The 'human rights industry': An interview with Shyamla Eswaran

This interview was recorded and delivered as part of an undergraduate course called POLS113 Human Rights at the Political Science Department of Australian National University. The purpose of this session was to provide support to students seeking a career advise in human rights, social justice and related fields. This conversation between Dhaksh and Shyamla covers what 'human rights' means to them, their ancestral lineages and how this influences their work and art practice, as well as challenges associated with human rights 'industry'.

Shyamla (they/them/their) is a Performing Artist, Educator, Writer and Host with a Masters Degree in International Human Rights Law & Policy. They are the founder and director of Bindi Bosses, a South Asian Fusion Arts company blending traditional Indian dance with South Asian Cinema and global street dance. Shyamla has more than 15 years of experience across various sectors - corporate, public service and not-for-profit, including: copywriting, editing, web and content management, presenting/hosting, media and issue management/strategy, magazine sales and sponsorship, events and public relations.