#USA #San Antonio #Sewa International #Nalanda University #Social Transformation

Empowering Social Change Through Collective Strength

Sewa International celebrated its 20th national conference held at Om Ashram, San Antonio, Texas, on May 2-3, 2026. This significant event brought together a diverse group of over 170 volunteers from 25 chapters across the United States. The conference was themed 'Strategic Horizons & Operational Excellence' and aimed at reinforcing the power of unity and collaboration in driving social transformation.

A Call for a Collective Perspective

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University, who underscored the importance of reevaluating our approach to humanity. He stated, "The way we look at humanity must change, and we must move toward a collective, cosmic perspective, where the unit of concern is not just the individual but the entire ecosystem." This fresh perspective resonates with the Indian principles of sustainable growth and development, advocating for a shift away from solely human-centered policies, which often lead to ecological damage.

Prof. Chaturvedi emphasized the need for reimagining institutions inspired by the ancient model of Nalanda, which was famously known for its inclusiveness and focus on community learning. He remarked that Sewa International mirrors this historic approach as a grassroots, volunteer-driven organization, melding together the teachings of the past with modern-day challenges.

Celebrating Achievement and Progress

The conference also featured addresses from key political figures. State Senator Jose Menendez, representing Texas Senate District 26, commended the organization for its steadfast commitment over the past two decades to support underserved communities. Also present were State Representative John Lujan and San Antonio Councilwoman Ivalis Meza Gonzalez, who expressed their appreciation for the impactful work being performed by Sewa International.

During the event, Suresh Jain, Chairman of the Sewa Board, welcomed attendees and highlighted the conference’s role as a platform for volunteers to inspire and learn from one another. Srikanth Gundavarapu, President of Sewa USA, unveiled the annual report reflecting what he called "compassion in action," which illustrated the profound impact of Sewa's initiatives in the community and beyond.

Looking Forward: New Leadership and Initiatives

In an effort to enhance its focus, Sewa announced new leadership positions aimed at strengthening areas such as community engagement, IT development, and youth leadership. Saumitra Gokhale, a Sewa advisor, rounded off the conference by reiterating the organization's vision for a world unified through service.

To celebrate individual contributions, Sewa honored Ramesh Bhutada and Ramesh Shah, both integral figures in the community, with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Their decades of dedicated service have left a lasting impact, emphasizing the spirit of giving that Sewa embodies.

A Legacy of Service

Founded in 2003, Sewa International has blossomed into a network of 46 chapters and over 5,000 volunteers, facilitating a variety of programs, including disaster recovery, family services, and educational initiatives that serve thousands across the U.S., India, and Sri Lanka. Last year alone, Sewa executed 1,217 events and facilitated 800 outreach programs, showcasing its commitment to social service.

As Sewa International moves forward, the emphasis on collaboration, community, and holistic development remains paramount. Through actions guided by principle and dedication, the organization seeks to create an inclusive society where everyone benefits from collective efforts. The 20th national conference not only celebrated achievements but also set the stage for future endeavors aimed at fostering a more compassionate and resilient world.

Conclusion

The path Sewa International forges emphasizes the necessity of viewing global challenges through a lens that values unity and ecological consciousness. With the wisdom drawn from its historical roots at Nalanda, Sewa remains committed to bringing transformative change wherever it engages, ensuring that its efforts uplift every segment of society.