AAPI’s Satheesh Kathula Recognized At RAYWA Foundation Gala

India-West Staff Reporter

NEW YORK, NY – Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), was honored with the Healthcare & Science Leadership Award at the Raising Awareness of Youth with Autism (RAYWA) Foundation’s annual awards gala. The event, held on December 14, at The Taj Pierre Hotel here, celebrated significant community achievements while emphasizing the importance of neurodiversity and raising awareness for young women and youth with autism.
During the event, Kathula praised the work of Mani Kamboj and Dr. Rashmi Sharma, recognizing their tireless efforts in advocating for autism awareness. “I really feel for the parents of autistic children, and what they go through. I just met a parent of a child who is autistic, and he was telling me what he’s going through. So, it is truly inspirational that you guys are really helping them. Thank you for doing such incredible work,” Kathula said, commending their dedication to supporting the autism

community.

He dedicated his award to his parents, family, and patients, sharing that their support inspires him to “do more, to be more, and to live more.” He encouraged others to draw inspiration from the world around them, noting, “Inspiration comes from all sources—nature, art, and the people around us. The best way to inspire people is by getting inspired by others. So, keep getting inspired and keep inspiring.”
The RAYWA Foundation, which has been hosting its gala for over two decades, recognizes individuals who inspire others through their exceptional contributions in their respective fields. This year’s event highlighted the Foundation’s continued commitment to supporting neurodiversity and raising awareness about the needs of youth with autism.