The spiritual leader and humanitarian delivered a talk on Leadership, Self-connection, Technology and Global responsibility at an evening event organised by the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York on 1st October.

Spiritual leader and humanitarian Brahmarishi Dr. Mohanji told the diplomats and business leaders in New York that there is still approximately 30,000 days. That is it, you can’t extend it, it’s not extendable.”

He asked them to consider how they spend their time, their talents and power, and what they want to accomplish within the time they have in their lives.

Mohanji was the guest of honour and keynote speaker at the VIP Diplomacy & Leadership Evening, hosted by Ambassador Dr. Vladimir Božović, President of the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York, and Dame Gloria Starr Kins, President and Founder of Society & Diplomatic Review. The event brought together diplomats from more than 40 countries, alongside representatives from business, academia, medicine, culture and philanthropy.

In her remarks, Dame Gloria shared her family’s experience during the Second World War, when consular assistance and visas helped her relatives escape Nazi persecution and reach the United States. Her account highlighted the impact diplomatic services can have on individual lives and families.

A central theme of Mohanji’s address was the need to look beyond national boundaries when considering global challenges. “Now we look at the world as countries… but we should look at the world as a whole,” he said.

Self-connection was another key theme. “My core teaching is self-connection,” he said, explaining the importance of understanding and accepting one’s nature, uniqueness and potential. He linked this awareness to leadership and diplomacy, particularly when decisions carry human consequences amid conflict and social division.

Mohanji also spoke about a gathering in South Africa that brought together representatives of Indigenous communities from Hawaii, Alaska, New Zealand, the Arctic and the Amazon. Referring to them as “wisdom keepers”, he emphasised preserving cultural traditions, protecting nature and creating greater recognition for Indigenous knowledge.

On technology, he noted that dependence on digital devices can sometimes reduce meaningful interaction, even within families. As artificial intelligence continues to influence daily life and work, he highlighted the importance of compassion, intuition and human connection.

Questions and an open discussion followed, before Mohanji met guests for informal one-to-one conversations. For a room accustomed to thinking in terms of nations, the evening ended with a more personal question: how would each person choose to use their 30,000 days?