Preity Upala, Founder and Chairman of OMNIA Group, is a trailblazer whose career path reflects both resilience and vision. With a background in investment banking and technology, Upala’s transition to media entrepreneurship was a transformative journey, rooted in her belief in a higher purpose, or Dharma. This realization sparked her profound shift towards geopolitics, media, and diplomacy, where she seeks to empower others and influence global affairs.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Upala’s shift from investment banking to media entrepreneurship was not born out of necessity, but rather a spiritual awakening that reshaped her life. “We are all here on our own journey in life,” she reflects, “Sometimes traveling through various pathways to get to our destination. The corporate world in Australia and the UK was uninspiring for me. I knew there had to be more to my life. My spiritual awakening gave me the clarity to pursue my purpose wholeheartedly.” Her transition into the media industry was not a rejection of her past but a way to integrate her banking, technology, and geopolitical expertise into a platform that could influence the world.
Her work at OMNIA Group brings together diverse sectors such as business, media, technology, and diplomacy, all driven by her unique perspective. “I am far more nuanced about how geopolitics and geo-economics affect companies and people. And vice versa,” she says.
Technology, Innovation, and Global Power Dynamics
As an advisor to private technology companies, Preity Upala is keenly attuned to the evolving landscape of innovation and global geopolitics. She emphasizes the transformative potential of “Deep Tek,” a term she uses to describe the convergence of generative AI, VR/AR, biotech, and cyber reality. “The future is exciting,” she notes, “and nothing today can be divorced from geopolitics. Countries that innovate in these fields will become more powerful. Data is the new oil, and whoever controls it will rule the world.”
Her insights on the intersection of technology and global power highlight the need for nations to adapt quickly to technological changes, not just to maintain economic standing but also to secure their geopolitical position in the multipolar world. “The rules have changed, and in this new world order, several nations are poised to become global power centers.”
Breaking Barriers: A Woman’s Perspective
As a woman who has navigated male-dominated industries such as investment banking, technology, sports, and media, Preity Upala has become an emblem of resilience and empowerment. “I have often found myself as the only woman in a room filled with military generals, political leaders, and experts in these fields,” she shares. “It’s daunting at times, but I leveraged the situation. The unique female touch is what these situations often call for.”
Her advice to young women aspiring to break into traditionally male-dominated industries is simple yet powerful: “Know your subject well, and be prepared to justify your reasoning. Men will defer to you if they see that you can back yourself up.” For her, it’s about more than just breaking into a field; it’s about transforming it. “Fields like diplomacy, peace, and conflict resolution require a human approach to solution-building, and there’s no reason why women cannot excel in these fields.”
Bridging Diplomacy and Empowerment
Preity Upala’s work spans across various sectors, yet one constant remains: her commitment to empowerment. “True empowerment is when you can help others see their own power within,” she explains. This philosophy is not just a professional mindset but a personal mission. Raised as a minority in different parts of the world, Upala learned humility, gratitude, and the importance of recognizing one’s own worth. “Growing up as a minority gave me the perspective that we are all more alike than we are different,” she states.
Her experiences have shaped her leadership style. “The most defining moments in my life were when I began to look at my career as my Dharma—purpose, rather than just a job. I realized my true gift is my voice and my words, and that is what I must share with the world.”
A Global Vision: The U.S.-India Partnership
One area where Preity Upala’s geopolitical expertise shines is in her analysis of U.S.-India relations. She believes this strategic partnership will be central in shaping global diplomacy over the coming decades. “The U.S.-India relationship will be the most crucial in the second half of this century,” Upala asserts. “Two great democracies, nuclear powers with shared values, both countries are positioned to become force multipliers for good in the world.”
Looking ahead, she sees immense potential for collaboration between the two nations, particularly in areas such as nuclear deterrence, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism. “The next decade will be a vulnerable period for the world, and countries like India, with its diplomatic maturity, will need to step up as global leaders.”
Soft Power and Feminism in Diplomacy
For Upala, feminism and soft power are inextricably linked to effective diplomacy. She recognizes that global power is no longer solely defined by military might. “Soft power—traits like empathy, respect, and understanding—will become increasingly important in shaping the future of international relations,” she explains. “We need to humanize perspectives and seek middle ground instead of dismissing others’ views.”
Countries like India, she notes, have a unique opportunity to combine both hard and soft power to reshape global policy. “India is a prime example of a nation that has both and can leverage this strength to create more balanced international relations.”
A Cultural Journey
Having traveled to over 100 countries, Preity Upala’s worldview is rich with cultural sensibilities that she integrates into her work. “Living in various parts of the world, particularly in regions where I was an ethnic and religious minority, has deeply influenced my understanding of humanity,” she reflects. “I have learned to be more empathetic and recognize the complexity of every culture. It’s crucial not to generalize a country but to understand its nuances.”
This cultural awareness shapes her approach to media entrepreneurship and geopolitics, allowing her to bring intellectual honesty and human empathy to her work.
The Intersection of Dharma and Leadership
A self-described Certified Dharma Ambassador, Upala often integrates the teachings of Sanatan Dharma—India’s ancient philosophy—into her approach to leadership. “Sanatan Dharma offers timeless wisdom on humanity and oneness, which is incredibly relevant in today’s world of diplomacy and conflict resolution,” she notes. The philosophy’s teachings on duty, right action, and fighting for justice resonate strongly with her work in global diplomacy.
In Upala’s view, the principles of Dharma could play a critical role in resolving some of the world’s most pressing geopolitical challenges. “India, with its rich spiritual tradition, can lead the way in applying these ancient teachings to modern leadership and statecraft.”
Looking Ahead: Empowerment and Legacy
As Preity Upala continues her journey of empowerment and transformation, she remains committed to helping others reach their highest potential. Whether through her media ventures, diplomatic endeavors, or spiritual teachings, Upala’s mission is clear: to inspire others to discover their own power, overcome adversity, and make a meaningful impact in the world.