Pinkchair Story Teller hosted a reception in honor of the nine of us featured in their advocacy issue. It’s surprising to think that just a few months ago, I hadn’t met or even heard of these women.
We first gathered in July for the cover photo shoot, where we got to know each other and learn about one another's work. It was an amazing day. We spent hours hanging out, joking, and looking our best while a talented photographer captured us in her studio.
The editor and publisher decided to host a reception in our honor. Held in a school auditorium in Quincy, the event brought together a warm and appreciative crowd, along with incredibly generous hosts and guests, and fabulous food and drinks. It was wonderful to see friends and family gathered to celebrate us.
Working in the nonprofit sector or supporting underprivileged communities can be overwhelming and tiring. There are days when it feels like thankless work, but moments like this remind us why we must keep going. The encouragement and love we received that day reaffirmed our purpose.
I am deeply grateful to my village. They showed up to cheer me on, support me, and remind me that I matter to them.
A “pink banarasi” for an unforgettable day celebrating my village.
My speech
What a fabulous evening! I am so honored to be here with all of you tonight. A big thank you to Marcy and Bridget for making this possible.
I’m truly in awe of everyone in this room. Let’s give a round of applause for all the inspirational women here! And Stephanie, thank you for making me look this beautiful; the photoshoot will always be one of my most cherished memories.
Tonight, I have a question for you: How many of you can say you have a friend who truly understands you? Someone who knows your fears, insecurities, nightmares, and dreams? If you call her your bestie, do you know what her favorite destination is, what brings her joy, does she keep you grounded, supports your vision? And can she read your mind? On one of your craziest days, would she help you hide a body and be your alibi? And vice versa.
Think about that. Let it sit for 24 hours, and then make a list. Do you have an advocate, a connector, a mentor, a confidant, or a fun friend in your life?
If I asked you to introduce yourself in just five lines, where would you start? Now, what if I asked you to exclude your husband, children, and work from those lines—could you still describe your identity beyond those roles? Sit on that thought too.
Years ago, I was at a crossroads. I had a wonderful village, but after my son’s Autism diagnosis, I felt the absence of a friend who could see and understand the vulnerable mother in me. And then, a few came along, and my life changed. That gratitude became my guiding force.
A few years later, that feeling led me to create a village for moms of children with special needs. It was important to build friendships as women, not just as mothers. Those connections became lifelong friendships, and with that came the support, family, and resources.
In 2017, I started building a community for Indian moms of children with special needs. I wanted this village to be more than just a support group; I wanted it to be a circle of friendships beyond our roles as moms. That foundation has fostered lasting friendships and allowed us to build a circle of support.
Tonight, I encourage you to think about who you are as a person. Do you connect with someone as an individual or just as a mom, a wife, or a colleague?
I urge you to build your village, be there for one another, pay it forward, and find joy in these connections.
I am endlessly grateful for my village, my family, my parents, my sisters, and the Pandey men, who drive me crazy but inspire me to be a better version of myself every day. I couldn’t be who I am without their love, support and never ending arguments.
Thank you once again for having me here tonight.
The links to YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLWk3r-xnc8
and
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyWnD6qp4y0
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