Auckland came alive as the Indian Newslink Business Awards 2025 delivered a night filled with achievement, inspiration, and community pride. This long-standing awards ceremony, founded and shaped by respected journalist and community leader Venkat Raman, once again showcased why it remains one of the most influential events in New Zealand’s business landscape.
More than an awards night, the event reflected a legacy. For over two decades, Indian Newslink has championed migrant success stories, held leaders accountable, and created space for entrepreneurs to shine. The 2025 awards continued this tradition with elegance, cultural vibrance, and powerful speeches that connected business excellence with national development.
A Legacy Carved by Venkat Raman
Every year, the Indian Newslink Business Awards carry the signature vision of Venkat Raman, whose dedication to quality journalism and community upliftment has made the platform a trusted name in New Zealand.
The awards represent:
- A space for recognising migrant contribution
- A bridge between businesses and policymakers
- A platform that encourages transparency and excellence
- A celebration of diversity in Aotearoa’s economic story
His commitment was felt throughout the evening, from the curated programme to the dignitary engagement and the emotional commemoration awards.
A Grand Opening With Culture, Energy, and Warmth
The evening began with cocktails and networking, followed by introductory remarks by the MC, Kathleen Morrison.
A warm welcome address was delivered by Hon Priyanca Radhakrishnan, celebrating the community’s achievements.
This was followed by a special cultural performance by Ratna Venkat, accompanied by the Gurus of Groove Band, adding colour and rhythm to the evening.
A Strong Line-up of Ministers and Community Leaders
One of the defining features of the 2025 ceremony was the high-profile presence of New Zealand’s political leadership. Throughout the programme, guests heard from:
- Hon Mark Mitchell, Minister of Ethnic Communities
- Hon Carmel Sepuloni, delivering The Past 26 Years: An Overview
- Rt Hon Chris Hipkins
- Hon Chris Bishop, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure
Each speaker acknowledged the growing influence of the Kiwi Indian community, the strength of migrant businesses, and the importance of inclusion in national development.
Their presence demonstrated the significance of the awards at a government level and the trust placed in this platform by leaders across political lines.
Panel Discussion: The Future of Growth, Investment, and New Zealand’s Vision
A major highlight of the night was the panel on the theme
“2026 and Beyond: Stimulating Growth and Investment.”
Moderated by Craig Stobo, Chairman of the Financial Markets Authority, the discussion brought together diverse voices, including:
- Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Investments and Initiatives
- Dr Deborah Russell, Politics of the Future
- Hon Simeon Brown, Minister of Health
- Hon Jenny Salesa, Growth with Ethnic Communities
- Hon Chris Penk, Minister of Small Business and Manufacturing
- Mr Neil Paviour-Smith, Vision for New Zealand
The panel explored the future of public health, ethnic growth, small business resilience, investment strategies, and New Zealand’s long-term economic direction leading toward 2029.
Their insights offered a rare opportunity for the business community to hear directly from policymakers and economic voices.
Awards Ceremony: Honouring Excellence Across Sectors
The awards presentation recognised outstanding enterprises and individuals across multiple categories.
The official list included:
Business Awards
- Business Excellence in Retail Trade
- Business Excellence in Innovation
- Business Excellence in Marketing
- Business Excellence in Customer Service
- Best Small Business
- Best Large Business
- Business Excellence in International Trade with India
- Best Young Entrepreneur of the Year
- Best Financial Advisor of the Year
- Best Businesswoman of the Year
- Supreme Business of the Year
Leaders like Indira Srigiri and organisations such as Link2 Group were widely appreciated for their achievements, leadership, and impact within the community.
Indian Newslink Commemoration Awards: Honouring Community Legends
Another emotional and meaningful segment was the Indian Newslink Commemoration Awards, recognising community builders, mentors, and pioneers.
Awards included:
- Raman Ray Ranchhod Commemoration Award
- Wenceslaus Anthony Commemoration Award
- Dr Robert Lateef Khan Commemoration Award
- Ravin Lal Commemoration Award
- NVR Swami Commemoration Award
- Additional Indian Newslink Commemoration Awards
These recognitions honoured individuals whose lifetime contributions continue to uplift the Kiwi Indian community.
A Celebration That Goes Beyond Awards
The 2025 ceremony represented:
- The strength of New Zealand’s multicultural identity
- A deep commitment to community-led progress
- The power of platforms like Indian Newslink to influence public dialogue
- A bridge between business and policy
- A celebration of both legacy and emerging leadership
The mix of cultural performances, ministerial participation, and professional presentation created an atmosphere filled with pride, unity, and ambition.
A Meaningful Conclusion
The evening concluded with formal photographs followed by networking, allowing guests, leaders, businesses, and community representatives to connect, collaborate, and celebrate together.
The Indian Newslink Business Awards 2025 once again highlighted how far the Kiwi Indian community has come, and how instrumental platforms like Indian Newslink will be in shaping the future.
With Venkat Raman’s continued leadership, the awards remain a powerful symbol of excellence and a proud chapter in New Zealand’s business and community story.
