South Asian Bar Association Of Orange County Launches With Board Installation
Photo: SABA-OC executive officers stand with several judicial officers in attendance, reflecting the strong support from Orange County’s bench for the new chapter’s mission of mentorship, representation, and community impact.
By Angad Nehru
IRVINE, CA – Over a hundred attorneys, judges, law students, and community leaders gathered at The Boardwalk here to celebrate the official launch of the South Asian Bar Association of Orange County (SABA-OC) and the installation of its inaugural Board of Directors on November 4.
The evening reception, hosted by Rutan & Tucker LLP, marked SABA-OC becoming the newest and 32nd chapter of the nationwide South Asian Bar Association of North America (SABA-NA), joining a network that represents thousands of South Asian legal professionals across the continent.
“For decades to come, we hope to serve as a hub for connection, mentorship, advocacy, and professional growth for attorneys, law students, judges, and legal professionals of South Asian descent — and for all who support our mission,” the organization stated in its launch announcement. “Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner, a new lawyer finding your path, or a student exploring the profession, we are here to celebrate your journey, create space for your voice, and amplify your impact.”
SABA-OC expressed gratitude to the South Asian Bar Association of Southern California (SABA-SC) for decades of leadership and representation. “We are deeply indebted to SABA-SC for representing our community and, with their support, have the resources necessary to launch an independent South Asian legal bar organization serving Orange County exclusively,” organizers shared. “We look forward to building stronger relationships with our SABA neighbors in Los Angeles and San Diego as we gain our footing as an independent chapter.”
Highlights
The program featured remarks from some of the region’s most respected legal leaders:
Hon. Shashi Kewalramani, mediator and arbitrator with JAMS and retired U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Central District of California, applauded the chapter’s formation and urged continued engagement, “Forming SABA-OC is a tremendous first step. The next challenge is to stay relevant. I call upon big law firm partners, general counsel, and judicial officers to actively support this organization and ensure it thrives long after tonight.”
Mei Tsang, President of the Orange County Bar Association and intellectual property lawyer at Umberg Zipser, reflected on her own immigrant journey and the importance of belonging:
“Community is what shapes careers and gives life meaning,” said Tsang, extending a warm welcome to SABA-OC as part of the OCBA family.
Navneet S. Chugh, Attorney and CPA, the founding president of SABA National, inspired attendees with his vision for global excellence. “Orange County is smart, wealthy, successful, educated, spacious yet intimate — paradise perfected,” said Chugh. “There’s no reason SABA-OC can’t become the number one Indian Bar Association in the world. Let’s dream big and then even bigger.”
Hon. Vibhav Mittal, the first South Asian judge on the Orange County Superior Court, installed the inaugural Board of Directors and shared a touching story about family, connection, and the strength of community.
The induction included Janani S. Rana as President, Fred Thiagarajah as Vice President, Simon Khinda as Secretary, Jehan Jayakumar as Treasurer, and Directors – Amanat Singh, Yatika Chaudhri, Sabina Chopra, Ashley Daniel, Aditi Murillo, Cameron Patel, Rajal Patel, Swati Paul Khetani, Taline Ratanjee, Anand Sambhwani, Ricky Shah, Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal, and Akhil Sheth.
“This is a momentous day for the South Asian legal community in Orange County,” said Janani S. Rana, Partner at Minyard Morris and SABA-OC’s first President. “Our board represents a new generation of leadership committed to service, professionalism, and inclusion.”
Fred Thiagarajah, a well-known criminal defense attorney and longtime advocate for diversity in law, added: “SABA-OC will not only elevate South Asian lawyers in Orange County but also build bridges across all communities.” Thiagarajah will serve as the chapter’s first Vice President.
To become a member or more information: www.sabaoc.org
