Non-Profit

Sakhi for South Asian Women

Founded

June 1989

Website

www.sakhi.org

Name

Purvi Shah
Executive Director

Age

34

Hometown

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Current residence

New York City, New York

Education

Rutgers University
Masters of Arts in English
(2000)

University of Michigan
Bachelors of Arts in Anthropology and Comparative Literature
(1994)

Work Experience

Sakhi for South Asian Women
Executive Director

Various arenas including education, non-profit, and media.

Ethnicity

Indian

About the non-profit

Sakhi for South Asian Women, a community-based organization in the New York metropolitan area, seeks to end violence against women in the South Asian community. We work to empower women, particularly survivors of domestic violence. Sakhi strives to create a voice and safe environment for all South Asian women through outreach, advocacy, leadership development, and organizing.

The organization was founded in 1989 by a group of five South Asian women from diverse professional fields such as banking, film, law, and public health. Sakhi, meaning "woman friend," was created to fill a critical need – in spite of an abundance of religious and cultural centers, professional associations, and ethnic-specific groups within New York's large South Asian immigrant population, there was no place for women to address the silenced subject of domestic violence.

Sakhi structured its programming to follow a two-pronged approach in addressing domestic violence within the South Asian community:

We create a safe place with support, friendship, and a full range of culturally-sensitive, language-specific information, services, and advocacy to South Asian women facing abuse in their lives.

We work to inform, actively engage, and mobilize the South Asian community in the movement to end violence against women forever.

After 17 years of working with and being an integral part of our community, we at Sakhi know that in order for families to be healthy and happy, violence and oppression must be eliminated at the heart and root of our communities. We know that community members themselves must be aware of and participate in the dialogue in order for true and sustainable change to occur. Our vision of a society without domestic violence lies within the community's ability to take ownership in the fight to end violence against women.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

My day-to-day responsibilities range from strategic planning, fundraising, financial management, and staff supervision to communications and external relations.

Each day is different and full of deadlines: one day it may be presenting at a conference or finalizing a press release; on another, it may be speaking to funders and expressing the impact of Sakhi's work. Or it may be reviewing our finances or preparing for various audits.

Or most often, it's any of these things all in one day! Each day includes a sensitive juggling act of time-sensitive activities as well as staff supervision, project definition, and ensuring all our important work continues and grows with maximum impact.

My favorite aspect of my job is to be able to learn and contribute in each of these arenas. But I especially love speaking on ending violence and the power of Sakhi's work: watching a community member discuss this taboo issue for the first time and come to a new level of dialogue is priceless.

Most notable milestones

June 1989
Sakhi, the second South Asian women's organization in the US, is founded to promote women's rights by offering services and facilitating community education. Volunteers meet in schools and learn how to serve orders of protection.

1990
Sakhi organizes its first Support Group for survivors of violence.

1991
Sakhi gets temporary office space and hires first staff member. It conducts its first awareness-raising tabling event in Jackson Heights as part of International Women's Day, and marches in and leaflets at the India Independence Day Parade for the first time.

1992
Sakhi premieres its film festival of women directors from South Asia, a unique venue which brought powerful South Asian women's films and films about South Asian women to the New York City public for four years in a row. Sakhi also its hosts first community fundraising dinner and marches in the Pakistan Independence Day Parade as the first women's organization to participate in this community event.

1993
Hosted at Columbia University, Sakhi and Manavi co-organize "South Asian Immigrant Women: Our Social Realities," the first South Asian women's conference in the US.

1994
Sakhi challenges the status quo by ensuring immigrant women are able to self-petition for green cards under the Violence Against Women Act and by inviting SALGA (the South Asian Lesbian & Gay Association) to join Sakhi in the India Day Parade. Sakhi also premieres Life Without Fear, the first docudrama about domestic violence in our community and launches ESL classes for survivors.

1995
With artist Margot Lovejoy, Sakhi helps to stage Break the Silence, a public memorial to heal the wounds of domestic violence at the Queens Museum of Art.

1996
Sakhi organizes a public demonstration in front of the family home of Mohammed Mohsin, who was charged with attempted murder and arson against his wife, Syeda. Mohsin is found guilty of criminal charges four years later.

1997
Sakhi staff attend national meeting hosted by the Center for Third World Organizing in order to develop strategies for recently-launched Court Interpreter Campaign. Sakhi spins Domestic Workers' Committee off into an autonomous organization, which then becomes Workers' Awaaz.

1998
Sakhi organizes first March Against Violence in Jackson Heights to call for an end to abuse and to open a space for survivors to speak out within our communities.

1999
The Women's Health Initiative is formed to provide health access to survivors and to educate providers on abuse. Sakhi helps to launch the national South Asian Coalition Against Violence listserve in collaboration with partners in the anti-violence movement.

2000
The first and only book-length research project focusing on domestic violence within the South Asian American population, "Speaking the Unspeakable: Marital Violence among South Asian Immigrants in the United States," is published by researcher and former Sakhi board member, Dr. Margaret Abraham.

2001
Sakhi organizes peace rallies after 9/11 to advocate against further violence and to decry backlash against South Asians and Muslims as well as domestic violence survivors from these communities. It also hosts its first Celebrating Women's Lives annual gala event.

2002
In memory of a beloved volunteer who passed away in the 9/11 attacks, the Swarna Chalasani Economic Empowerment Fund is launched to provide small grants to qualified survivors to further access to education.

2003
Three South Asian court interpreters are hired as court employees by the Office of Court Administration due to Sakhi's Court Interpreter Campaign.

2005
Sakhi integrated its media efforts through the redesign of its website and semi-annual news magazine, now called Community Bol, to feature interactive elements for community members, and innovative topic and discussion opportunities.

