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The Global Economic Foundation hosted the “EmpowerHer Business Festival” on May 17 in Chantilly, Virginia, drawing more than 700 participants and highlighting the growing presence of women entrepreneurs in Northern Virginia.
The event featured more than 40 vendors representing a diverse range of women-owned and women-led businesses, offering entrepreneurs an opportunity to connect directly with the local community. Attendees explored products and services across multiple industries, helping foster engagement between business owners and consumers.
In addition to business showcases, the festival included cultural performances, karaoke, raffle events, and family-friendly attractions such as a bouncy castle and food vendors.
Organizers thanked participating vendors, volunteers, sponsors, and attendees, describing the event as a “resounding” success. They also noted plans to establish the EmpowerHer Business Festival as an annual tradition in the Northern Virginia community.
“What began as a gathering quickly became a heartfelt reminder of the strength women bring to their families, workplaces, and community, and how powerful it is when they are celebrated and supported. The event not only honored women’s achievements but also inspired many to keep pushing forward, lifting one another up, and building a brighter future together,” said Anita Dehkan, CEO of TitanProz and one of the event organizers.
Dhananjay Kumar, founder and chairman of the India Cultural and Spiritual Center (ICSC), formerly known as India International School, spoke about broader societal challenges and the need for collective progress. Referring to theories about levels of civilization identified by scientists, Kumar said humanity has yet to fully establish itself as a “planetary civilization” because of behaviors driven by competition, violence, and environmental destruction for profit.
He stressed the importance of overcoming such tendencies for long-term survival.
Vishwas Shirgaokar, president of ICSC, emphasized the importance of balancing business responsibilities with personal well-being. Noting that the festival focused primarily on entrepreneurship, he said “de-stressing” is essential for business professionals operating in demanding environments.
“But, if you learn any kind of art, not just Indian art, but any kind of music, dance, it always helps de-stress. It’s proven clinically,” Shirgaokar said, adding that ICSC provides opportunities for individuals to learn music and dance.
Festival Director Indira Kumar said both Dhananjay Kumar and Shirgaokar worked at the World Bank for more than 25 years and are now focused on giving back to society. Referring to her husband, Dhananjay Kumar, she said he has dedicated his post-retirement years to “education and empowerment.”
Mickey Oudit, president of Cosmos Air Purification & Environmental Systems, Inc., one of the event sponsors, said supporting initiatives that encourage “entrepreneurship, community growth, and women-led businesses” remains important to the company.
“We appreciate the efforts of the Global Economic Foundation and all organizers for bringing together local businesses, families, and community leaders on one platform,” Oudit said. He added that Cosmos Air remains committed to supporting community initiatives through “trust, service, and partnership.”
Among the participating businesses was Ammuma’s Kaaram (AK Spices), represented by scientist Tulasikumari Kanipakala. The family-founded business focuses on authentic South Indian flavors and traditional recipes.
Kanipakala also reflected on the importance of women entrepreneurship during the event. “My participation at EmpowerHer was not only about sharing spices with the community, but also about encouraging and empowering more women to pursue entrepreneurship, bring their ideas to life, and take the first step toward building something of their own,” she said.
Arunasri Donthi and Dhivya Sankaran, financial services professionals, said they offer life insurance, long-term care and disability coverage, as well as 401(k) and IRA rollover services, among others.
Evelyn Spain of the Fairfax County Planning Commission encouraged younger audience members to become involved in civic engagement and public service.
“I stand before you just as an individual, but also as a voice joining thousands of people to encourage our women” to speak about health rights and voting rights that she said are currently at stake.
Sixteen-year-old Karishma Sharma, founder of BoldHER Future, a nonprofit organization focused on addressing the gender confidence gap, also spoke about her initiative during the festival. The event additionally featured dance and singing performances by Shweta Shankar, winner of the MS Bharat Elite USA pageant, Sumitra Balaji, and several other cultural groups.
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