Global Indianstory Global Indian ExclusiveSkill India: Champions make country proud in WorldSkills Competition 2022

Skill India: Champions make country proud in WorldSkills Competition 2022

Compiled by: Amrita Priya

(December 17, 2022) In 2022, India outdid itself in the WorldSkills Competition, moving two places up the ranking table, from 13 in 2019 to 11 in 2022. With the government putting skill development in primary focus, the country has earned two silvers, three bronzes and thirteen medallions in the world’s biggest skills competition, considered the gold standard of excellence.

WorldSkills International is the global hub for skills excellence and development, founded in 1950 with the aim to provide youngsters a chance to compete, experience, and become the best in their chosen endeavour. The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under the ministry of skill development and entrepreneurship, Government of India, has been leading the nation’s participation on the WorldSkills Platform.

Nandita Saxena after winning silver medal in patisserie and confectionary

This year saw 1400 participants from 58 countries, participating in 62 categories. The events were held in a decentralised manner in 15 countries across Europe, East Asia and North America, over a period of 12 weeks between September to November 2022. Global Indian takes a look at the champions of 2022 who brought medals back home:

Nandita Saxena (silver medal in patisserie and confectionary): Nandita became the first Indian female competitor in history to win the silver medal in confectionary and patisserie at the WorldSkills platform. The Karnataka girl had joined IHM Aurangabad after her Bachelor’s degree to develop her patisserie and confectionery skills. Under the guidance of her mentor Vinesh Johny, she learned the nuances of the craft. She went to Lucerne, Switzerland to participate in the global challenge.

Indian youth | WorldSkills Competition | Global Indian

Nandita Saxena | Photo Credit: WorldSkills India

Praveen Kumar Giri (silver medal in water technology): The Odisha boy is a mechanical engineering student of CV Raman Global University. A staunch proponent of using technology for water conservation, Praveen was drawn to the field when he observed the perils of water scarcity in his surroundings growing up. He bagged the silver at the state level skill competition and went on to snag the gold at the National Skill Competition in Delhi before moving to the WorldSkills platform. He demonstrated his skills to experts in Stuttgart, Germany.

Praveen Kumar Giri | Photo Credit: WorldSkills India

Anushree Srinivasan, (bronze medal in hotel reception): The Coimbatore girl has won the first medal for the nation in the hotel reception category. The graduate from SRM Institute of Hotel Management, Kattankulathur joined ITC Hotels soon after passing out. She has internship experiences at Oberoi Hotels and Resorts and The Savera Group. Anushree used her work experience to upskill herself in problem-solving, teamwork and time management, under the mentorship of Aagman Baury. She travelled to Montreaux Switzerland to participate in the global challenge.

Anushree Shrinivasan | Photo Credit: WorldSkills India

Likith Kumar YP (bronze medal in prototype modelling): Likith travelled to Bern in Switzerland for the WorldSkills Competition. Prior to winning the bronze medal there, he had bagged the first place in the prototype modelling skill in IndiaSkills 2021 – the countrywide skill competition. Likith honed his skills under the guidance of his mentor, Bhaskar Singh, the chief expert in prototype modelling skills at Toyota India.

Likith Kumar YP | Photo Credit: WorldSkills India

Karthik Gowda Seehalli Nagaraju (bronze medal in mechatronics): Born into a humble background, the Mysore boy got the chance to hone his expertise in mechatronics at Toyota Kirloskar Motor. The twenty-year-old dedicated his win at WorldSkills 2022 to his mentor, Bhagyashree Patil. He demonstrated his skills to leading experts and manufacturers in machine vision and automation at Stuttgart, Germany.

Karthik Gowda | Photo Credit: WorldSkills India

Akhilesh Narasimhamurthy (bronze medal in mechatronics): The competitors of mechatronics were allowed to participate in a team. Akhilesh had teamed up with Karthik. This win holds a lot of significance for the youngster who has had a troubled childhood. With a specially-abled mother, Akhilesh struggled to make ends meet after his father abandoned them when he was young. He dedicated the award to his maternal uncle who funded his study. He has been trained at Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) by Bhagyashree Patil.

In WorldSkills Competition 2022, India moved two places up securing 11th position earning two silvers, three bronzes and thirteen medallions.

Akhilesh Narasimhamurthy | Photo Credit: WorldSkills India

This is the 46th edition of the WorldSkills Competition, which is held every alternate year in a new country. Originally scheduled to be held at Shanghai, this is referred as a ‘special edition’, as it was delayed due to the pandemic and then conducted in a decentralised manner across several countries.

