News India Times

www.newsindiatimes.com – that’s all you need to know News India Times (March 14, 2026 - March 20, 2026) March 20, 2026 18 Special Report She Matters Global Foundation Launches With Tribute To Women In Downers Grove T he She Matters Global Foundation, a new nonprofit focused on em- powering and supporting women, officially launched Saturday with an event titled “She Matters – A Grand Tribute toWomanhood” at Ashya- na Banquets in Downers Grove. The celebration brought together com- munity leaders, entrepreneurs, artists and supporters to recognize women’s achieve- ments and contributions across various fields. The organization was founded by Rajkumari Rathod, who said the founda- tion was created to ensure women receive recognition, support and opportunities to succeed. “This event was not just a celebration — it was the start of a vision that is very close to my heart,” Rathod said. “She Mat- ters was created to uplift women, cele- brate their achievements, support women entrepreneurs and build meaningful con- nections within our community.” The evening featured theWomen Excellence Awards honoring women mak- ing positive impacts in their communi- ties. Guests also enjoyed cultural dance performances, live music, a gala dinner, giveaways and a DJ celebration. According to organizers, the foundation aims to create platforms that empower women through recognition programs, networking opportunities, mentorship and community initiatives designed to promote leadership and growth. Members of the organizing team per- form the traditiAttendees described the event as an evening of empowerment and unity that highlighted the strength, resil- ience and talents of women from diverse backgrounds. Rathod said the foundation plans to host future programs and initiatives that support women’s entrepreneurship, leadership development and community engagement. “This is just the beginning,” she said. “Together, we are building something meaningful — a space where women feel encouraged, respected and empowered.” By Bhailal Patel FIA–New England Celebrates International Women’s Day, Launches Tree-Planting Initiative To Commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary T he Foundation of Indian-Americans – New England (FIA–NE) hosted an inspiring celebration of International Women’s Day at the top of Boston’s iconic Prudential Center, bringing together accomplished women leaders from across healthcare, entrepreneurship, wellness, arts, and community service. The event was hosted and moderated by Jyoti Singh, Director of FIA–New England, who led a thoughtful roundtable discussion with women leaders representing diverse professional and com- munity backgrounds. Through carefully curated questions, Singh guided the conversation toward powerful reflections on leadership, resilience, men- torship, and the importance of uplifting the next generation of women leaders. Shruti Purushottam, Deputy Consul General of India in Boston, attended the celebration as the Chief Guest and joined community leaders in recogniz- ing the significant contributions of women who continue to shape and strengthen communities across the New England region. The event also marked the launch of FIA–New Eng- land’s new environmental initiative, “Plant a Plant – Give to Gain.” As part of the program, the organization pledged to plant 250 fruit-bearing trees over the coming months in honor of 250 years of American freedom, high- lighting the connection between community service and environmental stewardship. The initiative symbolizes the nurturing role women of- ten play in both families and communities while encour- aging collective action toward sustainability. MEANINGFUL DIALOGUE ON WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP A central highlight of the program was theWomen’s Empowerment Roundtable Discussion, where partici- pants shared personal journeys and insights on navigat- ing professional challenges, balancing leadership with service, and building supportive networks for women. The discussion created an open and engaging environ- ment where participants reflected on the evolving role of women in leadership and the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and representation. Singh’s moderation encouraged participants to share deeply personal stories of perseverance and purpose, resulting in a powerful exchange of ideas and experiences HONORING WOMEN LEADERS During the celebration, FIA–New England rec- ognized a distinguished group of women for their outstanding contributions to community service, entrepreneurship, healthcare, wellness, arts, and social impact. The honorees included: • Kathy McDonald – Special Education Child Outreach Director • Vicky Brogden – Community Service Leader • Vandana Pitke – Health and Ayurveda Practitio- ner • Susanne Dillon – Co-founder, Rhode Island Holistic Healing Association • Kadian A. James – Psychotherapist and Health Advocate • Gahna Adaval – Volunteer Service in Adult Care • Lana Israel – Nutrition and Exercise Expert • Manju Kaushal – Longtime Business Owner • Sujata Patil – Business Entrepreneur and Com- munity Leader • Sudha Sarin – Entrepreneur • Kameswari Kavsari – Community Service Advocate • Lakshmi Tulasi Nallam – Entrepreneur • Priya Bagade – Model and Actress • Deepa Agrawal – Community Service • Tanu Phoenix – Community Leader • Aditi Soni – Community Service Advocate • Guzel Bikynova ( Fitness & HealthCare) Each honoree was recognized for her dedication and impact in uplifting communities and inspiring others through leadership and service. PHOTO:RAMOD KUMAR PHOTO:REUTERS Members of the organizing team perform the traditional diya lighting ceremony during the launch of the “She Matters – A Grand Tribute to Womanhood” event hosted by the She Matters Global Foundation on March 7, 2026, at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, Illinois. The ceremony marked the official opening of the celebration honoring women’s achievements and leadership within the community. Award recipients and organizers pose for a group photo during the “She Matters – A Grand Tribute to Womanhood” launch event hosted by the She Matters Global Foundation on March 7, 2026, at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, Illinois. The event celebrated women’s achievements and honored community leaders through the Women Excellence Awards while bringing together supporters, entrepreneurs and artists for an evening of recognition and empowerment. From Press Release