On January 25, the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles will host the first-ever USC India Conference, themed “India Rising.” More than 300 attendees will have the opportunity to participate in engaging panel discussions and keynote lectures from experts in tech, healthcare, immigration, and public policy. 

The Genesis

Inspiration for the conference came from the success that the Indian diaspora has enjoyed in the United States. “The Indian diaspora in the US is one of the most successful communities globally. With incomes double that of the national average, and exceptional educational achievements—80% holding a bachelor’s degree, it was clear to us that this group has immense potential,” said co-founder Tejaswa Gavankar, a recent USC MBA alumnus. “We want to create a forum that inspires people to aspire higher and fosters a supportive network to help them achieve those aspirations.”

Co-founder, Raghav Mahajan, a current MBA student at USC, echoed Gavankar adding, “Even though many of us have found success in the US, it’s important to recognize that India is growing at three times the pace of the US economy. Whether it’s your next business idea, career move, or investment opportunity, keeping an eye on India is not just prudent—it’s essential.”

Gavankar and Mahajan drew support from the student leaders of USC’s MBA program and the broader Association of Indian Students at the University. Multiple USC schools and corporate sponsors have also signed on as conference partners. 

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Highlights

The event will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including representatives of the Indian government, venture capitalists, industry leaders, attorneys, and more. In keeping with the theme, “India Rising,” talks and panel discussions will focus on growing sectors in India including tech and healthcare, and deliver insights about how the diaspora can leverage this advantage. 

Highlights:

India’s Leap Forward: A discussion on US-India relations featuring Dr. K. Srikar Reddy and Gunjan Bagla.

India’s Role in Global Healthcare: Insights from Vik Thapar of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and Ray Mathoda of Anchor Loans on India’s place in global pharmaceuticals and healthcare.

The Indian Diaspora: A fireside chat with Kanwal Rekhi, a titan of Silicon Valley on how he has seen South Asians in the entrepreneurship system evolve.

Tech Talent: A discussion with Sumant Mandal from March Capital, Priya Rajan from MUFG, and Kavitha Mariappan from ZScaler on whether India can become the next Silicon Valley.

The Immigrant Dream: A forum where you can have your questions answered by immigration experts like Gladys Gervacio and Sameer Khedekar.

Details about other panels in which students can explore the role and portrayal of Indians in Hollywood and the evolution of cricket in America will be updated on the website. Attendees also will have a chance to connect with author Punita Khanna and receive a signed copy of her book, Mixed Desis.

The beginnings of a legacy

Gavankar and Mahajan hope the conference will mark the first edition of many more. The team has raised funds for a scholarship designed to support outstanding individuals who are committed to advancing the South Asian community while excelling academically and professionally.

Mahajan shared that “the most rewarding part of this journey has been the overwhelming support and mentorship from senior industry leaders both in and out of the USC Trojan family. Their encouragement has validated our efforts and motivated us to build something truly impactful for the community.”

“This is just the beginning,” said Gavankar. “I’m excited to see how future student leaders take this vision forward and shape their unique versions of this conference in the coming years.”

To book tickets to the USC India Conference and learn more about the event, click here.