Indian champions participated in 50 skill categories, including graphic design technology, bakery, jewellery making, web technologies, health and social care, mobile robotics, restaurant services, information network cabling, autobody repair, automobile technology, 3D digital game art, fashion technology, and hair dressing among others. 

A total of 56 competitors, 50 experts, 11 interpreters and seven team leaders were part of the Indian contingent after rigorous selection process of National Skill Development Corporation starting from district to India Skills 2022 National Competition.

Visit WorldSkills India website to know more

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Published on 17, Dec 2022

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Soumya Ranjan Biswal: Protecting the Olive Ridley turtle, one egg at a time

(November 23, 2022) Every year since the time he was 10 years old, Soumya Ranjan Biswal has walked along the beach in Astaranga, weighted down by the big gunny bag slung across his shoulder, stopping to pick up empty bottles, plastic and all manner of trash that people have left behind. This is the young wildlife conservationist's way of doing his bit for each when thousands of Olive Ridley turtles wash up on shore. Earlier in 2022, Soumya, known fondly in climate crusade circles as "Olly Boy", was appointed among the first batch of the UN's YuWaah Advocates, who will serve as an inspiration for the Sustainable Development Goals. Global Indian takes a look at his journey. Improving Climate Resilence - For Marine 🐢 Breeding Ground! We at @OdishaSeaTurtle believe in Action than symbolic performance. Reviving a 2km radius polluted water body at Devi River Mouth. Join the mission! Together we can end the plastic pollution crisis👊🌊#OdishaCoast pic.twitter.com/VU6Y17WQGU — Soumya Ranjan Biswal 🇺🇳🇮🇳 (@SoumyaMarineWL) October 26, 2022 Breaking records In 2019, Soumya, along with Dilip Kumar Biswal, a junior from college, took a month to travel through coastal areas like Rushikulya, Puri, Chillika, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak, Kendrapara and Balasore. Earlier that

👊🌊#OdishaCoast pic.twitter.com/VU6Y17WQGU

— Soumya Ranjan Biswal 🇺🇳🇮🇳 (@SoumyaMarineWL) October 26, 2022

Breaking records

In 2019, Soumya, along with Dilip Kumar Biswal, a junior from college, took a month to travel through coastal areas like Rushikulya, Puri, Chillika, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak, Kendrapara and Balasore. Earlier that year, he even went on a 1200-km cycle trip to spread awareness about the Olive Ridley sea turtle. It was an extended follow-up to the 800-km ride he took in 2018, which landed both Soumya and Dilip a spot in the Limca Book of Records for the 'Longest Cycle Ride for Turtles'.

Along the way, Soumya and Dilip stopped at government-run schools to spread awareness among the children and their families, as well as among the local fishing community. Their trip was partly sponsored by the Forest Department and the two conservationists also sold toy turtles, made from coconut fibre by the women in Astaranga, to fund their way.

The arrival of the Olive Ridley turtles in Odisha is a matter of worldwide recognition and interest, as about half the world's population comes to the coast to lay their eggs. This is part of the mass nesting process, known by the Spanish term 'arribada'. Soumya and his friends even return at night, keeping an eye out for predators like dogs and jackals, which come for the eggs. Working in tandem with officials, Soumya collects at-risk eggs and shifts them to hatcheries to incubate and hatch in safety.

[caption id="attachment_24560" align="aligncenter" width="395"] Soumya Ranjan Biswas with an Olive Ridley sea turtle[/caption]

"The sea turtles return to the same spot after navigating thousands of miles of ocean, to lay eggs in this part of Eastern India," Soumya told EdEx Live. The turtles arrive in batches and pick their spots on the beach, digging holes with their flippers. Each turtle lays around 70 to 190 eggs before returning to the water. "If the turtles keep coming back to the same spot every year to nest, then they are doing well. But if they don't, something is wrong."

Mangrove restoration

In Astaranga village, where he's from, Soumya is working to restore the Bhitarkanika Mangroves, a 650km stretch in the Brahmani and Baitarani river deltas. Some 62 mangrove species are found in Bhitarknanika, which is home to a number of species including the saltwater crocodile, king cobra, over 200 bird species and of course, the Olive Ridley turtles, which arrive at the Gahirmatha Beach.

