In a world driven by constant change, shifting identities, and modern distractions, it’s easy to forget the power of where we come from. But traditions — yes, those often-overlooked rituals passed from grandparents to parents, and from parents to us — are not just cultural remnants. They are bridges. Bridges that connect generations, shape community identity, and preserve values that outlast time. Today, I want to speak with you — not as a founder, not as a global entrepreneur, but as someone who’s walked the road between heritage and hustle. I want you to pause, just for a moment, and think about the traditions you grew up with. A meal you shared. A prayer whispered by an elder. A song, a dress, a celebration. Did it feel small? Ordinary? Let me tell you — it was anything but. The Invisible Threads That Hold Us Together Traditions are not routines; they are reminders of who we are. They are the invisible threads that weave us into the fabric of a larger community — sometimes without us even realizing it. Every cultural ritual, language, dish, celebration, and family value carries the essence of history, identity, and belonging. And in a time where digital noise often replaces meaningful connection, traditions remain our anchor. When we pass them on — to our children, to the youth, to the next generation — we are not just preserving a practice. We are passing on love, strength, and direction. We are saying, “You belong. You are not alone. Your roots run deep.” Why This Matters More Than Ever Modern society is moving fast. But ask yourself: Are we truly connected? Or are we just online? We are facing an era of cultural dilution. Many young people are growing up unaware of their ancestral strengths. And when roots are lost, identity begins to fade. This is the silent crisis we must address — now, not tomorrow. As leaders, educators, parents, and change-makers, we must become the guardians of our traditions. Because when a child sees their mother wear traditional attire with pride, or hears a lullaby in their native tongue, it gives them an emotional roadmap. A sense of place in a disoriented world. Let me ask you this — when was the last time you practiced a tradition with intention? Not out of obligation, but out of respect? Reclaiming and Rebuilding: Start Now Here’s what I challenge you to do today — not next week, not someday. Today. Revisit Your Roots – Talk to your elders. Ask about your heritage. Record their stories. Learn about the “why” behind your traditions. Share, Don’t Just Follow – Teach your children. Invite your neighbors. Create community events. Let the younger generation see tradition as living, not fading. Blend Tradition with Modernity – Host cultural dinners. Start storytelling circles. Celebrate heritage days in your schools or businesses. There is room for both innovation and tradition. Protect What Matters – Advocate for cultural education. Support policies and organizations that keep languages, crafts, and stories alive. This is how you become a bridge between generations. This is how communities stay strong. The Legacy We Leave Behind Remember, a tradition dies not when it’s broken — but when it is forgotten. Our duty is not perfection. It is preservation. You may think, “I’m just one person.” But so was every ancestor who kept a story alive, who protected a ritual, who taught a value that shaped a child’s life. You don’t need to be a cultural historian to be a guardian of heritage. You only need heart, respect, and a voice willing to speak. Let’s not wait until our traditions are reduced to museum exhibits and faded photos. Let’s bring them to life — in our homes, our schools, our businesses, and our everyday lives. Because when you honor your traditions, you honor your ancestors, your identity, your community — and most of all, the future.
Embracing Diversity: A Core Value of 28COE for a Thriving Society
A Vision Rooted in Experience The 28COE Core Values are not just words on paper—they are the guiding principles that have shaped the BAB Group of Companies for nearly two decades. These values, deeply embedded in our organization, serve as a blueprint for sustainable growth, ethical leadership, and community-driven success. One of the most powerful and transformative among them is diversity—a principle that goes beyond inclusion to fuel innovation, progress, and unity. As the Founder & CEO of Digital Kashmir and with over two decades of experience in entrepreneurship, I, Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, have witnessed firsthand how diversity shapes industries, builds stronger teams, and drives business success. The ability to embrace and leverage diverse perspectives is a defining factor in the resilience and longevity of any organization, and it is a pillar of our 28COE Core Values. Diversity: The Lifeblood of Progress In a world where divisions seem to deepen, diversity is not just a concept but a necessity. It is the force that transforms stagnation into evolution and barriers into bridges. The 28COE Core Values recognize that organizations—and societies—thrive when diversity is embraced at all levels. Why Diversity Matters in Business and Society Innovation Thrives in DiversityThe best ideas emerge when different minds come together. Diversity fosters creativity by bringing unique perspectives, experiences, and thought processes to the table. At BAB Group of Companies, we’ve seen how diverse teams drive groundbreaking solutions and create unparalleled opportunities in global markets. Empathy and UnderstandingDiversity is not just about representation; it’s about inclusion, respect, and equity. When we actively listen to different voices, we cultivate a culture of understanding and empathy—breaking down walls of prejudice and fostering a work environment where everyone feels valued. Strength in UnityImagine a world where everyone thought and acted the same—progress would be impossible. Diversity is not about mere tolerance; it is about celebrating differences and leveraging them for collective strength. This is at the heart of 28COE Core Values, ensuring that our global network of entrepreneurs builds solutions that reflect the needs of a diverse world. The Marketplace of IdeasBusinesses that embrace diversity gain a competitive advantage. They tap into wider markets, attract top talent, and stay ahead of trends. This aligns with Markative Domains, FejiRun, andSIB Infotech, where we integrate diverse perspectives into our business strategies to remain leaders in our respective industries. Actionable Steps to Champion Diversity Diversity is not a passive ideal—it requires deliberate action. Here’s how we can all contribute to fostering diversity in our organizations and communities: Listen and Learn: Engage with different perspectives. Understand the unique challenges faced by underrepresented groups. Amplify Diverse Voices: Use your platform to elevate voices that have historically been marginalized. Support diverse creators, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Lead by Example: As leaders, it’s our responsibility to build inclusive environments where every individual can thrive. Take Action: Implement policies that promote diversity, support diverse businesses, and challenge systemic barriers. Diversity as a Cornerstone of the 28COE Legacy At BAB Group of Companies, diversity is not just a buzzword—it is a core value that shapes our vision, decisions, and leadership. Through 28COE Core Values, we are committed to fostering inclusivity in business,education, and entrepreneurship. We believe that true success lies in collaboration, mutual respect, and the celebration of differences. Let’s not just talk about diversity—let’s live it, practice it, and make it a driving force for a better future. Together, we can build a world where diversity is not just tolerated but truly celebrated