This is that time of the year when we get a chance to reflect back on the year and be grateful for things in our lives.

When I started my Diversity and Advancement Of Women journey in 2007, I was clueless of how things will shape out. I knew I loved this work and this was my “calling”. My desire to dabble in this work tested me out as I faced many challenges. And then, I found many people along the way who believed in me and enriched my life with their guidance.

So, today I am taking the opportunity to Thank these people who accompanied me and guided me.

1.
Seth Godin Live in Silicon Valley: I was in my MBA program when I first came across Seth’s name. I read his book “Purple Cow” and became a huge fan. In 2007, he visited Bay Area sponsored by “Invincibelle” and “Edithyeung.com“. It meant a lot to me. Thanks to Rajesh Setty, Edith Yeung and SETH himself.

2. Steve Piazzale invited me to his “You’re Hired” TV show: I was invited to speak about what vision I had to empower women in the workforce. Thanks to Steve Piazzale for sharing my vision with his viewers.

3.
Trust Workshop for Working Mother Media: I was invited to speak about “Trust” by Working Mother Media in Houston and Washington. I was inspired by Dr. Flores thoughts to develop this talk. Thanks to Carol Evans for the opportunity to share it with participants of Working Mother Media events.

4. PWC Diversity Leadership Forum: At this event, I was representing the “New voice of Diversity” and later heard Malcolm Gladwell and Condeleeza Rice on topics relevant to Diversity. Thanks to Laura Swapp, Jennifer Allyn, Carol Evans, Ilene Lang, Ted Childs, Malcolm Gladwell and Condoleezza Rice.

5. Global Advancement of Conference in India: I had the opportunity to talk to many professional women in India about the issues they face in the workforce. I believe India will lead the way for Work Life integration for women in the workforce in the coming years. I was excited to work on this project in identifying the burning issues for women in India…it was like home coming. Thanks to Carol Evans, Jackie Glen, Rohini Anand and Tracy Ann Curtis for their leadership in shaping this event.

6. DiversityTweet: Embracing growing Diversity in our world - my first book. This was possible because of relentless efforts of Rajesh Setty, Bill Sherman, Mitchell Levy. Thanks to Carol, Evans, Aida Sabo, Rosalyn O’Neale Taylor, Dr. Rita Boags, Tracy Ann Curtis, Capt. Ken Barett and Rohini Anand for endorsing the book.

7. eBay Work Life Integration talk: I was invited to speak to speak to women in technology about work life issues. Thanks to eBay WIT organization.

8. Women of Personality Project: Rohit Bhargava invited me to be part of this fascinating project. In this I shared a story that is very close to my heart. Thanks Rohit.

9. Friends and Family: Thanks for your constant support. You make life FUN and JOYOUS.

10. Building Trust across Race, culture and Ethnicity: I was invited my to Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange to keynote the Talk on “Building Trust across cultures, business and relationships”. The day before the event, Dr. Carter opened the Smith house to host a reception. He warmed everyone’s hearts with his hospitality. I was thrilled to be part of the Reception. Next day, we had the Basketball court, turned into a packed hall where people gathered to hear my talk. Thanks to to to Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange founders and organizers.