Rama Krishna Sangem
IIM Shillong successfully concluded the third edition of its flagship International Week (I-Week), held from July 1 to 6, 2025, the event brought together 31 international participants from Malaysia, Thailand, Greece, Nepal, and Vietnam, reinforcing the institute’s commitment to nurturing globally competent leaders grounded in Indian ethos.
Themed “The Global-Indian Mosaic: Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Impact,” the week combined high-impact academic learning with deep cultural and regional immersion. A distinguished lineup of entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and academic experts from five continents delivered sessions on innovation, inclusive leadership, sustainability, and indigenous knowledge systems, said a press release from IIM Shillong.
In her inaugural address, Prof. Naliniprava Tripathy, Director (In-Charge), emphasized I-Week’s transformative role in preparing socially responsible, globally aware leaders rooted in Indian values. Prof. Teidorlang Lyngdoh, Chairperson of External Relations, highlighted the program’s essence as a platform that builds bridges—connecting not only countries and communities but also ideas and intent.
Real world insights
Several sessions led by industry professionals and entrepreneurs offered rich real-world insights. Arijit Sen, Vice President – Sales & Marketing at Pee Safe, shared his experience in building challenger brands and navigating the evolving D2C landscape.
Sumanta Samadder, CHRO of Crescent Foundry, presented a forward-looking perspective on human capital strategy, organizational culture, and the future of work. Rimjim Deka and Partha Kakati, co-founders of Little Box India, narrated their journey of building a regional, purpose-driven startup that draws from the cultural ethos of Northeast India. Priyanka Kaushik, founder of Noi Mohi, inspired participants with her grassroots approach to building a women-led social enterprise anchored in sustainability and community engagement.
The academic segment featured enriching sessions by Prof. Rohit Dwivedi on inclusive entrepreneurship, Prof. Sanjeeb Kakoty on indigenous leadership through storytelling, Prof. Sheetal Deendayal on intercultural management, Prof. Rohit Joshi on critical thinking and adaptive leadership, and Christine and Gerard Farias on ethical leadership and emotional intelligence. Prof. Basav Roychoudhury led a workshop on data-driven innovation, while Prof. Sanjoy Mukherjee explored ancient Indian wisdom as a lens for modern decision-making.
Local culture & heritage
Participants explored various cultural and natural landmarks across Meghalaya, gaining firsthand experience of the state’s rich ecological beauty and heritage. A highlight was the visit to EriWeave, an ethical silk enterprise founded by Iaishah Rymbai and featured on Shark Tank India, showcasing sustainable entrepreneurship and traditional craftsmanship. To further deepen the cultural engagement, participants were treated to a curated Northeast Indian culinary experience — a traditional Khasi lunch at Meiramew Café, offering a unique blend of regional flavors and insights into the storytelling, diversity, and sustainability embedded in local food traditions.
The week concluded with a joyful Cultural Night, featuring Northeast folk performance — the Assamese Bihu dance — alongside regional music, cuisine, and shared storytelling, celebrating unity in diversity and the enduring spirit of collaboration, said the press release.