[caption id="attachment_24559" align="aligncenter" width="575"] Soumya at the Mangrove Nursery. Photo: Twitter[/caption]

Although the mangroves were designated as a 'Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and are a vital part of the coastal ecosystem as well as to the livelihoods of local fishermen, they have dwindled over the years. The mangroves, he hopes, will grow to provide a habitat for various animal and bird species.

India has a mangrove cover of nearly 5,000 square kilometres, according to the India State of Forest Report 2019. Although the mangrove cover in Gujarat has increased, the number of mangroves in Odisha has seen a steady decline over the years, caused by more land diverted for agriculture and prawn farming, encroachment and a growing population. Soumya works with a team of 10 villagers as dozens of saplings are planted, in black grow bags, in Astaranga beach. He has also helped set up a first-of-its-kind mangrove nursery.

Cleaning up the coasts

The intrepid duo has widened their scope of work, from the Olive Ridley sea turtles and the mangroves to helping save sparrows, reviving water bodies and keeping the beaches clean, whether or not the Olive Ridley is coming home to next.

Follow Soumya on Twitter and Instagram

From dreaming of space to shining on stage: Manju Bangalore is more than Miss Oregon USA 2023

(July 12, 2023) It was in her third attempt that twenty-five-year-old Manju Bangalore won Miss Oregon USA 2023 title becoming the first South Asian woman to do so. The persistent and multifaceted youngster called the win, ‘the cherry on top’ because it gave her ‘a bit more platform’ to do the kind of work that she has been doing. Manju is a role model for young Brown girls in the US, not just as a pageant winner but as an aspiring astronaut, actor, model, activist, author and a non-profit founder who started Operation Period and Painting with Parkinson’s. The postgraduate student at the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences in the US, will be proudly representing her state, Oregon in the upcoming 72nd Miss USA pageant, slated to take place in October in Nevada. Whether it is the world of pageantry, academics, extracurricular activities or her career, Manju has displayed consistent excellence, occasionally pushing her own boundaries. Her motivations are not solely driven by the desire to enhance her resume but stems from an innate inner drive to fulfil her purpose – personal growth and to make a positive impact on the community. [caption id="attachment_31812" align="aligncenter" width="689"] Manju Bangalore being crowned

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Whether it is the world of pageantry, academics, extracurricular activities or her career, Manju has displayed consistent excellence, occasionally pushing her own boundaries. Her motivations are not solely driven by the desire to enhance her resume but stems from an innate inner drive to fulfil her purpose – personal growth and to make a positive impact on the community.

[caption id="attachment_31812" align="aligncenter" width="689"] Manju Bangalore being crowned as Miss Oregon USA[/caption]

Bagging five NASA and one White House internship

Before joining the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences, Manju graduated from the University of Oregon with a major in physics and minor in maths. An ambitious young woman who wanted a head start in her career, she was looking everywhere for internships. She ended up bagging not one or two but five NASA internships and one White house internship on science policy.

“Over the course of my five NASA internships, four of which were in the astronaut office, I contributed to propulsion research and helped design and build the cockpit displays of the Orion spacecraft,” she said. Talking about her White House experience she remarked, “One of my favourite memories was staffing a Hidden Figures screening for First Lady Michelle Obama.”

Finding inspiration in Kalpana Chawla

From the tender age of four, Manju aspired to become an astronaut. This dream had been sparked during a visit to the air and space museum in her locality. It was there that she had stumbled upon the remarkable story of Kalpana Chawla - the pioneering Indian woman who ventured into space. “Just seeing someone who looks like me doing this incredible thing made me feel like I could do it,” she remarked. Her strong work ethic and the trait of dedication and hard work comes from her parents, Phani and Geetha Bangalore, who migrated from South India and own and operate a seed-testing lab in Oregon

[caption id="attachment_31813" align="aligncenter" width="436"] Manju Bangalore at the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences[/caption]

While she was pursuing her undergraduate studies at the University of Oregon, she applied for hundreds of internships and ‘got rejected by ninety-nine percent of them’. Quite by chance she had come across NASA’s portal during her search and had discovered that there was an entire portal of NASA focused on internship. Like other applications she went ahead with applying there too without any high hopes. But to her immense joy, she was selected by NASA Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

Later, her application to work at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy was accepted too. At the White House, she met astronaut Sunita Williams who guided her to land four more internships at NASA's Johnson Space Center, in the astronaut office. “I learnt quite a lot working on the cockpit displays of the spacecraft that will go back to the moon and then to Mars one day,” she shared.

Fuelled by these experiences, Manju enrolled herself into the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences’ postgraduate programme. “The school hasn’t selected us by any means to go to space, but they are putting us through the training that’s necessary to one day go to space,” shared the happy youngster.