2006
Sakhi proved to be a key player in motivating the Office of Court Administration to roll out an action plan in April 2006 to address court interpretation; organized the first South Asian community meal in Richmond Hill, Queens attended by 750 community members and 40 community-based organizations; testified at a state assembly hearing on suicide amongst Asian women, a forum which got covered in the New York Times, India Abroad, and India West; presented on the opening plenary of the National Coalition to End Domestic Violence conference as well as at national conferences such as National Association of Judicial Interpreters and Translators; received the National South Asian Bar Association's Community Service Award; and, received the Award of Excellence from Study Sphere for our website.

Elaborate on your position in the organization

I currently serve as the Executive Director of Sakhi for South Asian Women, a community-based anti-domestic violence agency in New York City.

As part of my role, I present routinely on Sakhi's 17 years of work to build community awareness and change attitudes which perpetuate violence. I have been a featured speaker at national women's conferences, government convenings, and policy panels. I also provide the oversight, management, and leadership in developing the strategic focus of Sakhi's programs and operations. This includes our direct services and support, community engagement and education activities, fundraising, and general operations. I began working with Sakhi in 1996 as an active volunteer in the Literacy Committee.

What's the niche?

Sakhi is unique because of its methodology which focuses on transforming individuals, communities, and institutions through service delivery, outreach and media work, and policy advocacy.

Sakhi is the sole organization to have served individual survivors, produced numerous films and a public service announcement on ending violence in our communities, as well as fostered state-wide reform on language access in the courts. Sakhi's reach ranges from grassroots activities in Richmond Hill, Queens to national policy development. Very few community-based organizations can stake such a claim.

Sakhi leverages its expertise in anti-violence work in related arenas. Sakhi's depth of expertise in addressing violence gives the organization insight into issues such as women's rights, gender violence, immigration, and the South Asian community.

What makes Sakhi unique is its approach, its continuous determination to build a stronger community, and its persistence in developing programs that are vital, effective, and a model for other South Asian women's organizations as well as mainstream communities.

What's the biggest challenge?

Sakhi has a wealth of talent, ambition, and energy. What we lack is resources – financial, technological, and human. The scope of our work always exceeds the small team of people who make the results happen: our success shows our determination. With more resources, our impact would be deeper, sustainable, and even more far-reaching.

Other challenges include gaps in systems that we need to navigate to support survivors. Whether it is gaps in immigration law, health care, or clinical services in South Asian languages, we work to provide as many options as exist – and create those that don't or foster alternatives.

At the community level, there is still resistance to understanding the pervasiveness of abuse and how it impacts whole families and communities. While more community members are stepping up to address the issue, many still shy away. When our community begins to take accountability, violence will end. But it can be difficult to convince community members of the importance of prevention work and to proactively provide ways to foster healthy relationships.

What's in store for the future?

Over the past five years, Sakhi's new requests for support have more than tripled from 201 in 2001 to 685 in 2006. In the first quarter of 2007, we responded to 198 new pleas, which means we may reach 800 new requests by year-end, an all-time high.

As the community demand of Sakhi's services increases and as we offer more programs, including innovative community campaigns such as our Richmond Hill project. Sakhi will look to strategically define its goals for the next five years. We seek to deepen our community and policy impact as we develop more ongoing and long-term programming for survivors.

Sakhi would like to further its policy success to have national impact and to ensure the voices of our community are reflected in larger institutions and policy arenas. We hope to make our language access campaign in the courts a model for other states so that all immigrant survivors can access justice.

The horizon is limitless: what we aim to do at Sakhi this year is create a strategic plan that deepens our impact while being mindful of our resource level to ensure sustainability. What is guaranteed is that our work will always be relevant, energetic, and innovative.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Sakhi has managed to have amazing success each year through the dedication of the whole organization. We succeed due to our talent, our commitment, our willingness to always learn and grow, and our capacity to celebrate our community's strengths!

Our success comes from building a team committed to the mission with each person contributing different skills, leadership, and insights. It is my honor to lead Sakhi because the organization, every one from the survivors we serve to staff, board, volunteer pool, partners, community members and donors is singularly dedicated and thoughtful in ensuring Sakhi's programs and continued impact.

Sakhi succeeds because it is not afraid to change and grow and to keep learning as our environment and community's needs shift. Our success also builds energy and enables new goals to be set.

Guiding principle in life

Change is necessary though human beings are resistant to it. But change, the strive for something better and a path to make that happen, is what makes life worthwhile. Change is very slow, though, and progress measured over years. What keeps me going is my focus on change over time and having patience.

In addition, joy is essential. In the midst of sorrow, it is amazing to see what art, creation, sisterhood, and love is in the world.

These beliefs help me to focus on the big picture, get beyond the everyday frustrations, and keep an eye on the prize: the long-term march to ending violence and having a world we can all enjoy to the fullest extent.

Yardstick of success

I measure success by seeing if we've met our goal or target or responded as fully as possible given our resources.

Most importantly, I see if a year later whether there is quantitative and qualitative advancement in terms of our projects, activities, and goals, especially our ultimate mission to end violence.

In the work that we do, given Sakhi's empowerment model, it's also important to realize that each person has a different definition of success and that it is the act of decision-making which is key, rather than feeling obliged to society's conceptions of success.

What is important to us is to set goals and see the progress, both in the short and long-term.

Goal yet to be achieved

To end violence.

And all the smaller goals along the way to that goal: serving individual women and responding to the changing needs our community, fostering community leadership to address the issue, and ensuring institutions respond to survivors of violence.

What is exciting is to be constantly achieving goals and also setting new ones: it keeps the work active and moving forward.

Best practical advice

To get a good night's sleep. And exercise. What helps me face the challenges of the day is getting rest the night before and dancing/exercising regularly so that I get a physical release to the day's stresses, challenges, and regrets.

I try to approach each day as a new horizon of possibility. Rest and exercise help me frame each day with some level of promise.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

I've had a lot of support from friends and family though not everyone was so convinced by this work at the beginning. But what has been amazing to see is the level of awareness and support increasing over the years. My family and friends not only support my work but they also foster donations and awareness in others. It is incredible to have such support not only in words but in deeds.

