Nineteen-year-old Nidhi Gautam, a student from Karnataka, was given the unique opportunity to serve as the British High Commissioner to India for a day.
Gautam, who is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in history and geography from Miranda House, Delhi, was selected as part of the British High Commission’s annual ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ competition, held in celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child on Oct. 11.
The initiative, launched in 2017, aims to empower young women by providing them with leadership experiences and exposing them to diplomatic work. This year, Nidhi was chosen from over 140 applicants across India for her passion for cultural diplomacy, foreign policy, and her strong leadership potential.
Her packed day included a breakfast briefing with senior leadership on the UK-India bilateral relationship and the Technology Security Initiative announced in July. Nidhi also visited the National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, where she explored new innovations designed to improve the lives of differently abled people. She later toured the National Institute of Immunology, gaining insights into the latest advancements in vaccine technology.
Reflecting on her day as High Commissioner, Nidhi shared, “Being the British High Commissioner for a day was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on me. From assistive technologies to discussions on solar energy and femtech, each interaction underscored how technology creates tangible social benefits.”
Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India, who stepped into the role of Deputy High Commissioner for the day, expressed her admiration for Nidhi’s performance. “It was fantastic to learn from Nidhi. Our conversations, from the UK-India Technology Security Initiative to the role of young women in tackling global challenges, were inspiring,” Cameron stated. “Empowering women and girls, in both the UK and around the world, is a key priority for us, and an integral part of our partnership with India.”
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