This week, Young Citizens of the World had the immense privilege of welcoming one of India’s most iconic and inspiring figures—Sushmita Sen—to our global classroom. From Vancouver to Delhi to Washington D.C., students across continents gathered on Zoom to engage in a deeply meaningful and heartwarming conversation with the woman who made history as the first Indian to win Miss Universe in 1994 and has since become a beloved actress and a bold voice for women’s empowerment.
Sushmita Sen joined us with poise, warmth, and a radiant smile that immediately made every student feel seen and valued. Our celebrated host, Geneviève Borne, guided the interview with her signature blend of curiosity and kindness, opening the floor to student questions from around the world.
💫 A Defining Moment at 18
Elsa, a student of Indian heritage from Blessed Sacrament School in Vancouver, asked Sushmita what the most defining moment was from her Miss Universe experience. With heartfelt honesty, Sushmita recalled being just 18, having never attended university, and going from the quiet streets of Delhi to the world stage. “It turned me into a global citizen,” she said, reminding us that dreams—no matter how small they begin—can unfold into limitless horizons when nurtured with courage.
🎥 The Roles We Choose
From Washington D.C., Tulsi—whose family is also from Delhi—asked how Sushmita chooses such powerful and empowering roles. Sushmita reflected on how life and art mirror each other, and how her own growth as a woman has naturally shaped her film choices. “Every time I’ve tried to play a woman who wasn’t strong, the film bombed,” she said with a laugh. “People want the truth of who you are.”
🕊️ Changing the World, One Step at a Time
Michaela from Cloverdale Catholic School in British Columbia asked what advice Sushmita would give to young people who want to change the world but don’t know where to start. Her answer was a gentle but powerful reminder: start small. “Short goals, small steps,” she said. “Travel, meet people, and discover your personal calling. That’s when it becomes long-lasting.”
🌱 The Fight for the Environment
In a moment of deeper reflection, Sushmita addressed the challenge of balancing India’s massive economic growth with environmental protection. She spoke about India’s rural population, infrastructure needs, and the importance of education in driving sustainable change. “When you know better, you do better,” she said. Through her own initiatives—like supporting schools and pushing for environmental awareness in curriculum—she’s helping build the future one child at a time. “Each one, teach one,” she reminded us.
💖 A Tribe of Young Citizens
What resonated most throughout the interview was Sushmita’s unwavering belief in young people. “This is my tribe,” she said. “The most inspiring people in the world are young people.” With over 50% of India’s population under 25, she sees firsthand the power and potential of youth—and through our global network, she shared that same energy with over 1 million students across more than 10,000 schools.
We are deeply grateful to Sushmita Sen for her authenticity, wisdom, and radiant spirit. Her words will echo in classrooms around the world, lighting sparks of change in the hearts of the next generation.
Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:
🎥 Sushmita Sen Interview – Young Citizens of the World