A platform for ideas and identity
Augustin’s keynote highlighted the inspiration behind The Global Indian, a book that serves both as a narrative and a guide for redefining what it means to succeed as an Indian on the world stage.
He also spoke about the qualities that have become synonymous with Indians abroad. “Indians are hustlers in the best sense of the word,” he noted. “It’s about determination, resourcefulness, and entrepreneurship. Those qualities define the global Indian and make them an asset wherever they go.”
Reframing global perceptions
The discussion turned to the global perception of Indians — from technology leaders like Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella to doctors, engineers, and entrepreneurs who have left their mark across industries. Augustin acknowledged that while stereotypes and challenges exist, the Indian brand has risen because of consistent reliability and excellence across generations.
“The world needs talent — elite skills in great numbers — and India is the only place producing it at scale,” Augustin emphasized. “Whether it’s neurosurgeons, AI innovators, or engineers, this talent takes decades to build. The global Indian is central to solving the most complex problems of our time.”
The event culminated with the official unveiling of The Global Indian by Gulf News Interim CEO Vijay Vaghela, alongside Augustin. Each attendee received a personalised signed copy of the book, creating a memorable close to an evening that combined thought leadership with cultural reflection.
With the UAE home to more than 3.5 million Indians, the themes of The Global Indian resonate powerfully in the region. The book speaks not only to first-generation migrants who have built their lives abroad but also to younger generations navigating questions of identity, belonging, and ambition in a globalized world.
For Augustin, the launch was both a milestone and a call to action. “Becoming a global Indian is a journey,” he said. “And this book is an invitation to reflect, redefine, and rise to that identity.”
