Lead In Heels Holds Impactful Event At Milpitas

By DEEPIKA SINGH

MILPITAS, CA – The Lead in Heels Fundraiser Gala took place on December 3 at the University of Silicon Andhra, here.

Lead in Heels, a Bay Area-based non-profit founded by the award-winning radio host and TV producer Papiha Nandy, is dedicated to supporting NGOs in India and worldwide that align with their mission of empowering women. The organization establishes a robust support system for survivors of acid attacks, gender violence, human trafficking, domestic violence, and humanitarian causes. This includes providing women and children access to educational and health benefits, fostering financial independence, and supporting activists committed to social justice.

Aditi Pal Karandikar, the President, shared the organization’s vision to expand its reach by providing resources on domestic violence, mental health, and financial literacy to empower women in the United States.

During the event, Papiha Nandy, the Founder and Chairwoman, discussed Lead in Heels’ impactful projects. These include the Shobha Rani Nandy scholarship for medical and engineering students from financially constrained backgrounds, the Million Pad Project, and the Kakoli Nandy Wellness Center. Nandy’s impassioned speech showcased the profound impact on lives through videos of survivors and beneficiaries. Lead in Heels actively supports organizations such as the Rescue Foundation in Mumbai and Prajwala in Hyderabad.

The gala featured stand-up comedians and emcees, including internationally known Dan Nainan, who has performed for both Obama and Trump, and Bay Area’s multi-talented singer, actor, comedian, and emcee Shalini Ramachandran.

The hosts took turns introducing Chief Guest Raj Salwan, Guest of Honor Yan Zha, and Milpitas Commissioner Jinky Peralta. Each commendably acknowledged Lead in Heels’ work and presented proclamations and recognition certificates.

The evening showcased dance performances by the Bollywood/Hollywood acclaimed dancer/choreographer Joya N. Kazi, Odissi Dance exponent Gayatri Mishra Joshi, and Bharatnatyam dancer Shraddha Joglekar. Singer Deepti Venkat added to the lively atmosphere.

The fundraising efforts were directed towards crucial projects, including reconstructive surgery for acid attack victims, combatting human trafficking, and supporting an Old Age Home near Hyderabad for abandoned seniors. The night concluded with a silent auction and delectable food from Jalsa Catering.

The event left the audience with a profound sense of expansion and appreciation for organizations like Lead in Heels, actively making a positive impact on the world.