A Milestone Event: New American Scholars' Founder, Riyah Patel, Attends the NHWF Women Building Community Luncheon

By the New American Scholars Team 

New American Scholars (NAS) is excited to announce that our Founder and President, Riyah Patel, had the honor of attending the prestigious New Hampshire Women's Foundation (NHWF) Women Building Community Luncheon on October 19, 2023. The luncheon served as a platform for a constellation of leaders, advocates, legislators, and politicians who are committed to fostering opportunity and equality for women and girls in the Granite State. 

A Pivotal Grant and a Platform for Voices 

We are particularly thrilled to share that NAS has received a second round of funding from the Women and Girls of Color Fund, an accolade that attests to the significance of our mission. Riyah Patel had the privilege of participating in the Grantee Showcase where she eloquently shared the NAS mission, the work we do, and our vision for an equitable educational landscape in New Hampshire.  

Our vision is clear: we aim to level the educational playing field for refugee students, fostering both academic and holistic development," said Riyah. "We recognize that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it requires community involvement, mentorship, and above all, a commitment to social equity and diversity. That's what New American Scholars is all about." 

Elizabeth Nyamayaro: A Source of Inspiration 

The luncheon featured a keynote address by the award-winning humanitarian, Elizabeth Nyamayaro. A champion of gender equality on a global scale, Nyamayaro is perhaps best known for spearheading the HeForShe movement, a UN-backed initiative that has sparked over 1.2 billion conversations about gender equality worldwide. 

Her words resonated deeply with the mission of NAS, highlighting the importance of collective work and advocacy in challenging the status quo. "The principles Elizabeth stands for—social justice, equality, and challenging established norms—are deeply aligned with the core values of New American Scholars. She reminds us that the work we do has a ripple effect that transcends borders," added Riyah. 

Honoring a Legacy 

The event also included a heartfelt tribute to the Honorable Martha Fuller Clark, who is retiring from the NHWF Board at the end of this year. Recognized for her lifetime of service to the women and girls of the Granite State, Martha Fuller Clark's work embodies the ideals that organizations like NAS strive for: a fairer, more inclusive world for all. 

Moving Forward 

As we continue to aim for our ambitious goal of extending our services to every refugee family in New Hampshire, the support and recognition from organizations like the NHWF serve as a testament to the urgency and potential impact of our mission. It also serves as an affirmation that when communities build bridges, rather than barriers, we pave the way for a future where every student, regardless of their background, can truly succe

In closing, Riyah noted, "This event wasn't just an opportunity for NAS; it was a clarion call for all organizations and individuals committed to social equity. Let's continue to be bold and courageous in effecting real and lasting change." 

It’s more than just a mission for us; it’s a vision for a more equitable world. And as Elizabeth Nyamayaro has shown us, the power of a vision can indeed be transformative. 

For more updates on New American Scholars and how you can be a part of our journey, stay tuned to our website and social media platforms.