The Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England (fiane.org), a non-profit organization, hosted a grand celebration for International Women’s Day 2025 on March 8 at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. The event recognized outstanding women leaders from diverse fields for their remarkable contributions to society.
Celebrating Women’s Achievements
The day-long celebration began with an interactive video session featuring women leaders sharing their experiences and reflections. The theme was inspired by John F. Kennedy’s famous words: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.” The session was moderated by FIA executive team members Manisha Kumar, Anupama Debroy, Dr. Lakshmi Thalanki, Piyusha, and Vishant Mahajan, according to a press release from FIA-NE.
During the official honoring ceremony, Irena Victoria King read aloud the International Women’s Day Governor’s Proclamation and shared a special message from Joe Kennedy III.
Honoring Women Leaders
The event recognized women across various fields, including entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, arts, fashion, community service, and philanthropy. 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; Health and Wellness Contributions
- Misti Nordstrom – International Mrs. North America; Fashion and Beauty Contributions
- Michelle Guerrero – Advocate for Small Business Owners
- Shefali Desai Kalyani – Feeding the Homeless & Supporting Food Pantries
- 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 – 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
- Nandita Kansara – Healthcare Contributions During COVID-19
- Anupama Debroy – Community & Volunteer Service
Recognizing Contributions
The FIA team, led by MCs Priyanka Wadhwa and Jyoti Singh, presented each honoree with a memento and award, recognizing their achievements. Organizers expressed gratitude to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum staff and the dignitaries in attendance for making the event a success.
