AIF Gala Co-Chairs Share Vision for May 9 Event and Why Supporting AIF Matters Now
Gala Co-Chairs Sumitra Sivaram and Nikhil Goray highlight the May 9 event, the MAANAS mental health initiative, and the growing impact of the American India Foundation as it marks 25 years.
BOSTON–As the American India Foundation (AIF) prepares for its New England Appreciation Gala on May 9, 2026, Gala Co-Chairs Sumitra Sivaram and Nikhil Goray are calling on the community to come together in support of one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations working across India today.
In a recent video conversation, the co-chairs shared insights into this year’s gala—its theme, its purpose, and why the moment is especially important.
A Gala with Purpose: May 9 in Boston
This year’s AIF New England Appreciation Gala will be held at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel under the theme “Catalyzing Change, Shaping Tomorrow.”
To watch the full interview, please click here, or on the image below.
“We warmly invite the community to join us, learn about the work underway, and see the impact these programs are creating,” the co-chairs shared.
A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of AIF’s MAANAS mental health program, which addresses critical gaps in mental health awareness and access in underserved communities across India.
Founded in 2001 in response to the Gujarat earthquake, AIF has grown into a leading organization tackling poverty through integrated programs in public health, education, and livelihoods.
As AIF marks its 25th anniversary, its impact is both measurable and far-reaching:
- More than 21 million lives impacted
- Presence across 35 states and Union Territories in India
- Strong alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
For Sivaram and Goray, this milestone underscores both credibility and urgency.
“With your partnership, we can expand this work even further and help shape a brighter future,” they emphasized.
Both co-chairs bring deep professional expertise and a shared commitment to purpose-driven leadership.
Nikhil Goray
A senior leader at EY, Goray leads AI innovation and enterprise transformation initiatives. His experience across organizations like Deloitte Consulting and Accenture reflects a career focused on scaling impact through strategy and technology.
Sumitra Sivaram
A healthcare strategist and executive at Creda Health, Sivaram has spent over two decades advancing patient-centered innovation and large-scale transformation across healthcare systems.
Her work aligns closely with AIF’s focus on improving access, outcomes, and equity.
More than a celebration, the May 9 gala is a call to action—bringing together leaders, philanthropists, and community members committed to creating meaningful change.
As AIF enters its next chapter, the message from its gala co-chairs is clear: this is a moment to build on a strong legacy and accelerate impact for the future.
