By: Vandana Jhingan

The Foundation of Indian-Americans – New England (FIA–NE) hosted a vibrant International Women’s Day celebration atop Boston’s iconic Prudential Center, honoring the achievements of women leaders across healthcare, entrepreneurship, wellness, arts, and community service.

The event, hosted and moderated by FIA–NE Director Jyoti Singh, featured a roundtable discussion where leaders reflected on resilience, mentorship, and the importance of nurturing the next generation of women professionals. Singh’s thoughtful questions sparked personal stories of perseverance and purpose, creating a candid dialogue on the evolving role of women in leadership and community impact.

Shruti Purushottam, Deputy Consul General of India in Boston, attended as the Chief Guest, joining community leaders in recognizing the remarkable contributions of women shaping New England communities.

In a special highlight, FIA–NE launched its environmental initiative, “Plant a Plant – Give to Gain,” pledging to plant 250 fruit-bearing trees over the coming months in honor of 250 years of American independence. The initiative reflects the nurturing role women play in families and communities while promoting sustainability and collective action.

The celebration also honored a distinguished group of women for their leadership and service, including educators, entrepreneurs, wellness advocates, community organizers, and artists. Among the honorees were Kathy McDonald, Vicky Brogden, Vandana Pitke, Sujata Patil, Priya Bagade, and Tanu Phoenix, recognized for their lasting impact on communities across New England.

The event concluded with networking and engagement, leaving attendees inspired by the stories shared and the shared commitment to empowering women. Through initiatives like this, FIA–New England continues to advance its mission of fostering leadership, service, and cultural unity while strengthening communities throughout the region.