Schaumburg, Illinois: IDF USA’s annual charity event held in the Chicago area brought together a diverse group of diplomats, policymakers, business leaders, healthcare professionals, and social impact advocates to advance discussions on global collaboration and development initiatives in India and Uganda.
The event, hosted at the Fairfield by Marriott in Schaumburg, focused on key sectors including education, women’s dignity, nutrition, livelihoods, and grassroots development. Organizers emphasized the importance of international partnerships and community-driven approaches in achieving sustainable social impact.
Among the distinguished attendees were Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India, and Sarah Achieng Opendi, Member of Parliament from Uganda, who participated as chief guests. Jayakumar Nair, Delhi State co-convener of the BJP South Indian Cell, attended as a special invitee.
Prominent community figures including Mafat Patel, co-founder of Patel Brothers, and noted oncologist Dr. Bharat H. Barai were also present, alongside several civic and business leaders.
A central highlight of the event was IDF USA’s collaboration with CET Foundation on development initiatives in India, as well as emerging plans for expansion into Uganda. Organizers noted that these partnerships are built on principles of accountability, sustainability, and scalable implementation.
During the program, Anjali Mohanty reflected on the outcomes of the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), where IDF USA and CET Foundation jointly hosted a parallel session titled “Women and Green Jobs.” The discussion underscored the intersection of women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, and economic opportunity.
Speakers at the UN event addressed themes including women’s leadership, agriculture, conservation, STEM education, water sustainability, and environmental awareness in educational institutions. The dialogue also highlighted the importance of upcycling, green financing for startups, and integrating sustainability-focused curricula in schools and colleges.
A key message reiterated during the evening was the urgency of sustainability, with speakers emphasizing that it is no longer optional but essential for future development.
Queenie Mendonca highlighted the organization’s engagement with Ugandan policymakers during a meeting at Uganda House in New York, noting the growing recognition of IDF USA’s initiatives in the region.
According to organizers, IDF USA’s ongoing work in Uganda includes the installation of solar-powered borewells, support for women-led entrepreneurship, development of school infrastructure, and distribution of footwear to students—initiatives aimed at improving access to clean water, education, health, and dignity.
Mendonca also outlined future collaborative plans, including the establishment of a sanitary pad manufacturing unit using banana fiber, implementation of a mid-day meal program modeled on India’s school nutrition system, and broader economic initiatives incorporating inclusive digital technologies.
Cecil Joseph, founder and CEO of IDF USA, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to service, strategic partnerships, and measurable outcomes. The event also acknowledged the contributions of board members and executive teams in advancing the organization’s mission.
Representatives from CompassionShip Edu-Tech Foundation, including Sana Rupani and Aunali Rupani, presented several joint initiatives such as Project Compassion Ship, which supports 25 MBBS students from JJ Hospital in Mumbai. Additional programs highlighted included MAA Container Kitchen, Project FemCare, Ignite STEM Passion, and Project Aashayein.
The event also featured a special segment titled “Honoring Trend Setters in Our Community,” recognizing notable contributors and student innovators, including Anu Malhotra, Sunil Shah, Harish Kolasani, Sanjeev Palaniswami, and a student robotics team.
In her closing remarks, Sarah Achieng Opendi welcomed the proposed initiatives focused on Uganda and encouraged global investors and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in the country. The event concluded with a strong emphasis on expanding trilateral partnerships between India, Uganda, and the United States.