Mentors?

People I work with, women we serve, community partners, my friends, and many others – the list is too long.

Every one has something to teach and I like to learn from everyone around me.

My biggest mentors, though, are my parents whose amazing integrity, truthfulness, compassion, commitment, and partnership is an inspiration.

What motivated you to get started?

When I was a young girl visiting my grandparents in Ahmedabad, India, a woman on our block was burned to death. Rumors suggested her in-laws were responsible. Even as people spoke in hushed comments about this, no one in that family (or anyone else) was ever held responsible, charged, or convicted. It was a failure of justice and our community.

From that experience, and numerous others, I realized the injustices women still face and the cost of silence. So I choose to, in whatever small ways I can, advance women's standing and justice in this world.

Like best about what you do?

That I get to make a difference in people's lives, our communities, and the world. To lead an organization that does the life-changing work that Sakhi does is an honor and privilege. Even on the long, difficult days, it's nice to feel as if I am making a positive difference.

Like least about what you do?

Having to curtail goals, activities, or programs due to a lack of resources.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Either an astronaut, a teacher, or a writer. I've always been fascinated by a number of things and the world around me.

While I never made it up to space, I did get to the NASA site in Alabama as a kid, do some teaching in grad school, and publish my first book of poetry, Terrain Tracks, last year. So I guess some dreams do come true!

What was your first job?

As a babysitter in my neighborhood and then working retail. Not glamorous but I learned a lot from both these teen jobs!

Biggest pastime outside of work

Writing poetry and dancing. While there is so little time for reflection in our fast-paced world, poetry offers a slant of illumination and contemplation. For me, poetry brings joy to the world and a deeper level of feeling, important especially since we go through the days not feeling but in the motion of work.

I also love dance, from girlhood garbas to my starting to learn Kathak dance a decade ago. Recently I've also begun taking Bollywood classes for fun. Dance, like poetry, brings the soul to celebrate.

Person most interested in meeting?

I like to meet all sorts of people but especially big thinkers. This would include folks like Tavis Smiley or Adrienne Rich. But I also love to just listen to conversations on the street and hear people's stories that way.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

I would be interested in meeting a number of women of influence including Oprah Winfrey, Nancy Pelosi, and Barbara Boxer. But I'd also love to meet women advancing micro-credit and small business opportunities.

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. I grew up mainly in the South (Virginia and Georgia).
2. I've had a book of poems published, "Terrain Tracks."
3. I love science and math (enough to get Scientific American at home!).

Three characteristics that describe you

1. Sparkling
2. Intellectual
3. Ambitious

Three greatest passions

1. Conversation
2. Writing
3. Gardens

Favorite book

You shouldn't really ask a writer this question. My full list of favorite books is going to be in a write-up in the next edition of Poet's Bookshelf but I'll suffice with a few for now:

"Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen for the delicious wit.
"The Structure of Scientific Revolutions" by Thomas Kuhn for offering the paradigm shift. "Kartography" by Kamila Shamsie for being a piece of rapture.

And many other books and poems...

Favorite cause

Public radio. I love how stories can get conveyed via radio. The radio bears an amazing intimacy that TV and other media can lose. And there can often be a deeper conversation on radio.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Do check out Sakhi's website, www.sakhi.org and get involved. It takes a community to end violence!

Who would you like to be contacted by?

Anyone interested in ending violence in our communities. I love hearing from community members, other non-profits, and people we have touched with whatever their thoughts, ideas, and suggestions may be. I love when people choose actively to get involved: after all, change is up to us!

Want to get in touch with Purvi Shah?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-desi/~3/B84WLRzyPUI/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/08/vikram-kumar-desi/#comments Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:53:36 +0000 admin The DesiConnect The Young & Professional Profile http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/08/vikram-kumar-desi/

Providing healthcare in developing countries often poses unique challenges: Electricity comes and goes; Internet access is unreliable; and various resources are in limited supply. Addressing these challenges is where Dr. Vikram Sheel Kumar, 30, has found his niche. As co-founder of Dimagi, Vikram leads a team that creates technologies specially customized for the conditions encountered in the developing world. For example, it has co-developed an open-source electronic medical records system in Zambia. Patients have smart cards that contain their medical records. This technology gives healthcare workers access to patients' information in places where telecommunications are limited and paper records aren’t working. Another innovation is Ca:sh, a mobile electronic medical records system. Outreach workers that visit patients have a handheld device, and the Ca:sh software application on it lets them access patients' information and enter updates. To learn more about Vikram and Dimagi, check out this week's Young & Professional Profile.

Company

Dimagi Inc.

Founded

August 2002

Website

www.dimagi.com

Name

Vikram Sheel Kumar, MD
Co-founder, President

Age

30

Hometown

New Delhi, India

Current residence

Boston, Massachusetts

Education

Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology
M.D.
(2004)

Columbia University
Bachelor of Science in Operations Research
(1999)

IIT-Delhi
Bachelor of Technology in Textile Technology
(1994-1995/withdrew)

Work Experience

MIT Media Lab
Research Assistant
2001-2002

Ethnicity

Indian

About the company

Dimagi designs clinical interfaces, health information systems, and mobile technologies to manage global disease.

Dimagi has a unique approach. We build health systems with patient-level interactions at the core. Each time a patient visits a clinic, we collect information. This influences the actual delivery of health care. To accomplish this, Dimagi's exceptional technical team designs elegant and intuitive interfaces on handhelds, cellular phones and low-cost mini-computers.

From the patient-level databases, we create aggregate databases. This is for monitoring and evaluation purposes and helps organizations manage their health projects and comply with granter requirements.

To date, our clients have included NGOs, governmental organizations, academic institutions, businesses, and passionate individuals.