Operation Period and Painting with Parkinson’s

When Manju was 17, she started Operation Period to address menstrual disparities that she saw around her. The seed for starting this venture germinated in her mind when she encountered a woman in a medical store who was desperately in need of menstrual products but could not purchase them due to lack of money. Not only did Manju generously pay for her needs but came out of the store with the determination to do something about women like the one she met in the store.

[caption id="attachment_31818" align="aligncenter" width="424"] Manju Bangalore[/caption]

Through Operation Period, the youngster has made a significant impact, distributing over 300,000 menstrual products worldwide and organizing events to raise awareness about menstrual health education.

She also runs a second non-profit, Painting with Parkinson’s, to help bring meaning through art to people like her father, who suffers from the disease. The non-profit provides free painting kits and organises free painting classes to people affected by PD. “I believe that art has the power to heal, and everyone is an artist and should let that light shine,” she remarked.

From science and service to the world of pageantry

The multifaceted youngster has been participating in pageants since she was in her teens. The Oregon resident had made a couple of unsuccessful attempts in the Oregon Teen USA competition, but she remained determined. In 2017 she had managed to get successful in the local pageant, Miss Benton County USA. When she entered her twenties and could no longer participate in the Oregon teen pageant, she set herself on the Oregon Miss USA competition. It took her three attempts to finally win the crown. Overjoyed with the fruit of her persistence she shared, “The months that have followed after winning have been the best months of my life.”

[caption id="attachment_31814" align="aligncenter" width="444"] Manju Bangalore at an event[/caption]

Multiple experiences on the pageant stage have given the Global Indian a unique perspective on what it takes to be a winner. “A beauty pageant obviously has a component of outward appearance, but also in those seemingly beauty-oriented competitions, they are still looking at how poised you are, how confident on stage you are,” she said adding, “I was by no means the tiniest person on stage; I am curvier, and none of that was held against me.” In fact, Manju thinks it helped her. “It showed that I am confident in my body and who I am. It has helped me develop a thick skin, to face and filter out the detractors.” 

The Indian-origin American embraces and beholds her looks, her identity and her culture with utmost pride.

Wearing many hats

Manju has a knack for acting since her school days. Her stint in modelling and the world of pageantry led her to some good acting projects. She has guest starred on two television shows - Black is King, Depot and Animal Kingdom and is hopeful for more work on this front in future. Working in Black is King was particularly special because she got an opportunity to work with Beyoncé, the American singer and songwriter. Recently Manju turned an author with her debut children's book, You can be all the things you want to be.

[caption id="attachment_31815" align="aligncenter" width="457"] Manju Bangalore with her debut book[/caption]

Born to immigrant parents, growing up Manju realised that the world is not an equal place. Instead of being bogged down by racism that she and her family faced, the youngster grew up with the sense of responsibility towards people who are looked down upon for being different. Manju is also a supporter of black and transgender rights and goes out of her way to support these causes. She looks at the Miss Oregon USA 2023 title to be a good platform to work on these issues.

Follow Manju Bangalore on Instagram and LinkedIn

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Rhea Werner: Confronting eating disorders and body image concerns with Harvard STRIPED insights

At just 18, Australia based Rhea Werner is proving that age is no barrier to impact. With roots spanning Indian, Malaysian, and German heritage, she has channelled her multicultural perspective into powerful advocacy for mental health and eating disorder awareness. Rhea’s journey is one of courage, empathy, and vision—turning personal insights into transformative global initiatives that prioritize cultural inclusivity and sustainability. From leading groundbreaking youth campaigns to presenting her ideas on international platforms, Rhea has emerged as a trailblazer. Her efforts have earned her some of the world’s most prestigious accolades: the 2024 Diana Award, the 2023 Most Influential Asian-Australian title, and the 2022 Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year honour. Recently she was also selected to attend the Yale Young Global Scholars Program as one of four Australians out of 600 participants. [caption id="attachment_40981" align="aligncenter" width="516"] Rhea with the Australia Day Award 2022[/caption] Now poised to begin her next chapter at Harvard University—where she will major in economics and philosophy while pursuing a master’s in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies—Rhea remains dedicated to integrating diversity into healthcare and education systems. With recognition from esteemed institutions like the Australian Olympic Committee, she is serving as an inspiration for young

versity—where she will major in economics and philosophy while pursuing a master’s in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies—Rhea remains dedicated to integrating diversity into healthcare and education systems. With recognition from esteemed institutions like the Australian Olympic Committee, she is serving as an inspiration for young changemakers.

