Coca-Cola and Global Shapers partner towards ‘Shaping Identities’ at Shape South Asia 2016

Ishteyaque Amjad interacting with the Global Shapers during the opening reception

‘Shape South Asia 2016’ recently concluded in Colombo saw Coca-Cola as the Youth Partner of the regional summit. Attended by over 60 Global Shapers from across the region, the event was hosted by the Global Shapers Colombo hub and held under the theme ‘Shaping Identities’. The Chief Guest at the event was Minister of Finance Ravi Karunanayake and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Harsha De Silva delivered the keynote address. Also in attendance were many youth leaders, members of the Government and civil society as well as members of the private sector.

Coca-Cola India and South West Asia Vice President of Public Affairs and Communication Ishteyaque Amjad delivered a special address at the opening reception of the event. The Coca-Cola senior leadership also hosted the Global Shapers to an exclusive gathering led by a discussion with Coca-Cola Sri Lanka Ltd. Managing Director Sonu Grover. The discussion focused on valuable insights such as the impact of simplicity in an increasingly volatile world, and Coca-Cola’s initiatives which produce exponential positive change through the empowerment of local communities.  

Commenting on Coca-Cola’s engagement with the Global Shapers Community at the event, Ishteyaque Amjad stated, “Coca-Cola is proud to be the Impact Partner of the Global Shapers Community and we extend our support to this significant event in the capacity of Official Youth Partner. This partnership is a reflection of Coca-Cola’s unwavering belief in the potential of our youth and the positive impact that they can make in building sustainable communities and driving change. Events like these help to give youth an important voice and platform, and we are delighted to support all efforts to empower the young global leaders who have gathered here.” 

In his opening address at the regional summit he said, “History shows us that growth usually occurs on a regional level and is seldom achieved by a single country. Over the years we have seen many South Asian nations demonstrate a greater commitment to regional cooperation and growth. Our youth are the growth engine in today’s global economy and are actively making significant contributions to key sectors such as the IT and the BPO industries. Additionally, youth are also a key market and many companies are continuously striving to cater their products and services to meet the needs of this all-important customer base.”

He further added, “Technology and increased internet penetration have also paved the way for youth to traverse boundaries and the rise of social media has ushered in a new era – the age of awareness which has enabled youth to connect on a global level. The internet and digital media channels have united youth of different cultures, religions and ethnicities. Coca-Cola for instance focuses on the fusion of music and uses digital platforms to connect youth of different backgrounds, who share a passion for music. Young people today have the power to influence change by making informed decisions and delivering practical solutions. The youth are our future leaders and have the power to make a positive impact in our world on both a social and economic level.”

The three-day Shape South Asia 2016 event featured an array of interactive discussions, activities, meetings and speeches which encouraged the Global Shapers in attendance to explore the meaning of a South Asian identity and urged them to challenge themselves to reach new heights in their work of shaping communities, as successful millennial leaders. The bid to host the regional summit Shape South Asia 2016 was won by the Colombo Hub and Global Shapers from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka came together for the event. 

The Global Shapers Community is an initiative of the World Economic Forum. It is a network of hubs developed and led by young people between the age of 20 and 30; that are exceptional in their potential, their achievements and their drive to make a contribution to their communities. 

There are currently over 400 Hubs in over 150 countries with over 4,500 Shapers globally who are a part of the community.