We have co-developed a country-wide open source electronic record system with the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention for Zambia. The project is called Continuity of Care Program and is being currently used in over 30 clinics in Zambia. One of the central designs to the project is a smart card that patients carry with them to their clinic visits. On the card is a patient's longitudinal medical record. The objective of the technology is to improve patient care by giving relevant information to providers in a resource-poor setting where it is not practical to assume an "always-on" electronic record system and central database.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

My focus is on the various research development projects we are doing on personalized medicine. One such project is a home-based cancer coordination system we are developing with Boston Medical Center to make it easier for patients and their doctors and nurses to communicate. The core to the system is a visualization tool through which patients can see what happens once their home-health device sends an alert to their providers. Consider the following, Fedex tracks packages and lets consumers see where the packages are. Similarly, we are doing that with health information for patients at home.

Most notable milestones

Our CTO Jon says that he can honestly tell people that he loves what he does!

Also in collaboration with our clients, Dimagi has implemented several groundbreaking healthcare informatics solutions:

Ca:sh
A mobile electronic medical record (EMR) system for outreach workers in large communities. The Ca:sh system provides a cost-effective means of providing up-to-date medical information to visiting healthcare workers at the point of care. Media Lab Asia, in collaboration with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, is currently field-testing Ca:sh in rural India.

DiaBetNet™
An innovative interactive self-management tool for children with juvenile diabetes. This system has successfully completed a phase one clinical trial and is being enhanced for commercialization in collaboration with a major health care corporation.

HIV Confidant
A PDA-based system for secure dissemination and deanonymization of HIV test results. Invented by the Africa Centre for Health and Population Studies, and implemented by Dimagi, this system is currently being field-tested in South Africa.

Continuity of Care for Zambia
A smart card based electronic medical record system commissioned by the Zambian government in association with CDC-Atlanta, currently being built by Dimagi, Satellife and Salar Inc.

What's the niche?

As a partner recently said, Dimagi has a "demeanor as hungry for interesting work, lacking in ego and capable of quick efficient turn around times." We are all about technical execution – our work markets itself.

What's the biggest challenge?

Research and development funding cycles are long.

What's in store for the future?

Some really smart new MIT hires and a fun NIH contract on home-based coordination of cancer care.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Pace yourself.

Guiding principle in life

Give of yourself in what you do.

Yardstick of success

Quality of team; quantity of projects.

Goal yet to be achieved

Changing the lives of a million people.

Best practical advice

Know when to drop a lead.

Mentors

My parents because they give me the only unbiased advice I can get.

Like best about what you do?

Our ideas.

Like least about what you do?

The long process to sell our ideas.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Neurosurgeon.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Writing, Indian cricket team, my nephew Neel.

Person most interested in meeting?

My great great grandfather. Would love to see how different we’d be.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

Richard Branson. I like his style.

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. I won a couple wooden spoons in golf.
2. I bicycle through winter in Boston.
3. I write a column for the Times of India.

Three characteristics that describe you

1. Optimistic
2. Practical
3. Brown

Three greatest passions

1. Late night cereal
2. Good music
3. Innovation

Favorite book

"Arrowsmith" by Sinclair Lewis

Favorite cause

Build solid technology that can change that way we interact with our health.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

Smart, technical Dimagis who are inspired by important and interesting work.

Want to get in touch with Dr. Vikram Sheel Kumar?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

Credits

Interview by Sheena Singh
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/08/vikram-kumar-desi/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/08/vikram-kumar-desi/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-desi/~3/RWQxappoEYk/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/nasalsa-annual-desi/#comments Fri, 08 Feb 2008 02:01:29 +0000 admin The DesiConnect Announcements http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/nasalsa-annual-desi/ If you are interested in attending a conference with influential speakers, useful and practical workshops, Career fair, and interesting people from all over the globe then NASALSA is the place to be. Come out February 15-17 to Los Angeles and learn about the Legal South Asian World as well as make great connections.

NASALSA is an organization dedicated to creating a strong network and community among South Asian law students and legal professionals throughout the U.S. and Canada.

"Reflecting Back, Reaching Forward: Building on a Decade of Progress"
Where: NASALSA’s 10th Annual Conference will be hosted by University of California, Los Angeles School of Law.

When: The conference will be held Presidents' Day Weekend, February 15-17, 2008.

What: Seeking to build an interconnected and informed community of South Asian legal professionals who will be effective contributors to the fast-paced, globalizing, and dynamic legal world.

Why Should you Attend?

Over 15 Panels and Workshops focused on exposure to various career opportunities – Meet 100 attorneys and other professionals

Prominent Speakers: Professors, Civil Rights Attorney, Judges & more

Keynote Speakers on South Asians’ Role in Politics For more information: Visit the Conference website or join the facebook group.

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/nasalsa-annual-desi/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/nasalsa-annual-desi/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-desi/~3/Q23OXBSrZNs/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/kahani-desi/#comments Fri, 08 Feb 2008 01:10:49 +0000 admin The DesiConnect The Non-Profit Spotlight http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/kahani-desi/

Many publications in the United States target adults of specific ethnic groups. But surprisingly, until recently no publication targeted children of a specific ethnic group. Three years ago, though, Kahani magazine became a one-of-a-kind publication by offering contemporary stories, features, and illustrations especially for children of South Asian heritage. The quarterly magazine aims to entertain, educate, and empower children ages 6 to 11 with content that speaks to their day-to-day experiences. Additionally, kids can feel less isolated in knowing that other kids share their life experiences. The magazine is printed on thick, glossy paper with brilliant colors. It contains no advertising, in keeping with the belief that kids don't need to be exposed to even more ads than they already are, and none of the staff or contributors are paid. Kahani just won a Parents' Choice Award, the ultimate seal of approval for children's media, so learn more about the magazine in this week's Nonprofit Spotlight.

