BURLINGTON, MA–Lauded as “instrumental to the organization’s success”, Deepa Agrawal is a pivotal and an active contributor to Hindi Manch as co-Chair of the organization’s Baal Yuva Vibhag (Youth Educational Department). Under Ms. Agrawal’s leadership, with her focus on family values and culture, the Hindi Manch youth department has achieved great heights.
Ms. Agrawal’s dedication to community does not stop at just one organization, however. As the current director of the Shishu Bharati School, Agrawal has taught Hindi to more than 150 Grade 3 students and has served as a substitute teacher for cultural classes spanning Grades 1 through 7.
She is also the 2023-2024 President of the Indian Americans for Burlington (IAB), where she has been a creative force: serving as the gazebo director for IAB’s signature Diwali event; coordinating the Rangoli competition and supporting education initiatives; serving as the backstage coordinator for the Republic Day, India Day and Harmony Gala Event; coordinating a scholarship event for Burlington Public School; and actively engaging with Burlington Town Officials, strengthening the link between IAB and the local government.
Her strength lies in her vision and dedication for the next generation’s education, to build a community feeling and having a long-lasting effect on the welfare of people. Beyond cultural endeavors, Agrawal dedicates her free time to artistic pursuits, running art classes for kids, and showcasing her work.
On April 26th, 2024, Ms. Agrawal will be honored as the Outstanding Woman of the Year 2024 at the 21st Annual Woman of the Year Awards gala at the Burlington Marriott Hotel in Burlington, MA. The event will be attended by over 400 community leaders, social activists, entrepreneurs, academicians, and philanthropists.
To register for the gala, please click here.
Here is a Q/A with Ms. Agrawal:
INDIA New England News: Please tell our readers about your work and what you enjoy most about it?
Deepa Agrawal: I focus on being committed, enthusiastic, and thinking ahead. I am passionate about educating the next generation to create a strong community and make a positive impact on people’s lives in the long run. I have been involved with several community organizations.
Hindi Manch:
My role as the Co-Chair of Baal Yuva Vibhag (Youth Educational Department) in Hindi Manch is instrumental to the organization’s success. My contributions extend across various facets of the organization. I engage young people in the history of Hindi and related languages by imparting knowledge in a playful manner. I have been the coordinator for Baal Yuva Manch since 2018 and demonstrated my commitment to using Hindi Manch’s programs to help young people develop self-expression and confidence.
My participation in giving out free painting classes serves as another evidence of how crucial it is to encourage artistic expression in the next generation. My efforts have not only made the Hindi Manch one of the most popular organizations in New England but have also brought the Indian community together, fostering a sense of unity and identity.
Shishu Bharati:
I have been an integral part of Shishu Bharati School for the past 10 years, where I served as the Director. In this role, I not only effectively managed and coordinated volunteers for various school activities but also demonstrated my teaching prowess. I taught Hindi to over 150 Grade 3 students and showcased my versatility by occasionally serving as a substitute teacher for cultural classes spanning Grades 1-7.
In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I took on the crucial role of Student Volunteer Coordinator for the last 4 years. My exceptional leadership and organizational skills were evident as I successfully managed and organized the activities of 400 student volunteers. Moreover, I played a hands-on role in fostering creativity and artistic skills by conducting stone painting classes for 75 kids.
Indian Americans for Burlington:
I have held several positions within the IAB community organization. I started out as a volunteer and worked my way up to become the Director and Secretary before taking on the esteemed role of IAB President. I am also responsible for supporting educational efforts like organizing a scholarship event for Burlington Public School. By regularly interacting with Burlington Town Officials, IAB and the local government are better connected. I participate in a variety of festive activities as a sincere supporter of community spirit, from creating floats.
In addition, I enjoy volunteering for the Indian Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) and Dharma Center of America in Lowell, MA.
As one of the coordinators, I played a crucial role in establishing the Dharma Center of America. My fundraising efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic supported local restaurants and provided hot meals to over 100 families a week for two years. My sustained commitment to community service is evident through my active involvement in cooking hot meals and supporting various community organizations.
I also have had a strong love for arts and crafts since I was a young child. My passion for art and teaching came together when I moved to the USA, and I started free art lessons.
INE: If you’re engaged with any charity or non-profit, please tell us why this organization and what do you do for them?
DA: As I mentioned earlier, I am deeply involved with several charitable and non-profit organizations, including Hindi Manch, Shishu Bharati School, Indian Americans for Burlington, Dharma center of America and others. These organizations hold a special place in my heart because they align with my values of promoting education, preserving culture, and serving the community.
