Indian rainbow organisation honoured for community advocacy in Aotearoa

A prominent Indian rainbow organisation has been celebrated for its commitment to advocacy at one of the country’s leading community award ceremonies. Indian Origin Pride New Zealand received the honour at the 12th Annual Indian Newslink Sports, Community, Arts and Culture Awards held in Auckland this July, as reported by RNZ on 7 August 2026. The organisation, which was launched in 2022 to support members of the Indian community who identify as part of the rainbow community, was among more than 40 prize-winners across six categories. Arrun Soma, co-founder and chair of Indian Origin Pride New Zealand, noted the particular importance of being recognised by the Indian community itself. He described the moment as a matter of privilege and pride, stating that the recognition shows the community can stand up for and support its most vulnerable members. Venkat Raman, editor of Indian Newslink, said the awards serve to motivate people across Aotearoa by recognizing achievement and fostering cultural exchange. He noted that the inclusive spirit of the event helps shape a more connected and motivated nation. The accolade follows a significant milestone for Indian Origin Pride last year, when it became the first ethnic organisation to receive a Community and Advocacy prize at the New Zealand Rainbow Excellence Awards. Soma encouraged other community associations and sports clubs across Aotearoa to engage with Indian Origin Pride to help make their spaces more inclusive for their "rainbow Indian whānau." The ceremony was held during the same month as the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Awards, where other community leaders were also celebrated. These included Una Jagose, New Zealand’s first female solicitor-general, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame, and the Dawoodi Bohras of New Zealand, who were named Kiwi Indian Community Organisation of the Year.