Event Overview
On December 29, at the iconic Corner Hotel in Richmond, The Leader Speaks hosted a powerful evening of storytelling and leadership with cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar and platform founder Divesh Sareen.
Timed during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Melbourne, this special event brought together attendees – from business and media leaders to students and migrants – to hear from two voices who exemplify purpose-driven leadership.
The evening also welcomed notable guests:
- His Excellency Shri Gopal Baglay (High Commissioner of India)
- Dr Sushil Kumar (Consul-General of India in Melbourne)
- Molina Asthana (National Chair for Sport, Art & Culture (AIBC))
Program Flow
| Segment | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Welcome & Acknowledgement | Opened with dignitaries and community acknowledgment |
| Keynote by Divesh Sareen | Shared his journey from India to Australia, the inspiration behind The Leader Speaks, and the importance of identity, belonging, and using your voice as a leader |
| Live Conversation with Sunil Gavaskar | A rich dialogue exploring leadership under pressure, cricket wisdom, and lessons beyond the pitch |
| Audience Q&A | Real questions on mindset, change, and life after sport |
| Future Announcements | Divesh introduced upcoming leadership projects and his next book – Migrants Life |
| Networking & Wrap-up | Guests mingled with leaders and shared their own stories |
Takeaways
- Leadership Under Pressure
Sunil Gavaskar’s reflections on playing fast bowling without a helmet became a symbol of calm decision-making and personal courage.
“If you prepare well enough, fear disappears.”
- Teamwork is Legacy
He shared how winning partnerships came from trust and shared goals, not just talent. These same principles apply to boardrooms and classrooms.
- The Migrant Experience as Strength
Divesh Sareen spoke about growing up in India, moving to Australia, and shaping identity across two cultures.
“India shaped my roots. Australia gave me a platform to grow and contribute.”
- Leading the Next Chapter
The discussion shifted toward mentorship, humility, and how to lead with purpose even after peak career moments. The message: your story doesn’t end at success – that’s where real leadership begins.
Highlights
Thank You
Special thanks to:
- Sponsors: Custom Web Apps, Sunrise2Sunrise, Augment Real Estate, Aussizz Group, Renewd.com.au, Shivam Printing, Foot Solutions, After the WHY, The Indian Mate, G’Day India, Migrants Life, Migrants Circle, Indian Traders Association
- Our community and media partners
- The hardworking volunteers and crew
- Everyone who attended and brought their voice to the conversation
What’s Next?
The Leader Speaks continues to grow – bringing legendary voices to new audiences.
The next upcoming event will be with Aaron Finch. For more information – Click here
Divesh Sareen’s new book is launching in 2026 – and you’re invited to be part of it through Migrants Life.
