Lara Zijl 
Adelaide, Australia — A proud moment for New Zealand’s Indian community unfolded at the World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) 2025 in Adelaide, where long-serving delegates were honoured for their exceptional dedication to advancing a global Hindu economic network. Among the distinguished recipients was Professor Guna Magesan of Rotorua, celebrated for over a decade of tireless leadership within the movement.
Prof Magesan received a Certificate of Recognition from Swami Vigyananand, Founder of WHEF. The citation praised his “exceptional commitment” and “unwavering support” over 13 years — marked by the highest number of global conference attendances — in pursuit of WHEF’s vision of Making Society Prosperous.
Joining him on the honours list were veteran contributors from India, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, each recognised for sustained service. Swami Vigyananand lauded their efforts, noting that WHEF’s enduring strength lies in its karyakartas — selfless professionals and volunteers who have built the movement through consistent action and values-driven leadership.
“The World Hindu Economic Forum is more than an event — it’s a global movement rooted in Arthik Samriddhi (economic prosperity),” he said. “Today we honour those whose steadfast contributions continue to strengthen our collective vision.”
A Decade of Dedication
Since its inception, WHEF has staged influential global gatherings in cities such as Hong Kong, Bangkok, New Delhi, London, Los Angeles, Nairobi, Chicago, and Mumbai, uniting Hindu entrepreneurs, economists, and professionals to collaborate for a globally prosperous Hindu society.
Prof Magesan’s own journey has been defined by service. In 2014, after early retirement as Professor and Head of Environmental Science at Fiji National University, he dedicated a year to voluntary service in India — serving as honorary CEO of WHEF and helping to organise the inaugural World Hindu Congress, which attracted over 1,800 delegates from more than 60 countries.
Since then, he has been a constant presence in the movement, often arriving weeks ahead of conferences to assist with strategic planning and on-site operations.
A Celebration of Unity and Vision
The Adelaide recognition ceremony was both a celebration of individual commitment and a reaffirmation of WHEF’s shared purpose: to foster economic empowerment through collaboration, ethical leadership, and global solidarity.
“This is a powerful moment that highlights the reach, unity, and resilience of our community,” an event host remarked. “These leaders exemplify seva — selfless service — and the enduring values of our Dharma.”
ENDS
Media Contact:
Hindu Economic Forum New Zealand
Email: hindu.nz@gmail.com
