Great news to begin the year with—an Indian migrant elected to Parliament. Although it did happen last year, the Indian community is still celebrating the achievement of Kaushaliya Vaghela, who came to Australia 20 years ago as a student and now finds herself the first Indian born MP in the Victorian Parliament. “I’m a fanatic for freedom, fairness, feminism, food, fitness, and family,” says Kaushaliya.
Kaushaliya had earlier served as advisor to Minister of Multicultural Affairs Hon Robin Scott and joined the party last year.
One of our writers had met author and motivational speaker Kamal Sarma, who has led an interesting life from living in Assam to moving to Australia and then returning to India to live in an Ashram before starting off on a corporate career. When his daughter died, he struggled with depression before becoming the inspiring speaker he is today. He has written three books on mental resilience and leadership, all of which I am told are very inspiring to read. Human Connections are what he “specialises” in, if you can term it that. His interview here throws up some rather interesting observations on life and human nature.
His son Kailash too seems to be a teen innovator. His ‘Academy of Speakers’ teaches public speaking to youth from the indigenous and refugee communities. It’s not surprising that his dad is his role model.
But all in all, a great cover story to read. Enjoy the issue.
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
