Women Inc.
It was quite a celebration of women during Women’s History Month at the Indian American Forum in Long Island. Although lots of supportive men had turned up for this gala dinner, it was very much a women’s grand hurrah. Even the founder and chair of the Indian American Forum is a woman (albeit with a great board of men) – Indu Jaiswal, dietician and well-known community activist. The catering place where the gala dinner was held, Stuart Thomas Manor in Farmingdale, Long Island is also owned by woman entrepreneur Vandana Govil.
The honorees each had an interesting life story to tell: They included Manmeet Lamba, Sikh community leader and co-founder of Council of Sikh Women; Satya Pradeep – dancer, teacher and choreographer in classical Bharat Natyam and Odissi; Chanbir Kaur – Assistant District Governor for District 7250, Rotary International and Vice President, Community National Bank; Sangeet Sharma, broadcaster and business entrepreneur with Easy 96 Radio Station; and Lavina Melwani (c’est moi) – journalist and blogger.
The emcees for the event Siddhi and Anuj interviewed the honorees in a lively talk show setting with the guests as audience. A welcome change over long, unending speeches and elaborate thank yous! It was a community event where people from several different organizations came together, mingled and connected.
All photos by Kriti Osan
2 Comments
Indu, thank you! Normally, journalists are the fly on the wall and record what’s going on. It was a little strange being part of the story but I enjoyed it! I am sure you will find many enterprising women each year to celebrate.
Dear Lavina
What a great article and coverage! What about you being honored as outstanding journalist?
Your constant efforts in covering all the events in such a professional manner is admirable. We are all proud of the accomplishments of Indian women all over the world. We will continue to celebrate Women’s History Month each year.