by Hedge Group featuring renowned artists from India and the United States. 

Themed “Bridging Borders: Media's Role in a Globalized World,” , the two-day event drew dozens of media persons from the United States, Canada and India. Special guests included, Nimmy Mehta, Advocate A. Jayashankar, PP James, editor in charge at 24 News,  V. Aravind, assistant executive editor at 24 News.  

IAPC conference inauguration

In his inaugural address, Kamlesh Mehta, chairman of IAPC said, “The Indo-American Press Club has always been at the forefront of promoting cultural exchange, fostering dialogue, and encouraging collaboration between India and the United States. This conference embodies our commitment to these ideals.” 

In keeping with the theme, he urged the journalists to continue building bridges rather than walls. “Let us commit to facilitating open and honest dialogues that transcend boundaries and promote mutual respect. Let us strive for a world where information is a force for unity, not division,” he added. 

An opening address by IAPC general secretary C G Daniel was followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by representatives from both the international organization and the local chapters. Ginsmon Zachariah, founder chairman of IAPC administered the oath of office to a dozen new members who were joining the IAPC team.

Keynote speaker Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox

Chair of the Department of Justice and Law, and Associate Professor of Legal Studies at Quinnipiac University, Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox,delivered the keynote address. Maintaining that journalists provide the foundation on which a democracy is built, she said, “Journalism educates, it helps people relate to one another, and brings together those who may be different, but who can advocate for a common cause. Thank you for helping us all maintain that commitment to democracy and human rights! And thank you for educating the public!”

At the awards gala on day two, renowned humanitarian and founder of the Giving Back Foundation, Meera Gandhi spoke about “The Role Of Media In A Polarized World” and urged those present in the audience to deliver more truthful information while avoiding divisive, nuances in their news stories.

Highlighting the important role of the media, she asserted, “The future of millions of people are in your hands you the press, the journalists, the media outlets, - you have a very serious responsibility —do not hand it over to demagogues and self-interest people. We are an amazing race let’s stay connected, undivided, happy and informed. You the journalist here today can make this happen. I salute all your efforts!”

Meera Gandhi (centre) with the Lifetime Achievement award recipients.

Gandhi was recognised for her philanthropy with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Vinay Mahajan, national president of ITServe Alliance Inc, H.R. Shah, chairman & CEO of TV Asia Group, Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician and a veteran leader of AAPI, Shajan Skariah, promoter and editor of the online portal “Marunadan Malayali” and Dr. Renu Abraham Varughese, associate professor at the School of Health and Natural Sciences, Mercy University, NY, were the other recipients of the same award.

For their efforts in informing the diaspora, other journalists were honored as well. Informative discussions on topics such as “Social Media Influencers: Challenges & Scopes” and “Media and Legal Issues” enlightened the attendees at the conference. During the evening, IAPC also released a souvenir 2023, which was curated by the editorial team led by Dr. Mathew Joys, a well-known writer and columnist in North America, and Shan Justus, a tech expert. 

IAPC was founded with a mission to unite the Indian diaspora media fraternity across North America under one roof to collaborate, support one another, and provide a unified voice that represents the larger community. The organization routinely arranges workshops and seminars, as well as annual media conferences, at which prominent journalists and media professionals from all over the world congregate.