Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England organized an unforgettable celebration on International Women’s Day 2025 at Iconic John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, uniting women leaders from diverse fields to honor their remarkable contributions to society. It was an inspiring day filled with recognitions, meaningful interactions.

The day’s celebration kicked off with a special interactive video session, where highly accomplished women leaders shared their experiences and reflections. The theme of the discussion was inspired by JFK’s iconic speech, “Ask not what your country can do for you; Ask what you can do for your country! …”, deeply resonating  with the values of service, dedication, and leadership. The session was flawlessly moderated by FIA Executive Team Members, Manisha Kumar, Anupama Debroy, Dr. Lakshmi Thalanki, Piyusha, and Vishant Mahajan, who guided the conversation in a dynamic and engaging manner.

The celebration continued with an official honoring ceremony, where Ms. Irena Victoria King read aloud the International Women's Day Governor’s Proclamation, and shared a special message from Honorable Joe Kennedy III, further acknowledging the significance of this day and the outstanding women leaders being recognized.

A huge congratulations was extended to all the Awarded Women Leaders, whose work spans across various fields, including entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, arts, fashion, community service, and more. Their leadership and unwavering commitment continue to inspire positive change and uplift communities worldwide. The honorees included:

· Irena Victoria King – Entrepreneurship & Economic Development

· Chelsea Force – Martial Arts Educator for Underprivileged Children

· Maggie Lemay – Former Naval Officer & Ms. Continental Worldwide; Remarkable Contributions in Health and Wellness

· Misti Nordstrom – International Mrs. North America; Outstanding Contributions in Fashion and Beauty

· Michelle Guerrero – Advocate for Small Business Owners

· Shefali Desai Kalyani – Dedicated to Feeding the Homeless & Supporting Food Pantries

· Dr. Charu Patel – Mental Healthcare Professional

· Pratibha Ayurved – Ayurveda Research & Scholarship

· Sunaina Chauhan – Leadership in Education, Supporting Underprivileged Families

· Manisha Jain Jain – Leadership in Education for Underprivileged Children

· Neela Gandhi Gandhi – Over Three Decades of Community Service

· Ekta Jaina Jain – Remarkable Contributions in Music & Arts

· Meetu Gupta – Philanthropy & Social Work

· Divya Salhi – Contributions in Philanthropy and Community Service

· Vasudha Kudrimoti – Creative Media

· Neeharika Munjal – Youth Mentorship

· Nagasree Chakka – Women & Children Empowerment

· Java Mehta Joshi – Promoting Creative Arts and Culture

· Yogita Miharia – Creative Arts and Culture

· Dhaniben Patel- Manisha Patel – Philanthropy & Community Service

· Sangeeta Saxena – Spiritual Guidance & Service

· Sonali Doshi – Music Influencer

· Dr. Nandita Kansara – Tremendous Contributions in Healthcare During the COVID-19 Pandemic

· Anupama Debroy – Community & Volunteer Service

Following the honoring ceremony, the FIA team led by MCs Priyanka Wadhwa and Jyoti Singh presented each woman leader with a memento and award, acknowledging their extraordinary work in their respective fields. The ceremony concluded with heartfelt gratitude to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum staff and all the dignitaries in attendance, who made the celebration possible.

The celebration was a testament to the power of women’s leadership and the ongoing fight for gender equality. It was an inspiring gathering that not only celebrated women’s achievements but also encouraged the next generation of women leaders to continue forging paths of change, compassion, and empowerment.

A special thank you to Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, and Honorable Joe Kennedy III for their support and leadership, along with the FIA Women Executives for the grand success of this event.

The International Women’s Day 2025 celebration at the JFK Library was a day filled with empowerment, unity, and inspiration, as women leaders from all walks of life came together to make a lasting impact.

About John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of President John F. Kennedy and promoting the values of public service, equality, and leadership. The Library hosts numerous educational and cultural events to inspire new generations of leaders, honor influential figures, and highlight important causes like gender equality.

Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England
The Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals, especially women, in various fields of leadership, community service, and entrepreneurship. The FIA works to uplift the Indian-American community through impactful initiatives and celebrations like International Women’s Day, highlighting the achievements of women leaders.www.fiane.org 

|