As the popular saying goes, human beings rely on connections to survive. This can be considered when an individual moves to a new country. You step into a new land and culture. Connecting with your community in these places ensures a smoother transition. They inculcate a sense of warmth and comfort even while you are thousands of kilometres away from it. This blog by The Affordable Store will help you connect with Indian communities in your new country through five easy ways.

Cultural Festivals and Events

This is one of the best ways to quickly tap into Indian communities in newer countries. India’s festival calendar is busy almost all year round with festivals like Diwali, Navratri, and Holi being celebrated. These events provide an opportunity to meet new people, dance and savour authentic Indian cuisines. In this digital age, Indian communities outside the country have become more vocal and welcoming wanting newer people to join. Look for community centres, Indian organisations and other institutions in your area that host these events. Through these, you will experience fun and new interactions all while being connected to you roots!

Join Social Media Groups and Online Forums

Social Media is one of the biggest tools you can have to connect with these Indian communities. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram and Telegram have ever-growing group chats that one can join to interact with the Indian communities. One subcategory you should keep in mind while joining can be of Indian expats. These individuals, just like you, have moved to a new country globally. They have similar aspirations and challenges as you. Joining these groups brings connectivity and belongingness helping you to adapt to the place easily.

The interactions can include talks on get-togethers, general questions and even answers to the smallest of your queries about your community.

Language and Culture Classes

Not only will you learn and furnish your knowledge about your language, but you will also have the opportunity to meet newer people from different communities. Make sure to enroll yourself for these classes. You can also join culture classes such as culinary, dancing, and traditional music. They often attract people who want to learn the Indian culture, resulting in like-minded interactions.

Visit Indian Grocery and Restaurants

Try exploring Indian groceries and restaurants in your area. Food has always proven to be a great connector. The staff and locals often know about the ongoings of the Indian community in the local area. Befriending them will make you aware. The staff and locals have proven to be friendly in countless Indian stores. It will also make you more knowledgeable about the grocery essentials, Indian and general cuisines and much more.

Community Service

Community service is one of the best ways to give back to the community, and in this case, engaging with communities. Indian communities all around the world are popular for their selfless services and the diaspora is no different. This can include services such as education, healthcare and community development. Many organisations also introduce global and Indian-specific projects. These can include fundraising events and general awareness campaigns. Volunteer for these community services in your nearby organisation through NGOs, Gurudwaras and other centres. You will meet newer people, build meaningful relationships and become a better and a more noble human being in the process.

Professional Networking

Networking with Indian professionals in new countries will not only help in your career growth but also meet ambitious, driven Individuals. Attending online events, conferences, and seminars can help you learn and grow. Indian diaspora has become larger than ever and has established a strong foot in businesses outside the country. Not only will you learn about a plethora of new industries and sectors but also meet people with different thought processes and strategies, widening your knowledge and helping you in your career. Platforms like LinkedIn have proven to be one of the best in terms of professional networking.

As they say, you are a product of your environment. Be mindful of the individuals you meet through these ways. Meeting them will help you grow in innumerable ways and foster connectivity and diversity! Happy Travelling!