On October 19, 2024, the inaugural IndiXspark event, “Celebrating Indian American Ideas,” took place in Spotswood, NJ, and emerged as a remarkable success. The event, co-founded by Neha Mahajan and Dr. Asha Menon, drew the Indian American community together for an enriching day filled with thought-provoking discussions, networking opportunities, and cultural festivities, all centered around the theme “First-Time Immigrant Experience.”
The event kicked off with a captivating sitar performance by Anju Bedi from Vancouver, setting a cultural ambiance that resonated throughout the gathering. Following this, attendees engaged in an open networking hour, where they shared ideas and fostered connections in a lively environment.
Each speaker brought their unique insights and powerful messages to the audience:
Neha Mahajan, a respected community advocate and media professional, shared her journey of championing immigrant rights. She recounted her experiences navigating restrictive immigration processes, which fueled her dedication to uplifting others in similar situations.
Aneri Desai, a career coach specializing in immigrant women, captivated attendees with her personal narrative about resilience, highlighting how overcoming challenges can unlock new pathways for growth.
Nithin Eapen, a tech entrepreneur, discussed the vital role of effective communication in achieving career success, illustrating how the right communication can foster personal and professional advancement.
Prema Roddam, a Senior Associate at Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, emphasized the importance of embracing second chances, sharing her expertise in global mobility and immigration.
Dr. Vineeth John, Vice Chair of Psychiatry at UT Health Houston, encouraged attendees to take calculated risks, discussing how stepping outside their comfort zones can lead to significant personal and professional development.
Anjali Mehrotra, a politician and activist, highlighted the power of representation, stressing the need for diverse voices in politics to empower marginalized communities.
Dr. Asha Menon, a physician and author, concluded the talks with a poignant poem celebrating the essence of America.
The event also showcased an exhibit of Mithila art by self-taught artist Shivangi Singh, whose intricate pieces captivated attendees, adding a rich cultural layer to the event. Additionally, the newly launched skincare line, MOOIE’Z et pure, garnered attention for its innovative, nature-inspired products, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit within the Indian American community.
The event was seamlessly managed by emcee Neena Bhanti, whose engaging personality kept the audience involved and entertained throughout.
Attendees enjoyed a delicious array of Indian cuisine, chai, and coffee, catered by Jhopri of Plainfield, adding a comforting touch to the gathering.
The immediate success of IndiXspark was evident, with participants expressing enthusiasm for more such events. As one of the first gatherings of its kind, IndiXspark has set the groundwork for future events aimed at celebrating the compelling stories within the Indian American community.
