Description

We invite Community Business Network members, Community Partners and invited guests based in India to join us in person for the 2025 India Community Connection on Wednesday, 23 April 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (UTC+5:30).

'Community Connections' are in-person Community Business Network events that bring together members of the Network community and invited guests. These sessions aim to delve into pertinent Diversity Equity & Inclusion topics and challenges relevant to India and the organisation within the market.

This session, themed “Skills for All: Empowering Marginalised Communities,” will spotlight how grassroots organisations are building inclusive support systems—and how businesses can collaborate to scale inclusive change  

Through the presentations and panel discussion, we will spotlight the efforts of NGOs, civic groups, and local organisations in building inclusive support systems for marginalised communities.


What to Expect:

  • Expert Insights – Gain valuable knowledge from professionals representing diverse grassroots organisations.
  • Lived Experiences & Best Practices – Hear real stories and discover practical ways to foster inclusive support systems for marginalised communities.
  • Community Engagement – Connect with local organisations dedicated to skill development and empowerment.
  • Networking Opportunities – Build meaningful relationships with corporate leaders, DE&I practitioners, and community partners committed to making a difference.


Who Should Attend? 

We welcome DE&I leaders, HR professionals, CSR practitioners, NGO representatives and anyone interested in inclusive development and community impact. Join us for this morning of meaningful discussions and connections. 

Each Network Member organisation can nominate three representatives on a first-come, first-served basis. This is your chance to connect, learn, and contribute to the conversation.

 

If you would like to know more about the network or join the network, reach out to us.

Register Now

Practical Information

  • 23.04.25
    10:00 am - 12:00 pm (UTC+5:30)
    New Samrat Restaurant, Seshadripuram, Bangalore
    Add to calendar 23-04-2025 10:00 AM 23-04-2025 12:00 PM 2025 Network - India Community Connection This Network event is exclusive to members and invited guests. Get in touch with our team if you are interested about membership. Asia/Kolkata

Event Speakers

Kiran Nayak

He/Him

Founder, Karnataka Vikalachetanara Samasthe (KVS) and the Society for Trans Men Actions and Rights (STAR)

Kiran Nayak (he/him) is a tribal trans man and a trans rights and disability rights activist, with over a decade of experience in grassroots organizing and advocacy. He is the founder of Karnataka Vikalachetanara Samasthe (KVS) and the Society for Trans Men Actions and Rights (STAR), two pioneering collectives working at the intersections of disability, gender, and caste. Kiran’s work focuses on ensuring access to rights, entitlements, inclusive infrastructure and employment for disabled and trans communities. He played a key role in leading community-led relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to be a strong voice for dignity, visibility, and systemic change

Pritesh Sanjeevani Chandramani Kamble

Head of the Inclusion Unit, CYDA India

Pritesh Sanjeevani Chandramani Kamble I am a professional social worker and counselor with a specialization in Economics and Sex Education. My research work has extensively explored the issues faced by sex workers, the Hijra culture, and the LGBTIQA+ community. Currently, I serve as the Head of the Inclusion Unit at CYDA India, an NGO committed to advocating for the rights, dignity, and livelihoods of the LGBTIQA+ community. I am also the Director of the Rainbowroots Foundation, where I work towards creating inclusive environments and sustainable opportunities for marginalized individuals. As an international speaker, I actively represent my identity as a non-binary individual on both national and international platforms. I am widely recognized as a leading LGBTIQA+ rights activist in Pune. Recently, I authored a research paper titled "Law and Alternative Sexualities," which has been officially accepted for inclusion in the academic syllabus of Pune University. This paper will now be studied by law students as part of their formal education, contributing to a deeper understanding of gender and sexuality in legal contexts.

Shaman Gupta

He/Him

Co-founder, Misfyt Trans Youth Foundation

Shaman Gupta (he/him), co-founder Misfyt Trans Youth Foundation: Shaman has worked for trans rights in India for over 10 years. Shaman has supported thousands of trans youth with shelter home, skilling and employment opportunities in inclusive companies. For his work, Shaman has been recognised as an Echoing Green Fellow, a Dalai Lama Fellow and Indo Pacific Future Fellow. He is also a member of the Grant Making Panel for the International Trans Fund and continues to contribute to the global discourse and building of the trans movement. Shaman has a degree in engineering from NITK Surathkal and is also passionate about equitable education.