The catalyst: A lockdown realization

The 262-day Melbourne lockdown—the longest in the world—served as a turning point in Rhea’s life. “I witnessed firsthand how my peers struggled immensely with eating disorders, seemingly fading behind their screens as the isolation took its toll,” she tells Global Indian. What struck her most was the prolonged wait for treatment—up to four months—despite eating disorders having the highest mortality rate of any mental health condition.

This realization spurred her to action. “It was heartbreaking to see how our public health system was failing young people, focusing solely on retrospective treatment rather than proactive prevention. This gap in care made me realize the urgent need for systemic change,” Rhea explains. Thus began her journey of youth-led initiatives.

[caption id="attachment_40983" align="aligncenter" width="478"] Rhea at the Yale Young Global Scholars Programme[/caption]

She established Eudaimonia, a platform dedicated to addressing the systemic shortcomings she observed. By combining education and policy, the initiative focused on proactive prevention. “It’s about building a public health system that doesn’t wait for young people to fall into crisis but actively works to prevent that crisis from ever occurring,” she asserts.

The Harvard STRIPED Initiative

At just 15 years old, Rhea got selected for the Harvard STRIPED Initiative, which proved to be the cornerstone of her advocacy. Being selected for the online programme meant waking up at 1 a.m. to accommodate time zone differences between the United States and Australia. The Strategic Training Initiative for the Prevention of Eating Disorders (STRIPED) is a programme of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, designed to cultivate novel insights and strategies for prevention of eating disorders. It introduces trainees to transdisciplinary perspectives, methodologies, and theories and provide them with opportunities to join crosscutting collaborative teams.

As part of the STRIPED cohort, Rhea led the development of online youth surveys in Massachusetts and New York, which later influenced 10 nationwide legislative actions to ban diet pills linked to eating disorders.

[caption id="attachment_40984" align="aligncenter" width="744"] Rhea at the Australia and New Zealand Eating Disorder Conference as the only youth presenter[/caption]

While doing her international work, Rhea recognizing a lack of youth-led initiatives in Australia – the country she calls home, and founded the Embrace Collective Youth Initiative, collaborating with luminaries like Taryn Brumfitt, the 2023 Australian of the Year, and researchers at Melbourne University.

Pioneering change in Australia

One of Rhea’s most impactful achievements has been authoring the first-ever youth-focused, culturally attuned eating disorder education module. This module got later integrated into the Western Australian curriculum, impacting over 450,000 children. “Collaborating with Harvard to create this module ensures solutions are ingrained and sustainable, tackling the root causes rather than just the symptoms,” she notes.

Rhea’s advocacy extended further when she influenced the National Eating Disorder Strategy, securing $55 million in federal policies to support culturally and linguistically diverse youth. This included integrating Asian and First Nations perspectives into the Royal Children’s Hospital, in Australia impacting thousands of people.

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The youngster’s focus on cultural inclusivity doesn’t stop at policy. She ensured that educational materials reflected diverse backgrounds, enabling students from all walks of life to feel represented. “This effort is about more than education; it’s about giving young people a sense of belonging and understanding,” she says.

Youth empowerment and the body image summit

As head of the national Embrace youth team, Rhea has collaborated with the Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority (VCAA) to adapt health and education policies, addressing the harmful effects of Body Mass Index (BMI) practices on students. She has also led one of the world’s first body image summit, supported by a $50,000 VicHealth grant, which convened over 100 youth from across Australia.

The summit marked a significant step forward, uniting young voices to tackle body image issues. “Bringing together youth from different backgrounds helped highlight the universal nature of these challenges while fostering innovative solutions,” Rhea explains.

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A global voice: From the United Nations to rural Asia

Rhea’s impact transcends borders. Invited by the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth, she presented her work at the 2023 Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum, reaching 40,000 people. She has also made efforts to extend her education modules to rural India and Malaysia through local nonprofits addressing regional issues such as colourism’s impact on body image.

In rural communities, Rhea’s initiatives have led to enriching 790 educators and students, bridging gaps in understanding and creating dialogue around inclusivity. “Driving regional education about colourism has been deeply rewarding, knowing it can shift perceptions and empower youth to embrace their identities,” she shares.