Non-Profit

Kahani Media

Founded

August 2004

Website

www.kahani.com

Name

Sunitha Das
Monika Jain
Sonia Chopra
Partners

Hometown

Newton, Massachusetts

About the non-profit

Kahani is the only magazine of its kind in the US – original, contemporary stories, features and illustrations created specifically to entertain, empower and educate kids of South Asian descent growing up in the US. All our contributors are extremely talented. Many are professional writers and artists and others are upcoming talent. The amazing thing is no other ethnic group in the US – not the Hispanics, not the Chinese – has created such an offering for its children. And, believe it or not, no one – no one – at Kahani is paid.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

Monika is the Founding Editor. She brainstorms the theme and features of each issue, recruits and coordinates the writers and illustrators, and edits their work.

Sonia is the Creative Director. She builds and maintains the entire website and is our go-to person in general for all things design and graphics-oriented.

Sunitha is the Business Director. Basically, she handles the PR and marketing, the customer database and finances.

Monika and Sunitha are the basic staff. They handle all the operational stuff: fulfilling subscriptions, bulk mailings, renewal reminders, dealing with the printer, the fulfillment house, the post office, all the hundreds of details of publishing a magazine. They are headquartered in Monika's attic : ).

Most notable milestones

Kahani just won a Parents' Choice Award! This is the ultimate seal of approval any children's product can receive and a huge validation of the quality of Kahani's content and presentation. What gives us fierce pride is that Kahani won alongside the likes of Sesame Street Magazine and American Girl – both of whom have deep-pocketed parent entities.

And, speaking of awards: last year, Kahani won two other mainstream recognitions from the Association of Educational Press (AEP) and the National Association for Multicultural Education (NAME).

Not bad for a little literary magazine, huh?

What's the niche?

Pick up an issue of Kahani: just about everything!

The quality of the paper we print on is thick and glossy. No other kids' magazine uses anything like it. The color! Since we don't have in-house artists and recruit different ones for each issue, no two issues of Kahani are alike. Each one is gorgeously illustrated and the art really pops out at you.

The content is absolutely unique as well. Take our current issue whose theme is "Making Music." The issue has three stories. The lead (on the pains of practicing an instrument) is written by Narinder Dhami of "Bend It Like Beckham" fame and illustrated by Ambreen Butt, a Lahore-trained contemporary miniaturist who recently won Boston's Museum of Fine Arts' Maud Morgan Award. One of the features in the issue teaches children basic "taals" or rhythms through the use of popular nursery rhymes. Kids can then get on our website and listen to actual demonstrations of the taals. The person spotlighted in this issue is Indira Mahajan, an opera singer of South Asian descent (the philosophy of this column is to highlight non-traditional success stories as far as possible).

So we're the perfect mix of what kids growing up here experience: the mainstream with a distinct South Asian flavor. That's our unique niche.

What's the biggest challenge?

The number one challenge we face today is awareness! Just getting the South Asian community in North America to know we exist is an ongoing struggle. Since subscription fees barely cover printing and mailing costs, and since we take absolutely no ads (the last thing kids need is to be bombarded with yet more advertising), we have no – as in zero – marketing budget. So we rely heavily on word-of-mouth buzz and press coverage.

The other challenge we face is the notion South Asian parents seem to harbor that contemporary literature is unnecessary – and certainly not worth paying for! Being secular and in English appears to go against the prevailing attitude that language and religion are the only true way to stay connected to one's heritage.

Sunitha: I really would like to tell all South Asian parents: I agree with you on the importance of our kids knowing their mother tongue and their religious roots – but let's not stop with that. Let's also include what's pertinent to our kids, what surrounds them on a day-to-day basis, what reflects their life experiences. It can only enrich them. It's a lot less isolating to know that their experiences are shared by other kids just like them.

What's in store for the future?

We would love to be the number one contemporary resource for South Asian families. The magazine, a quarterly, is currently directed at the elementary school level (ages 6-11) and is only the first step. We think there is a huge void for the tween and teen populations as well that we would love to address.

We also plan to start a blog in the coming months based on the same model as the magazine: by harnessing all the knowledge, expertise, experience and education in the South Asian community on one central platform so everyone can benefit from it.

Guiding principle in life

We, the adults, the parents, must create a community for our kids in this country that is broader, and less region-based, in its inclusiveness.

Yardstick of success

When every South Asian family subscribes to Kahani and every town and school library carries copies to educate the rest of the world!

Goal yet to be achieved

Breaking even on the costs!

Mentors?

Our editorial board who stand unfailingly by us for every issue:
Lisa Diercks, Director of the Graduate Program, Emerson College
Nancy Gruver, Publisher at New Moon
Uma Krishnaswami, writer
Mitali Bose Perkins, writer

What motivated you to get started?

The fact that when we volunteered at reading time in our kids' schools we were invariably reading stories about maharajahs, elephants, snakes, spells and other exotifying topics.

Like best about what you do?

Sunitha: I had no idea about the depth of skill of South Asian writers and illustrators until I joined Kahani.

Like least about what you do?

Explaining to people that Kahani is not about us making our fortunes and that the subscription money does not go into our pockets!

Who would you like to be contacted by?

In the long run, any publisher, mainstream or otherwise! South Asians are one of the fastest growing populations in this country and in order to serve them we'd like to partner with anybody (including philanthropic millionaires!) who can help take us to the next level.

In the short run, anyone with design, editorial, circulation, networking/marketing experience who would like to volunteer some time to Kahani.

