As the world prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, FIA Chicago stands as a pillar of empowerment, cultural unity, and inclusivity within the Asian Indian community. Under the leadership of Sunil Shah, the organization has grown threefold in just two years, making it the largest and most influential Asian community organization in the Midwest.
Behind Sunil Shah’s success is the unwavering support of Mrs. Rita Sunil Shah, whose belief in his vision has been a driving force behind FIA’s remarkable journey. Her steadfast encouragement has played a key role in shaping the organization’s legacy.
FIA Chicago has made historic strides in female leadership, with women’s participation increasing from 49 members in 2023 to 123 in 2024—a 151% rise. This shift reflects a new era of equality, where women are not just contributors but key decision-makers. Under the guidance of Vinita Gulbani, Pratibha Jairath, and current president Anu Malhotra, FIA has become a space where women play a pivotal role in leadership and progress.
FIA’s momentum is powered by dedicated female leaders, including Chandini Duvuri, Richa Chand, Falguni Sukhadia, Sonia Luther, Pinky Thakkar, Anita Beri, Prasuna Muddasani, Kamlesh Kapoor, Leela Patel, Digna Patel, Asha Oroskar, Sushma Bhanot, Priyanka Parekh, and Archana Agrawal. Their contributions have solidified FIA as a beacon of strength, unity, and advocacy.
As FIA Chicago moves forward, it continues to unite over 300,000 Asian Indians across the Midwest. With 246 active members (123 men and 123 women), the organization has reached an unprecedented milestone. Through grand celebrations of Indian Republic Day, Independence Day, and Diwali, as well as support in legal, educational, and medical fields, FIA has become the most trusted voice for the Indian diaspora in the Midwest.
Suresh Bodiwala, Founder of Asian Media USA, praised FIA’s 15-year journey, stating, “No other organization has championed the causes of the Indian diaspora with such dedication. FIA’s impact echoes through every celebration, advocacy effort, and act of service, making history year after year.”
As FIA continues its journey, it remains a legacy of empowerment, unity, and cultural preservation, shaping history for generations to come.
