Nikita Patel, a junior at Mansfield High School in Massachusetts, has always had a passion for dancing. “As I grew as a person, my love and passion for dance grew equally,” says Nikita. “Today, I can say without hesitation that I will never stop dancing, as dancing has taught me to express myself through this unique art form.”
On September 19th, Nikita held her Nritya Nipuna, a debut dance recital performed by one who has mastered the art of classical dance. A month prior, Nikita learned about AIF’s Learning and Migration Program (LAMP). She discovered that every year in India, over 72 million people migrate from their villages to find better work, and because of this, their children lose out on an education. She decided to combine her love of dance with her passion for social impact. “I was really inspired that LAMP steps into these situations and provides the children of migrant workers with an education and a better shot at a brighter future,” says Nikita. “I decided to make a special request of all my guests at my dance recital; instead of bringing me gifts to this event, they should donate to LAMP!”
Leading up to the dance recital, Nikita created a personal short video about LAMP and why she was passionate about the cause. She then e-mailed the video to all of her guests and encouraged them to donate. At the dance recital event, Nikita and her parents, Padmanabh & Sheetal Patel, graciously invited Vikram Mahidhar and Nimit Nathwani (AIF New England Council of Governors) to talk about LAMP program to the audience of over 200 people. In the end, Nikita ended up raising over $5,100, which will provide over 100 children an education for one whole year.
“Working with the American India Foundation has not only inspired me to give back to the community, but I have also found a new community of people who want to make a change in the world like I do,” says Nikita. Looking to the future, Nikita plans to help AIF help inspire other young people to get engaged with LAMP.
Would you like to help raise funds and awareness for AIF’s LAMP Program? Take part in our new online campaign that will be running until December 31st of this year: aif.org/lightalamp