Want to get in touch with Kahani?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

Credits

Interview by Saba Nasser
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/kahani-desi/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2008/02/07/kahani-desi/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-desi/~3/mPIqoqpZEQw/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ausma-khan-desi/#comments Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:44:43 +0000 admin The DesiConnect The Young & Professional Profile Media http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ausma-khan-desi/

If you're a Muslim girl growing up in North America, you can feel isolated and alienated at times. Fortunately, however, Ausma Khan is striving to inspire, celebrate, and enlighten young Muslim females with Muslim Girl Magazine. The publication tells the real-life inspirational stories of North American Muslim teens and college students. It also focuses on education and empowerment through its series "Women to Watch," which profiles Muslim women who are making positive contributions to the world. Additionally, the magazine has features on popular culture and the arts. As Editor-in-Chief, Ausma, 38, hopes the magazine will not only inspire Muslim girls, but also reshape the public's perception of Muslims by dispelling misconceptions and fostering dialogue between communities. She wants Muslim girls to grow up and be empowered to participate in and shape important public debates. To learn more about how Ausma is inspiring Muslim girls, check out this week's Young & Professional Profile.

Company

Muslim Girl Magazine

Founded

2006

Website

www.muslimgirlmagazine.com

Name

Ausma Khan
Editor in Chief

Age

38

Hometown

Toronto, Ontario

Current residence

Evanston, Illinois

Education

Osgoode Hall Law School
Ph.D. International Human Rights Law
(2004)

University of Ottawa
LL. M., International Human Rights Law
(1996)

University of Ottawa
LL.B. (1994)

University of Toronto
B.A., English Literature & Sociology
(1991)

Work Experience

Muslim Girl Magazine
Editor in Chief
2006-present

Northwestern University
Adjunct Faculty
2005-2006

York University
Adjunct Faculty
2000-2005

Canada Bay Consultants
Counsel
1998-1999

Ethnicity

Pakistani

About the company

Muslim Girl Magazine is published by ExecuGo Media, a company that publishes "media that matters."

We have offices in New York, Chicago and Toronto. We are distributed throughout North America and can be found at Barnes & Noble and Borders in the United States, and in the Indigo-Chapters chain in Canada.

Our vision is to celebrate, enlighten and inspire Muslim girls. We are committed to telling the stories of real Muslim girls in a celebratory and life-affirming spirit. We want to connect young Muslims who may feel alienated or isolated from one another and to empower them by showing them the inspirational achievements of other Muslim girls like themselves.

We also focus on girls' education and empowerment by profiling a series of very impressive Muslim women as "Women to Watch," including Mishal Husain, Dr. Massouda Jalal, Zainah Anwar and many more.

Another important aspect of our editorial vision is to focus on the Muslim contribution to and perspective on the arts, as popular culture and artistic expression are two areas where Muslims are seriously under-represented. These areas help shape popular perceptions of Muslims, thus it's important for us to speak up and define ourselves.

Finally, Muslim Girl Magazine has a broader vision. We believe that by sharing stories about Muslim girls and women, we are educating a much larger audience and clearing up misunderstandings and misconceptions people may have about Muslims. We are engaging in a broader dialogue between communities and we hope we are helping to shape the national conversation about Muslims.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

As the Editor in Chief, I work with a very talented team to develop story content and visuals for each issue of Muslim Girl. We set an editorial calendar for the year and then seek out newsworthy stories that will interest our readers. I work with writers to ensure that each story fits within the parameters of our editorial vision and with our Creative Director and Publisher, to ensure that the high standards of the publication are met in every department.

I liaise with other groups and organizations on Muslim issues and stories, assist in marketing Muslim Girl and handle press interviews and sponsorships that the magazine has an interest in.

I also write some of the magazine's content and edit all the text that appears in the magazine.

Every day I learn something new and have to lend a hand in a new area, which is what makes publishing such an exciting and exacting experience.

Most notable milestones

January 2007: launch of our premiere issue to an extremely positive reception.

March 2007: a six story special feature on the challenges faced by girls and women in Afghanistan.

April 2007: profiled in the New York Times Style section.

May/June 2007: an exclusive interview with Congressman Keith Ellison and his daughter Amirah Ellison.

What's the niche?

We are the first publication to tell the stories of North American Muslim teens and college students. We have a uniquely North American perspective and address the issues most on the minds of Muslim girls in North America.

What's the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge is to follow through on an editorial vision that is substantive, thought-provoking, and meaningful to our audience while remaining true to Islamic values and respectful of differences of opinion.

What's in store for the future?

July/August 2007: commemorating the anniversary of the Srebrenica massacre with Bosnian-American Muslims.

Focus on girls across the country who embrace change.

September/October 2007: our Ramadan Special Edition, a blockbuster!

Expansion to other titles and new markets.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Know the issues facing the Muslim community and keep story content fresh and relevant to the lives of our primary audience.

Keep educating yourself about industry standards and trying new things even if there's no guarantee of success.

Guiding principle in life

Live a life committed to the Islamic – and universal – values of justice and equality for all. And where you falter, seek refuge in the wisdom and compassion of the Creator.

Don't let others distract you with discussions about the trivial or obsessions with the rituals of observance. Focus on the major themes of the Qur'an and live accordingly.

Yardstick of success

Response from the North American Muslim community. Do they find our magazine to be an authentic reflection of Muslim values and priorities? Are Muslim girls enlightened and inspired by Muslim Girl?That's the best measure of how we're doing.

Number of people reading or referring to Muslim Girl Magazine.

Ability to affect people's perceptions of Muslims for the better.

Ability to bring major advertisers on board.

Goal yet to be achieved

Appearing on the Oprah show!

Meeting and interviewing my personal hero, Nobel Laureate, Dr. Shirin Ebadi.

Best practical advice

Patience, tact and a presumption of good faith are the best tools for working with any professional team and with the people you want to profile.

The determination to learn new things can overcome any knowledge or skill set deficiency.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

From my parents, "you'll excel at anything you choose to do."

From my husband, "I really believe you can make a difference with this project – and writing is what you've always loved."

Mentors?

The best example of good conduct and dedication to others began for me at home. My parents are my role models and have shown by their example how to live meaningful lives with a higher purpose. My mother is an unstoppable force of nature, fearless and selfless. My father is undoubtedly the world's best listener and has been a lifelong dispenser of sage advice.

