Coming to NYC, Authentic Voices of Immigrant Women: Q&A with Arthi Raghavan Idnani

Immigrant Heritage Month is the perfect time to celebrate the journeys of immigrants and their contributions to our society, culture, and economy.   

At New Women New Yorkers, we are holding our own celebration! On June 20, in honor of Immigrant Heritage Month and of World Refugee Day, we’re hosting our annual benefit – Don’t wait to purchase your tickets here, space is limited.  

The event will feature a panel discussion called “Coming to NYC, Authentic Voices of Immigrant Women,” featuring two immigrant women professionals and two of our recent graduates from LEAD, a professional development program.

Meet Arthi Raghavan Idnani, one of our panelists. Arthi is originally from India.

1. What has been your biggest struggle or challenge since you came to the US?

Learning to cope with being away from my family. I thought it would get easier over time or that I would somehow “get used to it,” but that is not the case! Every year is harder than the previous and the only solution I have been able to come up with is to jump on a plane and cover that distance to see my loved ones frequently!

2. What is a dish that you like to cook from your home country? Where do you find the ingredients for this dish in the city?

I love to make Pav Bhaji, which is a famous Indian street food snack. It consists of smoothly mashed mixed vegetables that are served with buttered bread. It brings back very fond memories of my childhood, family and home! I usually find all the ingredients required in Little India (at 28th & Lex).

3. What is the greatest piece of advice you’ve received that has helped you advance professionally?

Be on time and work harder than anyone else around you. It’s simple but it works every time!

4. What is one object that you have carried with you throughout your journey and why?

I can’t think of one object, but one thought that has stayed with me throughout this journey is how lucky I am; to have the opportunities I have had, to have met the people I have, and to share this experience with my family. And I have tons more to look forward to!

5. Who is a role model or inspiration to you?

My parents. They immigrated to a foreign land in search of greater opportunities in the early 1990s. Their hard work and sacrifices ensured a better future for my brother and I. As I moved to America and New York – both very foreign to me – I always kept their stories and advice in mind.

6. What is your greatest survival skill in New York?

Enjoying all cultures that you come across on a daily basis. For example, over time I have gotten as comfortable eating Thai or Mexican food as Indian. Also, getting to know the city inside out has given me an inherent sense of comfort, I am now able to call New York ‘home’.

If you are interested in learning more about Arthi’s immigration experience along with the stories of other immigrant women, don’t miss our annual benefit on June 20 – It will feature a unique panel discussion with women immigrant professionals and LEAD graduates. Tickets are available here.