Phuket (Thailand): Shirley Roy, originally from Manipur, has been reappointed as the Northeast India Representative for the Indian Embassy in Thailand. This reappointment recognizes her ongoing efforts to assist visitors and expats from Northeast India and her dedication to strengthening ties between the region and Thailand.
Having lived in Thailand for seven years, with Phuket as her current home, Shirley has become an invaluable asset to the Northeast Indian community in Thailand, offering guidance and support in various roles.
“I’m truly honored to continue this work,” Shirley shared. “Living in Thailand these past seven years has provided me with the knowledge and experience to assist people from my home region, whether they’re visiting or living here.”
Contributions to the Northeast Indian Community
Shirley’s commitment to serving her community is evident through her various initiatives:
- Co-founder and General Secretary of the North East Indian Society (NEIS): Shirley has been instrumental in creating a support network for Northeast Indians in Thailand through NEIS.
- Education Advocate: Recently, she helped organize an education event in Bangkok, attended by over 100 participants, including Thai Ministry of Education officials. The event fostered collaboration between Thai and Northeast Indian educators and provided a platform for sharing experiences.
- Panelist and Speaker: As a panelist at the education event, Shirley provided insights on opportunities for Northeast Indian women seeking teaching positions in Thailand. She also highlighted the potential of AI in education, envisioning how it could enhance teacher effectiveness by reducing administrative tasks.
- Emergency Support: Shirley has proven to be a reliable resource in emergencies. In one instance, she facilitated the issuance of emergency passports within 24 hours for two Manipuri women whose passports were stolen. In another, she offered comfort and coordinated support for a university student from Meghalaya facing a life-threatening medical emergency.
A Cultural Bridge
Shirley’s reappointment not only acknowledges her personal accomplishments but also underscores the increasing significance of Northeast India in India-Thailand relations. Her role as a cultural bridge has been recognized by prominent figures, including representatives from the Thai Ministry of Education and the Indian Ambassador to Thailand, who attended her recent education event.
“If you’re from Northeast India and visiting or living in Thailand, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance,” Shirley added. “I’m here to serve as a resource and support for our community in Thailand.”