Roots that shape a vision

Born in Germany to an Indian mother and a German father, Rhea’s upbringing was a rich blend of cultural traditions. She spent the first eight years of her life in Germany before relocating to Australia with her parents. “Growing up, my parents were deeply committed to giving me a holistic cultural upbringing. They never wanted me to feel like I had to choose between identifying as Indian or German. Instead, they celebrated both aspects of my heritage equally,” Rhea reflects.

[caption id="attachment_40986" align="aligncenter" width="658"] Rhea with her parents[/caption]

Her multicultural heritage became the foundation of her advocacy. “My Indian heritage, in particular, has had a profound influence on my worldview and my work. It allowed me to integrate perspectives from my heritage and ensure that young people from various backgrounds could see themselves reflected in these resources,” she shares. This unique perspective has driven her to embed cultural diversity into national strategies and education systems.

Rhea’s childhood was steeped in traditions that shaped her outlook. From celebrating Diwali and performing pujas to observing Christmas and Nikolaustag, her family’s inclusive approach helped her embrace diversity. “Knowing that my heritage not only shapes who I am but also inspires meaningful change in others’ lives has been incredibly fulfilling,” she says.

The backbone of balance

Balancing academics, activism, and personal life is no easy feat, but Rhea credits rowing as her anchor. “During the season, we are training up to 30 hours a week alongside school. Rowing has enhanced my immense appreciation for discipline and structure,” she shares. This disciplined approach allows her to manage her initiatives while excelling academically.

She also emphasizes the importance of collaboration. “I’m fortunate to have an incredible team of volunteers who share my passion for creating change. It’s not just about what I can achieve but about taking forward a collective vision where everyone feels empowered to make a difference,” she states.

[caption id="attachment_40988" align="aligncenter" width="546"] Rhea at the Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA)'s National Summit[/caption]

Its all about creating change…

Rhea Werner’s aspirations extend to working in finance, focusing on healthcare and agriculture, upon completion of her studies at Harvard. “Through this, I hope to develop and support companies pioneering proactive healthcare and agricultural approaches. I also hope to further reconnect with my Indian roots by working in India,” Rhea envisions.

The most rewarding aspect of Rhea’s work lies in its ripple effect. “Knowing that these efforts inspire others to start their own initiatives and drive meaningful change makes every challenge worthwhile,” she signs off.

Follow Rhea Werner on LinkedIn and Instagram

Reading Time: 5 mins

Arjun Nimmala: The First Indian-American to Be Drafted in Major League Baseball

(November 29, 2024) When Arjun Nimmala first picked up a baseball bat as a child, his father, Balu, had one simple instruction: “Drop the bat and run.” That moment, like so many others in his early life, marked the beginning of a journey that would lead him from the streets of Florida to the MLB Draft. Arjun’s path wasn’t just about playing a sport—it was about navigating a new world, blending two cultures, and building something entirely his own. In 2023, the Global Indian made history when he was selected as the 20th overall pick in the MLB Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays. This groundbreaking achievement marked him as the first-ever first-generation Indian-American to be drafted so prominently in any of the four major sports in the U.S. His selection didn’t just change the trajectory of his career—it brought visibility to a community that has long been underrepresented in American sports. The 19-year-old's rise in baseball didn’t follow a typical script. Growing up in a family with deep roots in India, he was first introduced to cricket—a sport that runs deep in the veins of his homeland. But in the United States, Arjun’s family embraced a new sport—baseball—that quickly

p in the veins of his homeland. But in the United States, Arjun’s family embraced a new sport—baseball—that quickly took hold of him. This blend of his Indian heritage and new American influences would shape the way he approached sports, pushing him to adapt, learn, and grow in ways he never expected.

A Family's New Beginning

Arjun Nimmala was born in Tampa, Florida, to Balu and Neeru, who had made the bold decision to leave Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, in 2002 and move to the United States. Neither had any connections to the U.S., and they had no idea how challenging their journey would be. But they were determined to make a better life for themselves and their children. Cricket was a significant part of Arjun’s childhood, a bond he shared with his father, who played the sport back in India. “My dad used to play cricket when he was younger,” Arjun recalls. “It was the first sport we knew, so naturally, that’s where I started.”

However, life in the U.S. was different, and so were the opportunities. When Arjun Nimmala was introduced to baseball, it wasn’t an easy transition. “At first, it was strange,” he says. “Cricket is so different from baseball, but my dad saw the similarities and thought it would be a good fit for me.” Though his father didn’t know much about baseball, he recognized the connection between the two sports and supported Arjun’s new interest.

