Umkomaas youth activist and storyteller, Ekta Somera, continues to make her community proud with her many achievements.

She was recognised at the Shantik Foundation’s Hindu of the Year Awards at Kendra Hall in Durban on August 21, where she was nominated in the Women, Youth and Children’s category.

Ekta received a Certificate of Special Recognition.

The Shantik Foundation is a community-focused organisation that seeks to promote Hindu values and recognise people whose work reflects dharma, service, leadership and a commitment to uplifting others. Its Hindu of the Year Awards provide a platform to acknowledge individuals who make a difference within their communities.

The event was attended by members of the Durban Hindu community and brought together individuals to recognise those who are living by their Hindu values and making a difference in the lives of others.

Ekta described the evening as a celebration of Hindu culture, community and the values that continue to shape generations.

It was also a reminder to her of the richness of Hindu heritage and the importance of keeping those values alive.

“The Shantik Foundation emphasised that the event was not about competition; it was about recognising individuals who are living by their Hindu values and inspiring others to do the same,” she explained.

“Our greatest achievements are only as great as our character. If who we are within does not align with who we appear to be, then we have not accomplished anything.”

The Umkomaas youngster’s work is rooted in a belief that ‘what we are given should not simply be kept for ourselves’.

“I’ve always believed that success means little if we don’t use it to make life a little better for someone else,” she said.

“I think that’s something I’ve come to understand more deeply through my Hindu values. We all have something to contribute, and sometimes our dharma is to recognise what we have been given and find a way to give back.”

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