Why did you start volunteering with WIT?
I love the vision and mission of WIT. When I started back volunteering with WIT, the vision was “50-50 by 2020”. Coming from a family of 3 sisters and 1 brother, this was near and dear to my heart! My parents pushed all of us girls to become strong & independent. In a society as male-dominated as India was, all 3 of us sisters have done well for ourselves. Now, as the mother of a girl, I want for her to see by my example what women can achieve, and that there are no limits to how far she can go. Volunteering at WIT allows me to contribute to the organization, and meet some amazing women that are an inspiration to me… and by translation, an inspiration to my daughter.
What do you find most rewarding about volunteering with WIT (Program you are volunteering for… ex: WIT Girls, Campus, Careers, YoPros and Events (Forums, Socials, Signature Events)?
Volunteering with WIT is very rewarding, starting with the ability to network in a safe space. Being around women who elevate and support each other is truly refreshing. I thrive on being able to make and foster new friendships.
Also, being in a leadership role for WOTY awards has helped enhance my experience and help me get more well rounded as an individual. In addition to my work this is something I take extreme pride in.
What is your favorite program / event within WIT?
WOTY, because it recognizes the cutting edge work women are doing. These awards provide women a platform to be recognized for their contributions in their roles and, the successes that they achieve while overcoming the challenges and obstacles they face.
I am also inspired by the WIT girls and the WIT campus program. Seeing these young girls take advantage of these program offerings and watching them blossom and be successful is very enriching.
What about you…What would you like to share that people may not know?
I’m crazy when it comes to adventure. Love the opportunity to do something crazy like jumping from a plane or going hang gliding.
Please answer at least 3 of the questions below of your choice.
What experience in your life made you a stronger person?
The journey to bring my daughter home! We adopted our daughter from India. To facilitate the various nuances of this process I quit my job. Multiple trips to India, long extended stays away from my husband, dealing with bureaucracy and continually shifting laws… these were only some of the challenges of this process. This process while supremely gratifying, was also mentally and emotionally draining. Dealing with all these challenges while keeping my end goal in mind, truly helped me grow and become stronger. I would do this again in a heartbeat, and I carry this strength with me today
What 3 traits define you?
My daughter always describes me as kind, giving, helpful and smart, but I think here are three of the traits that define me.
Determination: Once I set my mind on something, I get it done
Compassionate: I truly care about people or causes I believe in.
Conscientious: I’m very dependable and disciplined and have a strong sense of duty.
All of these apply to both my personal and professional areas
What would be the title of your biography?
What is the best place you have traveled to?
Costa Rica – for the beauty & diversity of the landscape. From tropical rainforests on the east coast, Cloud forests and volcanos in the central part, to gorgeous beaches on the west coast… absolutely spectacular!
What is your favorite place to eat?
I love to try different cuisines
What is your favorite word/phrase/quote?
Never let anyone dull your sparkle