My mentors in academia are Professor Dorothy Moore and Professor Marek Tufman – two excellent teachers who motivate and inspire their students every day. They make students care about what they're learning and help them take knowledge beyond the classroom.

My heroes are Dr. Chris Giannou, Dr. Shirin Ebadi, Professor Khaled Abou El Fadl, Aung San Suu Kyi, Kenneth Roth and all those who fight in the trenches with human rights movements around the world.

What motivated you to get started?

The desire to make a difference in the world and specifically to help empower a generation of Muslim girls who will grow up to participate in and shape the meaningful debates and issues of their times.

Like best about what you do?

Meeting wonderful new people and hearing inspiring stories on a daily basis. Learning from those I work with, people with remarkable talent and insight.

Like least about what you do?

Lack of hours in the day to fit in all that Muslim Girl wants to accomplish.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A writer. Specifically, a mystery novelist.

What was your first job?

Selling chimney toppers by telephone. I was a dreaded telemarketer.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Reading. Spending time with my vast assortment of nieces and nephews.

Person most interested in meeting?

Dr. Shirin Ebadi. She is a human rights lawyer who has worked systematically for women's and children's rights all her life, at great personal cost. She does so from within the Islamic tradition, as a believer in Islam and as a believer in justice and equality for all. She is a woman of immense moral integrity and a shining example of the difference that one person can make in her lifetime.

I would love to know how and why she embarked on her struggle for change and what advice she has for women around the world who want to follow in her footsteps.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

From a business perspective, I'd love to know Graydon Carter's insights on publishing Vanity Fair. The magazine has a fascinating mix of celebrity interviews and hard-hitting journalism, so I'd like to know he achieves that balance.

I'd also love to meet the writers Mahmoud Darwish, Fatima Mernissi, Assia Djebar and Julian Barnes. Unfortunately, the chance has passed to meet greats like Frank Herbert, Pablo Neruda and Nizar Qabbani, but they were all on my wish list.

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. I wrote my first play at age 11.
2. I love science fiction and fantasy and am a huge Harry Potter fan.
3. I've studied Arabic at Bir Zeit University.

Three characteristics that describe you

1. Loyal
2. Artistic
3. Organized

Three greatest passions

1. Reading
2. Writing
3. Traveling

Favorite book

No question, it's "Dune" by Frank Herbert.

Favorite cause

Girls' education in Afghanistan. Schools for girls around the world. I support the International Development and Relief Foundation and the Central Asia Institute founded by Greg Mortenson.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

If you've got a great story idea or are a fascinating Muslim girl who would like to be profiled in Muslim Girl Magazine, please write to us.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

• Professional writers with a specific story to pitch.
• Advertising sales representatives who know the Muslim community well and who have a proven track record in sales.
• Media that is interested in a story on our magazine or in any of the stories featured in our magazine.
• Libraries, schools, conferences, panels and events on Muslim issues, specifically issues that affect Muslim women and girls.
• Organizations or ventures that would like to partner with Muslim Girl in developing exciting new ventures and products.
• Muslim women who stand out as "Women to Watch."

Want to get in touch with Ausma Khan?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

Credits

Interview by Saba Nasser
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ausma-khan-desi/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ausma-khan-desi/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-desi/~3/G6UfOzY1TM4/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/muckittees-desi/#comments Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:00:34 +0000 admin The DesiConnect Announcements http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/muckittees-desi/

Our featured advertiser this week is Muckittees.com, your destination to find t-shirts that express yourself. The goal of Muckittees.com is to make you laugh, all while wearing a shirt that will definitely catch the eyes of others.

Check out the variety of tees and descriptions on its site and who knows you may possibly find yourself buying a shirt for yourself or even 10 for your closest friends, family or co-workers! Afterall, the holidays are fast-approaching us...

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/muckittees-desi/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/muckittees-desi/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-desi/~3/0uO68j6kMH8/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ali-chaudhry-desi/#comments Tue, 20 Nov 2007 09:52:45 +0000 admin The DesiConnect The Non-Profit Spotlight Community Outreach http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ali-chaudhry-desi/

Ali Chaudhry works to mobilize Pakistani-Americans and foster constructive dialogue about Pakistan on Capitol Hill. As Executive Director of the Pakistani American Leadership Center (PAL-C), 25-year-old Chaudhry, leads an organization that strives to build stronger ties with U.S. Congress and get Pakistani-Americans more politically active. Since its founding in May 2004, PAL-C has helped create the bipartisan Congressional Pakistan Caucus, which today has 67 members of Congress in it. The caucus aims to improve bilateral ties between the United States and Pakistan, and to promote dialogue between Pakistani-Americans and their representatives in Congress. In 2005 and 2006, PAL-C worked with the caucus to draw Congress's attention to the October 8, 2005, earthquake in Pakistan. It also mobilized Pakistani-Americans to petition their members of Congress for earthquake relief aid. As the 2008 elections approach, PAL-C is striving to get its members involved with voter registration and informational drives. To learn more about Ali and the work of PAL-C, check out this week's Nonprofit Spotlight.

Non-Profit

Pakistani American Leadership Center (PAL-C)

Founded

May 2004

Website

http://www.pal-c.org/

Name

Ali Chaudhry
Executive Director

Age

25

Hometown

Born in Lahore, Pakistan

Current residence

Arlington, Virginia

Education

Ohio Wesleyan University
Bachelor of Arts
Majors: Political Science, Psychology
Minor: History
(2004)

Work Experience

Pakistani American Leadership Center
Executive Director, November
2006-present

Political Consultant
November 2004-November 2006

Pakistani American Leadership Center
Legislative Assistant
August 2004-October 2004

Center for Defense Information
Research Assistant
June 2004-August 2004

Ethnicity

Pakistani, South Asian

About the non-profit

The Pakistani American Leadership Center was formed in May 2004 to fill an important void in the Pakistani American community - representation of Pakistani Americans and Pakistan on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

PAL-C thus was initiated with a vision of building ties with the US Congress through educating and mobilizing the Pakistani-American community at large. Successful and reputable Pakistani-Americans took a lead in making this vision a reality.

