Adelaide ( South Autralia), 5 August (H.S.): The World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) 2025, held from 1 to 3 August at the Adelaide Convention Centre, concluded successfully, welcoming over 600 delegates globally and marking South Australia’s inaugural hosting of this significant event. Under the theme “Empowering Growth – Prosperity, Innovation & Sustainability,” the forum facilitated discussions among business leaders, investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from multiple nations, including Bharat, Australia, the US, Canada, and the UK.
The event commenced with a Welcome to Country by Elder Parry Agius and featured over 20 thematic sessions addressing key sectors like renewable energy, defence, education, and healthcare. Rajendra Pandey, Chairperson of the Organising Committee, emphasized the forum's dynamic nature as a global networking platform where innovative ideas can translate into partnerships and investments.
Political support was notable, with participation from Hon. Zoe Bettison MP, Hon. Joe Szakacs MP, and Hon. Vincent Tarzia MP during the inaugural session, underscoring the event's significance. A highlight was a panel on the Australia-Bharat Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, moderated by Senator Andrew McLachlan, and including prominent speakers like His Excellency Shri Gopal Baglay and Mr. Matt Opie.
Thought leadership sessions were led by distinguished figures such as Professor Patricia M. Davidson, focusing on economic growth in a borderless world. The Grand Panel discussed “Global Business Leadership for a Resilient Future,” featuring insights on evolving business paradigms from experts like Prof. Mahendhiran Sanggaran Nair and Mr. Raymond Spencer.
Swami Vigyananand, founder of WHEF, acknowledged sponsors and presented Certificates of Appreciation to long-time delegates. He also launched HAR HAR, a new initiative to support professionals in food and hospitality, continuing the momentum from WHEF 2024 held in Mumbai.
The forum included an International Expo with over 40 global trade booths, highlighting opportunities across various industries. Delegates engaged with South Australia’s innovation hubs, experiencing firsthand advancements in research and technology.
First-time attendees reported enthusiasm about networking opportunities with global business leaders, while post-conference surveys revealed optimism about future collaboration and investment. The forum positioned businesses within the Hindu community to leverage the connections made, ultimately benefiting Australia's economy. WHEF 2025 established a foundation for ongoing international cooperation and affirmed Adelaide's role as a strategic hub for trade, investment, and multicultural economic development.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar
