Seychelles has been in the news a lot recently with the visit of our Honourable Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi as the National Day Guest of Honor: PM Modi attended Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee Independence celebrations as the Chief Guest.
I have been extremely fortunate to have served in the Seychelles for 14 years as Head of Communications of the Seychelles Marketing Board where the President of the Republic was the Chairman of the State-owned Parastatal. The Seychelles is truly stunning in its natural beauty but what adds to it all are the warm and genuine Seychellois and their naturally gifted amazing mindset
A 14-year residence in the Paradise islands of Seychelles, for nature lovers like Gayatri, my wife and me was indeed a true honeymoon. We left for our 2-year contracted assignment within a year of getting married. When we got off the British Airways aircraft, the lush green hills, blue azure waters of the ocean, multicoloured landscapes splashed with blooming tropical flowers were just like scenes out of dreams. The 2-year contracted got extended and suddenly 14 years flew by. Our daughter was born there.
But the biggest wealth we earned were the Seychellois, they were truly family and many of them continue to be family even today. Unique work experiences apart, the people there were the biggest positive differentiator.
Since Reputation Today addresses the communications Industry, in my column today, for the first time I bring you another authentic expression based on my own experiences. Hope that you find this article useful, informative and educative.
Radiyo Banmboo- the real ‘social media’ before it all began
Seychelles culture is a vibrant Creole blend of African, European, and Asian influences. Amidst this melting pot word of mouth communication is superfast and truly authentic. Perceptions are therefore formed faster and before organised communications materialises (Internet research)
While I am talking about my experience during my tenure in the Seychelles from 1992- 2006 when even mobile phones had not been introduced, I am still very closely connected with communicators in the Seychelles. After all I was the Founding President of the Public Relations Society of Seychelles. Yes, Smartphones are the key first point of communications in the Seychelles now, but community perception still remain the primary point of reference. Brands are still torn apart in the popular group chat sessions over Seybrew (A wonderful Seychelles beer). Despite any communication, these community chats still remain the most important influencer platform.
Natural Happiness Practitioners, much before happiness was sought after
The Seychellois are happy by nature. Humans who live by their heart and practice happiness as a spontaneous way of life. They are also essentially polite and open to information and communication (Author)
In today’s world of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) happiness is one of the key prerequisites of achieving success. However tough their day has been a Seychellois will never look stressed. As the sun goes down you will find them admiring the sunset or nature with their friends. Often with a guitar humming away a creole song, or cheering their team even at an informal football match.
Make no mistake they work very hard and do not lose focus in what they do in their profession.
Resilience & Harmonious Diversity – the Seychellois spirit
The population is a proud mix of African, European, and Asian roots. The Creole culture dominates, uniting the community across different faiths and backgrounds. As a small island nation facing global and climate-related challenges, Seychellois have developed a strong, adaptive spirit. They value resourcefulness, cooperation, and the ability to find a way forward regardless of the obstacles (Internet research)
The Seychellois need to believe in what they do and buy into their purpose with logic. Being emotional and passionate, then there is no turning back. They then stand rooted and tall and deliver their purpose with sheer loyalty and absolute commitment.
“Celui qui cherche le miel doit avoir le courage d’affronter les abeilles”
(He who looks for honey must have the courage to face the bees)
A classic Seychellois Creole proverb
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