Choosing Baseball: A New Path

By the time Arjun Nimmala was 12, he was faced with a decision that would shape his future: continue with cricket, or fully commit to baseball. “I was a batsman in cricket, and I loved the idea of hitting in baseball too. That’s when I knew I wanted to make baseball my focus.” Despite his cricket background, Arjun chose to pursue baseball, and his commitment to the sport paid off as he quickly became a standout player.

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His family, though unfamiliar with the American sports system, supported his decision to follow baseball. “We didn’t know much about the recruiting process,” Arjun admits. “But we learned quickly, and I just went with it.” His dedication to the sport pushed him through various milestones, leading to his recognition as one of the top prospects in the country.

The Rise to Prominence

Arjun’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. Throughout high school, his skills blossomed, and he quickly became a key figure in Florida’s competitive baseball scene. His combination of power, bat speed, and instinct for the game set him apart from other players his age. By the time he was 16, Arjun had become one of the most promising young baseball players in the nation, and being an Indian-American made him a rare breed. His abilities on the field earned him a commitment to Florida State University (FSU) at just 14 years old, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

But it wasn’t just his on-field talent that caught the attention of scouts. Arjun’s ability to handle pressure and remain focused on his goals made him an appealing prospect. “In baseball, you fail a lot,” Arjun says. “It’s part of the game. What matters is how you respond. I’ve always tried to stay calm and learn from every mistake.”

As his reputation grew, so did the expectations. In 2023, Arjun Nimmala was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays with the 20th overall pick in the MLB Draft. This historic selection made Arjun the first-ever first-generation Indian-American to be drafted so prominently in any of the four major U.S. sports, solidifying his place in history.

The MLB Draft: A Groundbreaking Moment

Arjun’s selection by the Blue Jays was a groundbreaking moment—not just for him, but for Indian-American athletes in general. “I was honored to be the first Indian-American to be drafted like this,” Arjun reflects. “But it wasn’t just about me—it was about showing the next generation of kids that they can make it, too. We’re capable of so much more than people think.”

In the same year, Arjun’s rise to prominence continued. He made history as one of the most highly touted shortstop prospects in the draft, earning comparisons to players like Carlos Correa. His raw power and bat speed caught the eyes of MLB scouts, with one remarking, “He has the potential to hit 30-plus home runs a season.” Arjun’s defensive abilities at shortstop were also recognized, though some scouts worried that his growing strength might lead him to outgrow the position and eventually shift to third base.

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Despite these concerns, Arjun’s focus remained on improving every aspect of his game. He continued to develop his approach to hitting, his fielding, and his mental game—all while staying grounded in the values his family instilled in him.

The Mentorship: Francisco Lindor

One of the most pivotal figures in Arjun’s development was New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor, a player Arjun has admired for years. “Lindor’s been my favorite player,” Arjun says. “I love the way he plays—he has fun with the game, and that’s something I try to carry with me.” Lindor’s mentorship went beyond just technical advice—it was about mindset and approach. “He taught me to stay calm, no matter what’s happening around me,” Arjun explains. “In baseball, things don’t always go your way, but you have to keep your focus and stay true to yourself.”

Lindor’s example of staying confident and grounded resonated deeply with Arjun, helping him navigate the intense spotlight of being a top prospect. “It’s about working hard, but also about being smart and knowing how to handle pressure,” Arjun says. With Lindor’s guidance, Arjun became not only a better player but a more mentally tough one.

A Future Full of Potential

As Arjun Nimmala enters the next phase of his career, his accomplishments continue to pile up. After being selected by the Blue Jays, he quickly made his presence felt in the minor leagues, where his development has been closely watched. Though his early games showed promise, Arjun’s ability to adjust quickly has been his strongest asset. After a brief stint to work on his swing mechanics, Arjun returned to the field with a refined approach and made an immediate impact.

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Now, as Arjun’s career continues to unfold, the question is no longer whether he will succeed—it’s how far he will go. His selection as the 20th overall pick is just the beginning, but for Arjun, the work is far from done. “I’m just focused on getting better every day,” he says. “The goal is to make it to the big leagues and help the team win. I know it’s going to take time, but I’m willing to put in the work.”

Arjun’s story is a matter of pride for Indians everywhere. “I want to make India proud,” Arjun says. “I hope one day, people in India can watch me play and know that we can compete at the highest level, just like anyone else.” With each step, the young baseball star is not only building his own career but paving the way for future generations of Indian-American athletes to follow in his footsteps.

Follow Arjun Nimmala's MLB journey on Instagram.

