Sharjah sets an example to the world, says Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra participates in a discussion at the government's International Communication Forum in Sharjah.

Imran Mojib, Special correspondent

Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra does not need to be shown. The bodace actress wore many hats, from a provocative and manipulative woman in "Aitraaz" to an autistic girl in "Barfi" to a fiery boxer in "Mary Kom", among other roles. She has also gone global with a key role on the small screen with the American television series "Quantico", where she plays FBI agent Alex Parrish. Chopra has also ventured into music and film production.

"I'm not an ordinary star. Everything I do is sort of unique, "she noted in an interview not long ago.

La Rara Avis took the road less traveled, forging its own path.

No wonder his fans in India and the United Arab Emirates have a lot of good will for this former UNICEF goodwill ambassador.

The comforting hospitality of Sharjah toppled the actress, who was a guest speaker at the two-day government's International Communication Forum. She said: "Speaking of the vital role of communication within governments and between countries, and taking it to the next level by hosting the International Forum on Communication with Governments (IGCF), Sharjah sets an amazing example for the rest of the world, strengthen its references as a dynamic cultural center. "

The opening day of the ninth edition of IGCF Wednesday at the Sharjah Expo Center, she remarked, "Bringing so many leaders from around the world to this forum to lead a conversation about what governments can do to promote intercultural understanding is an incredible initiative for which Sharjah should be commended," said said Chopra. .

Chopra led the discussion on the role of visual media in promoting positive cultural understanding in a session titled "Why does the screen have so much impact on the screen?" # 39; public opinion? "

Priyanka Chopra explained a point during the session which was moderated by Raya Abi Rached, television presenter.

"Society and entertainment are a mirror image of each other and share a symbiotic relationship," she said, adding that "today’s movies are shattering." stereotypes and the entertainment industry has a huge influence, having the ability to impact people beyond its own borders. "

As technology and digital media platforms make the world smaller and more interconnected, now is the best time to promote us culturally, said the actor, who has starred in over 60 films.

"I really believe that we have to stand up and dig our heels to demand the kind of work that we want to be represented. We have to go there and make the effort to culturally shape the roots we come from because the world is a melting pot of cultures. "

Discussing how social media – originally intended to bring the world together has also become a tool for negative propaganda, the superstar said: "This is an important time for governments and the entertainment industry who come together to teach people about the different cultures of the world. world – not the differences, but the commonalities.

“Being different doesn't have to be scary; being different should pique your curiosity, ”she said.

The session was moderated by Raya Abi Rached, famous journalist and TV presenter who is best known as the host of the biggest celebrity film show in the Arab region, the flagship of MBC2. Scoop With Raya, And for co-presenting the blockbuster talent show, Arabs have talent, on MBC4.

Chopra, who has 50.2 million followers on Instagram, said that celebrities around the world can use their influence to foster a better understanding of the difficult issues facing humanity today. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she described how her visit to refugee camps in Jordan and the individual stories of children and their families that she shared with his supporters led to increased media coverage, sparking conversations and actions around the subject.

“It’s the positive power of social media. As celebrities, we are the channel for advancing these messages and magnifying the voices of people who don't have it. This is where our social responsibility comes into play, and we should not ignore it, "she said.

IGCF is organized by the International Government Communication Center (IGCC), a subsidiary of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), under the patronage of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah. IGCF 2020 is coming to an end Thursday. It focuses on four pillars: "Integrating a culture of engagement within government", "Technology as a community catalyst", "Communication through culture" and "Holistic well-being".