North American Indian Chamber of Commerce celebrates Diwali, presents awards   

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The North American Indian Chamber of Commerce (NAICC) hosted its Second Annual Business Awards ceremony November 9, 2024, in Detroit, coinciding with Diwali celebrations, bringing together Michigan’s influential business and political leaders to recognize the outstanding contributions of the Indian American entrepreneurs.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, wearing a traditional Indian scarf, headlined the gathering. “The Indian American community exemplifies the very best of Michigan’s entrepreneurial spirit,” Governor Whitmer is quoted saying in the press release, adding, “Their contributions continue to strengthen our state’s economic fabric and cultural diversity.”

The event drew prominent elected officials including Senator Gary Peters, D-Michigan, Senator-elect Elissa Slotkin, D-Michigan, US Representatives. Shri Thanedar, D-Michigan, and Debbie Dingell, D-Michigan, and Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. All of them acknowledged the significant impact of the Indian American diaspora on Michigan’s economy and what the partnership means to the economic growth of the State of Michigan. Also present in the audience were US district Judge Shalina Kumar and Judge Sima Patel.

President of NAICC Dhaval Vaishnav, in his address, quipped about how the Indian American community is “the Beyoncé of tax-paying demographics.” He emphasized the urgent need for stronger collaboration between state agencies and the Indian American business community to address specific business challenges and opportunities.

Indian Consul General in Chicago Somnath Ghosh, highlighted the strengthening India-US trade relations and encouraged increased engagement between Michigan’s elected leaders and India through MEDC partnerships.

Governor Whitmer presented the Exemplary Business Awards to:

• Rupesh Srivastava (Youngsoft) for Outstanding Entrepreneurship
• Arvin Shah (Skybird Travel) for Lifetime Business Excellence
• Ashok Jain (Corewell Health Wayne/Taylor) for Healthcare Leadership
• Nikil Viswanathan (Alchemy) received the Business Trailblazer Award

Business Trailblazer Award recipient Nikil Viswanathan shared his journey with the audience. Starting at Stanford University, he persevered through a decade of challenges and multiple unsuccessful applications before achieving breakthrough success. His 15th venture proved transformative, leading to a multi-billion-dollar valuation within just 18 months. Viswanathan revealed that his desk was adjacent to Mark Zuckerberg’s, and despite receiving a job offer from the Facebook founder, he chose to pursue his own entrepreneurial path. He credited his parents’ unwavering support and inspiration for his success. He subsequently had interactions with the attendees, particularly the young entrepreneurs, on whom, according to organizers, he “left a lasting impression.”

Partner Excellence Awards for community development and enrichment were presented to: Specialty Medical Center, MAPI, Heartfulness Institute, Mai Family Services, and MLK Gandhi Institute for Non-Violence.

The event, emceed by Fox2 News anchor/reporter Roop Raj, featured colorful Diwali celebrations including traditional dance and music performances presented by local dance groups.

“Tonight’s gathering demonstrates the powerful intersection of cultural celebration and business excellence,” noted Dr. Ashok Jain, chairman of the Board of NAICC. “We’re building bridges that will foster economic growth and strengthen our community’s voice in North America’s business landscape.”

The North American Indian Chamber of Commerce is an advocacy organization aiming to foster connections within the business community and promoting Indian American businesses across the region.