As PAL-C matured, it soon became the primary resource for all Pakistani-American political issues through its information library, its relationship with the Pakistan Caucus and Congress at large, and lastly in its dual role as a conduit for education and awareness amongst Pakistani Americans and the larger American community

Today, PAL-C has one of the largest memberships in the Pakistani American community, with five National Directors and eight Regional Directors. PAL-C mobilizes the community to take a more proactive role in the American political arena and encourages our members to be educated, informed, and politically active. Moreover, PAL-C strives to introduce a constructive dialogue on Pakistan and the challenges faced by its people, and to bring about a positive change in the homeland through working directly with the people of Pakistan.

Through its youth organization, Rising Leaders, PAL-C also facilitates opportunities for Pakistani American youth to intern/work on the Hill, to train for political office, and to be volunteer for social work.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

Maintain the PAL-C office, supervise office staff, communicate with PAL-C National Directors and Regional Directors, conduct meetings with PAL-C members as well as with offices on Capitol Hill, possibly prepare for upcoming events and/or attend events, plan and execute community campaigns, update the website with latest news and articles, etc.

Most notable milestones

The Congressional Pakistan Caucus was initiated with PAL-C's help, and in the summer of 2004 PAL-C was responsible for facilitating 60 Members of Congress to join the Caucus. This is a feat achieved by few minorities in the history of the United States.

The Caucus exists for two primary purposes: first, to increase minority participation of Pakistani-Americans in their respective districts and second, to strengthen bilateral ties between Pakistan and the United States. Currently the membership of the Caucus stands at 67, under the able leadership of Honorable Co-Chairs Ms. Sheila Jackson Lee and Mr. Dan Burton.

From 2005-2006, PAL-C worked closely with the Caucus to bring attention on the recent earthquake tragedy in Pakistan and will continue to press the issue for a long time to come. PAL-C mobilized the Pakistani-American community to petition Members of Congress for greater support to Pakistan after the October 8th earthquake. Senate Resolution 356 and House Resolution 561 for post-Earthquake relief were introduced after a successful “Day on the Hill” in which PAL-C brought together Pakistani American organizations and leaders to petition Congress for assistance to Pakistan.

What's the niche?

PAL-C is the only community organization with a professional office and staff in Washington, D.C. The organization itself is a political advocacy group and focuses on individuals that possess a keen desire to be politically informed and involved. With our unique network with members of Congress and public officials both in Pakistan and in the United States, we are in a position to impact bilateral policy on both sides by educating policymakers on issues of concern. We are also the only organization to regularly arrange community meetings with government officials, as well as intimate meetings between policymakers from Pakistan and USA.

What's in store for the future?

For PAL-C, the future holds great promise. We are rapidly expanding our office staff and building on our existing relationships to truly become a nation-wide phenomenon. As we move closer to 2008, PAL-C will focus on the elections and get its members involved in voter registration, fundraising, party campaigns, national conventions, and information drives.

For me, I am looking forward to going to law school and pursuing a degree in international law.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Work hard, be honest, and let your results speak for themselves.

Guiding principle in life

“Love whatever you do.” I always follow my passions and find myself happier when involved in projects I care deeply about.

Goal yet to be achieved

Earn a degree in International Law.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

My mother has always been supportive of my interests. She takes great interest in PAL-C and provides useful advice frequently.

Mentor

My Uncle (Father's Older Brother / Taya). Taya Abu, as I fondly call him, has been the inspiration for my success and I have always relied on his support and wisdom. Coming from a family of businessmen, he and I stand apart as we both possess a passion for politics and philanthropy. His unflinching support has led me to become the man I am today.

What motivated you to get started?

My passion for Pakistan. I care deeply about Pakistanis and possess a keen desire to help bring about a positive change for the nation of 150 million. I had worked previously in different avenues where I felt restricted in my capacity to contribute towards human development in Pakistan, but then I got involved with PAL-C where I feel right at home.

Like best about what you do?

Bringing together people for a common cause! It's exhilarating to see change take place in front of your eyes and know that you were somehow responsible for it.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Spider Man.

What was your first job?

In college, I was a help desk technician for information systems. I got to answer phone calls from people who were annoyed at not having any internet. I would tell them that we were having "load shedding" problems. They wouldn't get it.

Biggest pastime outside of work

People have time outside of work?

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

Bill Gates. Not only is he an innovator and a revolutionary businessman, but most importantly the philanthropic work he is doing in underdeveloped countries in Africa and Asia is remarkable. He is a role model and I would love to pick his brain in a private setting.

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. I was born in Lahore, Pakistan and I absolutely love the place.
2. I am a huge cricket fan….as in the sport, not the insect. That would be weird.
3. I’d like to learn more languages – preferably Mandarin and Farsi.

Three greatest passions

1. Pakistan
2. Politics
3. History

Who would you like to be contacted by?

PAL-C works to increase recognition of Pakistan's strategic, economic and cultural significance with Members of Congress, US media and academics, to build relationships with other reputable and recognized organizations or institutions such as think tanks, non-profits and universities, and to educate the American community on issues of common interest.

In pursuit of such goals, I would like to build friendships with other non-profits and community organizations, as well as young leaders and political activists. I personally welcome any exchange with people interested in Pakistan affairs and/or political activism, so that I can learn from their experiences and build long-lasting friendships with like-minded people.

Want to get in touch with Ali Chaudhry?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

Credits

Interview by Saba Nasser
Introduction by Preeti Aroon
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ali-chaudhry-desi/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/11/20/ali-chaudhry-desi/