Below The Line
Air Canada Brings Global ‘Fly the Flag’ Initiative Celebrating Equality, Inclusivity and Diversity to India
Air Canada, Canada's largest domestic and international airline, has been strengthening connections between India and Canada since 2015 with three new direct routes introduced in less than two years. To celebrate people making a mark in India, Air Canada is bringing its global ‘Fly the Flag’ initiative to Mumbai. In this latest iteration, ‘Fly the Flag’ highlights how people all over the world are making an impact in local communities, while displaying the values of diversity, equality, and inclusivity.
Air Canada has partnered with award-winning content creators Beautiful Destinations to revive the Hooper’s Ground basketball court and showcase Mumbai’s beauty, diversity, and vibrant culture. The initiative was conceived to create an enduring positive space in the community for people to come together that would leave an artistic legacy that is visible from the sky. Renowned Indian artist Sajid Wahid—through ST+ART India Foundation—used colour and design inspirations from Canada and India, including moose and elephant motifs reminiscent of the two nations, to create the unique colourful court.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Arun Pandeya, General Manager, Air Canada – India & South Asia said, “At Air Canada, we believe that by doing good and by participating fully in the communities we serve, our airline truly thrives. We’re committed to giving back through a range of initiatives each year that help advance diversity, equality and inclusivity around the world. Air Canada is grateful for the opportunity to add value in meaningful ways to the neighborhoods and communities in this wonderful nation. We thank our partners for making today’s event such a success, and the youth for taking part in the inaugural game on the new court.”
Attaching a detailed press release along with images here – we hope you can carry this. Please feel free to reach out for any clarifications or further information.
MUMBAI: Jayaram Nair, a seasoned brand activation guru, has launched Intensity, a joint venture with Tribes Communication, and is relocating to Bengaluru to spearhead the new venture. Nair, who boasts 26 years of experience in the cut-throat world of BTL media, is promising to deliver “high impact solutions” across India’s sprawling marketing landscape.
“I’m excited to announce my new gig,” Nair declared on LinkedIn, “Intensity is a fresh venture, a JV with the award-winning Tribes Communication. We’re talking integrated brand building, folks, and we’re ready to get going.
Nair’s resume reads like a who’s who of Indian advertising, with stints at Cheil India, Percept Ltd, and Publicis Groupe. He’s a self-proclaimed “growth specialist,” “motivator,” and “change leader,” with a knack for P&L management and a “practical approach” to problem-solving.
“I’ve been around the block,” Nair quipped, “From Mumbai to Gurgaon, I’ve seen it all. Now, I’m bringing that experience to Bangalore, but let’s be honest, the whole world’s my playground.”
Intensity, backed by Tribes’ extensive network across 14 cities, is set to offer a full suite of brand building services, from live events and retail branding to loyalty programs and gaming events. Nair’s experience in “dark marketing” (read: cigarette promotions) suggests he’s not afraid to tackle tricky briefs.
“With a handpicked team and a pool of top-notch partners, we’re ready to fuel growth,” Nair asserted. “We’re not just building brands; we’re building empires.”
He will be operating from Bengaluru, but it is clear his ambition is to take on the whole of the Indian market.
This move marks a bold step for both Nair and Tribes, as the duo aims to carve out a significant slice of India’s burgeoning marketing pie. With Nair’s experience and Tribes’ reach, they are setting their sights high.
