FIA - A leading champion of Women's Empowerment celebrates International Women's Day

Chicago, IL: 
As the world gears up to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of Chicago stands as an ideal of empowerment, inclusivity, and cultural preservation for the Asian Indian community. Under the dynamic leadership of Mr. Sunil Shah founder / Chairman and his dedicated team, FIA Chicago has become the largest and most influential Asian community organization in the Midwest, growing threefold in just the past two years.

Behind every great leader stands a pillar of unwavering support, and for Mr. Sunil Shah, that strength has always been Mrs. Rita Sunil Shah. Through every challenge and triumph, she has been his silent force, his guiding light, and his steadfast believer. With grace and conviction, she has stood by his side, always saying, "I am 1000% with you, go ahead and achieve success!" Her words weren’t just encouragement; they were the foundation upon which dreams were built. Her faith in him never wavered, making her not just a life partner but the invisible force behind FIA Chicago’s remarkable journey. 

In a historic leap, FIA Chicago has shattered expectations with an unprecedented rise in female leadership. In 2023, women accounted for just 49 members, but in 2024, that number has surged to 123. From 49 female to 123 Female is151 % increment to women in one year [Mail 91 in 2023 and Mail in 123 in 2024 – 35 %increase]. Women participation marks a new era of inclusivity and empowerment. Under the visionary leadership of Sunil Shah and Vinita Gulbani Past President, Pratibha Jairath Immediate past president and Anu Malhotra current president, FIA has cultivated an environment where women are no longer just contributors but equal changemakers. This surge isn’t just about numbers it’s about redefining leadership, ensuring women play a pivotal role in shaping the future. FIA Chicago isn’t just growing; it’s evolving into a powerhouse of unity, equity, and progress.

FIA Chicago's phenomenal rise in female leadership is fueled by an extraordinary group of dedicated women who have been the backbone of its success. Apart from them Chandini Duvuri and Richa Chand, along with powerhouse leaders like Falguni Sukhadia, Sonia Luther, Pinky Thakkar, Anita Beri, Prasuna Muddasani, Kamlesh Kapoor, Leela Patel, Digna Patel, Asha Oroskar, Sushma Bhanot, Priyanka Parekh, and Archana Agrawal, have been instrumental in driving FIA’s mission forward. Their unwavering dedication and leadership have transformed FIA into a beacon of unity, strength, and progress for the Asian Indian community.

FIA Chicago enters 2025 with an unstoppable momentum, uniting over 300,000 Asian Indians across the Midwest under the visionary leadership of Sunil Shah and his dynamic team. Currently FIA is 246 members strong [123 men and 123 women, Total 246] an unprecedented milestone. From organizing grand celebrations of Indian Republic Day, Independence Day, and Diwali to providing crucial support in legal, educational, and medical fields, FIA Chicago has positioned itself as the most trusted voice of the Asian Indian community in the Midwest. Through grand celebrations, civic engagement, and charitable endeavors, FIA continues to strengthen its bridge between the USA and India, ensuring every voice is heard. Join the movement —because together, we are FIA Chicago, shaping history for generations to come!

“I am a great witness to FIA Chicago’s extraordinary 15-year journey one of resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment. FIA has set an unparalleled benchmark in community service and cultural preservation. No other organization has consistently championed the causes of the Indian diaspora with such dedication. FIA’s impact echoes through every celebration, advocacy effort, and act of service, making history year after year. As FIA forges ahead, its legacy of unity, empowerment, and progress remains stronger than ever.” Suresh Bodiwala, Founder and Chairman of Asian Media USA.