Building Joy & Connection – Our Empower and Connect Holiday Celebration 🎄

Introduction: More Than Just a Celebration

Just hours before this event, I had finished an interview that could quite literally shape the course of my future, a medical program I’ve worked toward for years. Walking out of that conversation, my mind was full of thoughts about purpose, impact, and where I want to go next. And then, only a little while later, I found myself surrounded by the people who remind me why I started this journey in the first place.

At the heart of Empower and Connect has always been one belief, that service and leadership thrive when rooted in community. This winter, our Tompkins Chapter came together not just to celebrate the holidays, but to celebrate the people behind our mission. Our annual holiday gathering was a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate the friendships and teamwork that made this year so meaningful.

The event was filled with laughter, thoughtful exchanges, and a few memorable moments during our White Elephant gift exchange, where strategy met spontaneity, and joy was shared in every direction. But beyond the fun, this celebration reminded me of something deeper: how community and compassion sustain purpose-driven work, in medicine, in leadership, and in life.

Group Photo: “The Heart of Our Chapter”

The Spirit of Empower and Connect

Every project we lead, from global health initiatives to STEM education workshops, depends on the people who bring them to life. Our Tompkins Chapter, made up of passionate, creative, and service-driven students, represents what Empower and Connect stands for: leadership through empathy and collaboration.

This holiday event was a testament to that spirit. Surrounded by familiar faces and new volunteers alike, we reflected on a year of progress, from expanding our Inventor Workshops internationally to deepening partnerships across Kenya, India, and right here in Texas.

And just as importantly, we reminded ourselves that leadership doesn’t always mean standing at the front. Sometimes, it’s about stepping back, sharing gratitude, and simply enjoying the journey with your team.

The Banner Moment: “Mission in Focus”

A Moment of Gratitude

None of this would have been possible without the incredible people who make our organization thrive.

I’m especially thankful for Andrew Man, my close friend and our nonprofit’s Secretary, whose consistency and humor keep every meeting grounded. His thoughtful approach to leadership reminds me daily that structure and heart can go hand in hand.

And, of course, Sanjita Kini, our amazing Director of Strategic Operations, the force behind so many of our events, surprised us with matching holiday sweaters that turned the evening into something truly special. It was a small gesture that reflected something much bigger: the power of teamwork, care, and unity.

I also want to recognize Risha Sahay, our Director of Organization, who’s always there, often working quietly behind the scenes, to support our team on both a professional and personal level. Whether it’s organizing logistics, mentoring volunteers, or simply checking in on everyone, Risha embodies the empathy and reliability that define Empower and Connect’s culture. Her steady presence reminds us that real leadership often happens in the moments no one sees.

Conclusion: Carrying the Spirit Forward

As we move into a new year, I carry with me not just the lessons from our projects, but the laughter and warmth from this gathering. Empower and Connect has always been about blending innovation with empathy, and this holiday celebration captured that balance perfectly.

To every member who showed up, gave their time, and shared their joy — thank you. You remind me that impact begins with people, and people are the heart of everything we do.

Here’s to another year of service, learning, and connection — one project, one laugh, and one sweater at a time.

Matching Sweaters: “A Symbol of Unity”