INE: What are your hobbies and interests? Engaging in hobbies or interests brings me joy, happiness, and relaxation.
DA: I dedicate my free time to creating paintings and crafting, often finding inspiration in discarded items. The vibrant colors I use contribute to my feelings of happiness and confidence.
These activities serve as a break from the usual routine and the pressures of deadlines. Immersing myself in the process of creating something beautiful allows me to focus all my energy, leading to a sense of calm and presence in the moment. Enjoying hobbies is an integral part of life, and creative pursuits, such as art, offer a therapeutic escape without the burden of expectations.
Creativity manifests in various forms, whether through painting, crafting, or do-it-yourself projects. The absence or minimal planning in these endeavors allows for the spontaneous creation of beautiful end products, providing personal satisfaction and happiness without the need for external judgment.
INE: In what way do you feel you have most positively influenced or served the local community and your company/organization and professional field?
DA: My commitment to fostering cultural understanding and community engagement is admirable and crucial for the well-being and bringing our community together. I feel my involvement as Co-chair in Hindi Manch Baal Yuva team and a teacher at Shishu Bharati school can positively influence the next generation. By actively participating in Hindi Manch Baal Yuva team activities, I can help preserve and promote Indian culture, language, and traditions. Through events, performances, and educational initiatives, children learn about their cultural heritage and develop a sense of pride and belonging. Engaging children in community service projects and events instills a sense of responsibility and empathy towards others.
By giving back to the community, children learn the value of helping others and making a positive difference in society. Not only that but also children develop essential interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. These skills are invaluable for their personal and professional growth and contribute to building a stronger community. By exposing children to different aspects of Indian culture and encouraging them to learn, understand, and respect cultural diversity, fostering an environment of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Overall, my efforts contribute in shaping future generations who are culturally aware, socially responsible, and committed to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Keep up the excellent work in nurturing young minds and fostering a sense of cultural pride and community spirit.
In my professional life I am a tax consultant. Effective communication is key in tax consultancy, whether it’s explaining complex tax concepts to clients or detailed planning and execution of strategies to meet clients’ needs. As a Tax consultancy we often require quick problem-solving and decision-making in complex situations. I can utilize these skills to address challenges that may arise in organizing community events or managing classroom dynamics, finding practical solutions to ensure success.
INE: What is your rare talent?
DA: Everyone possesses a hidden talent, and I believe mine lies in the ability to transform ordinary objects into stunning pieces of beauty. I thoroughly enjoy decorating and repurposing items to give them new life. Working with vibrant colors brings me immense joy, as I believe in the positive energy and happiness they bring.
INE: Your favorite books?
DA: I enjoy reading books that inspire positive attitudes and share stories of success. Additionally, I have a fondness for comic books.
The Power of A Positive Attitude: Your Road To Success by Roger Fritz
Well-behave Indian Women by Saumya Dave
The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Dr Joseph Murphy
INE: Your favorite quotes?
DA:
Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today .
You learn more from failure than from success.
Life is like Bicycle to keep your balance you must keep moving.
INE: Who inspires you the most?
DA: I’ve been fortunate to cross paths with many inspiring people throughout my life’s journey. However, I’m especially grateful to acknowledge that my parents have been a constant source of inspiration for me.
INE: Your core value you try to live by?
DA: I am incredibly proud of my Indian ancestry and value every aspect of our vibrant culture. I am happy to live by the kind, loving, and communal Indian principles. I think sharing is important because it makes me feel like I’m part of a community and that connects with people.
INE: If you get a chance to meet, who is the one person you would like to meet and why?
DA: If given the chance, meeting Sachin Tendulkar, often called the “God of Cricket,” would be a dream come true for me. I greatly admire him not only for his remarkable cricketing career but also for several other reasons:
Inspiration: Sachin’s journey from a cricket-loving boy to one of the sport’s greatest batsmen is incredibly inspiring. His dedication and perseverance motivate millions, including myself.
Humility: Despite his fame, Sachin remains humble and grounded, a quality I deeply admire and strive to emulate.
Leadership: Sachin’s exceptional leadership qualities, both on and off the field, are admirable. Learning about his leadership philosophy would be invaluable to me as a community leader.
Contributions Beyond Cricket: Sachin’s philanthropic work to improve healthcare, education, and the lives of the underprivileged is commendable. I am eager to learn more about his initiatives and how I can contribute to similar causes.
Personal Growth: Meeting Sachin would offer a chance for personal growth and learning. His insights and wisdom acquired over years of cricketing at the highest level would shape my perspective on life and leadership.
Overall, meeting Sachin Tendulkar would be an unforgettable experience that would leave me inspired, motivated, and enriched in countless ways.
