Ikshu Shinde, a Class 12 student of Dhirubhai Ambani International School (DAIS), has become the first Indian to be selected as a Global Future Scholar and Diplomat by the Garibay Institute for Soft Power and Public Diplomacy, USA.
The prestigious recognition is awarded to young leaders demonstrating intellectual excellence, leadership potential and a commitment to democratic values. As part of the global cohort, Ikshu will receive advanced training in international diplomacy, negotiation, policy analysis and cross-cultural leadership, guided by experts and former diplomats. She will also take part in simulated diplomatic forums, leadership studios and policy labs, preparing for future roles in global governance.
The Garibay Institute, a US-based think tank focused on advancing soft-power diplomacy, praised Ikshu for “strengthening democratic participation at the grassroots” and for balancing academic achievement with cultural expression.
Ikshu has led voter-awareness campaigns reaching more than 8,000 citizens across Mumbai, and has organised initiatives supporting senior citizens and intergenerational engagement. Alongside her policy work, she is an accomplished dancer, holding a Professional Dance Diploma from The Danceworx and a Classical Dance Diploma (Kathak) from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal. She heads the DAIS Dance Club and is a member of the International Dance Council (CID–UNESCO).
While accepting the honour, Ikshu, who traces her lineage to Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar and comes from a family committed to social service, said she was grateful for the recognition and vowed to uphold the trust placed in her.