Cheers! Bartender Aashie Bhatnagar bags People’s Choice Award at World Class 2023

(October 18, 2023) After an intense, two-day competition, with 12 top bartenders around the world mixing and stirring their way to the top prize, it was a big moment for the Indian bartending community when Aashie Bhatnagar was named the winner of the prestigious People’s Choice Award in World Class. One of the world’s premier bartending competitions, World Class 2023 took place in Sao Paulo in September this year, where Aashie represented India. On Day 1 of the competition, Aashie emerged as the crowd favourite from among an elite group of 50 bartenders, earning her spot in the top 12, as the only female finalist, before going on to win the coveted People’s Choice Award. [caption id="attachment_33619" align="aligncenter" width="513"] Aashie Bhatnagar[/caption] Aashie expressed her gratitude to the Indian bartending community for their support through her journey, beginning from the moment she won the Indian finals, all the way to representing the country at Sao Paulo, Brazil. “I have been overwhelmed with messages and shoutouts, offers for help and so on. Knowing they were watching from back home, and that I could make them proud, was a driving force for me. I am very grateful for the love I received and I

e moment she won the Indian finals, all the way to representing the country at Sao Paulo, Brazil. “I have been overwhelmed with messages and shoutouts, offers for help and so on. Knowing they were watching from back home, and that I could make them proud, was a driving force for me. I am very grateful for the love I received and I am really very happy I could do this for you all.”

Getting inspired

It was coming across images of Jeet Rana, who had represented India at Miami in a previous World Class edition, that had ignited the fire in Aashie to fetch a laurel like him.

“It ignited a dream within me—a dream that would shape my life in ways I couldn't have imagined,” shared the bartender who spent countless hours honing her craft at her work station, fixing errors, and pushing herself to become better in her craft. In all this endeavour she garnered immense support of team members of Cobbler & Crew – her workplace in Pune, and Mayur Marne, her colleague who has been her consistent and greatest supporter.

[caption id="attachment_33620" align="aligncenter" width="580"] Aashie Bhatnagar with Mayur Marne[/caption]

Fruit of persistence

Winning World Class India had been Aashie’s dream for four years. She fought hard and hustled right from the first day she stepped behind the bars to achieve this dream of hers.

Her journey with World Class started in 2021, when she competed with several talented bartenders from across India to represent the country on the global platform. Although she made it to the finals of the India competition, she eventually returned home with a dream still unfulfilled. Determined not to let this setback mark the end of her aspirations, she carried on training to win her fraternity’s most coveted trophy.

This year, after competing in several rounds of challenges that tested her mixology skills, creativity, and knowledge, she was able to emerge India’s representative to World Class, winning the title of World Class India Bartender of the Year 2023. She took a significant stride forward by bagging the People’s Choice award at the global platform, proving that persistence pays.

While announcing Aashie’s achievements, her employer Cobbler & Crew shared on social media, “When Aashie joined our team, unlike other bartenders, her life goal wasn’t to open her own bar - She wanted to represent India at World Class and last night her dream became a reality."

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The 2023 World Class Global Bartender of the Year title was claimed by Jacob Martin from Canada.

Journey of representing India

Being chosen as India's representative in the global competition was no small accomplishment. Following months of preparation, Aashie and 14 other bartenders endured a weekend of stiff competition.

The event was judged by a panel from around the world, including Manu Chandra, Ashish Kapur, Jenna Ba, Millie Tang and Yangdup Lama, with Aashie emerging as the World Class India Bartender of the Year 2023. “As I stand behind the bar, shaker in hand, I find myself in a world of flavours and stories. Each cocktail I craft is an expression of my soul, a piece of art meant to be savoured and enjoyed,” said the ace bartender, who is one of the stars at Pune’s Cobbler & Crew.

From Uttarakhand to the craft of mixology

Cobbler & Crew holds a special place in Aashie's heart, as she cherishes her role as an innovation artist - the title of the position highlights the vital significance her workplace adds to the bartender's craft.

[caption id="attachment_33622" align="aligncenter" width="635"] Aashie Bhatnagar[/caption]

Aashie's career began as a guest service associate at the Oberoi Gurgaon’s bar. After that, she served as a bartender at the Kimon Club and The Ritz-Carlton in Pune. The Dehradun-girl graduated from the Kukreja Institute of Hotel Management Dehradun, and the Bar Academy of Doon.

2023 has been a year of awards for her as she also won the ‘Mixologist of the Year’ title at Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2023.

Follow Aashie Bhatnagar on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn

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