AboutNIA

Preserving Culture.Building Community.

We are a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to connecting, supporting and celebrating the Indian community across Niagara.

Niagara Indian Association community gathered together

Who We Are

A community built around belonging.

The Niagara Indian Association is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to preserving Indian culture, celebrating heritage and supporting the Indian community across Niagara.

Powered by volunteers, NIA connects families, individuals and community partners through cultural celebrations, service, mentorship and meaningful opportunities to participate in community life. We aim to create a welcoming place for newcomers, families, professionals and everyone who wants to contribute to a stronger Niagara.

Volunteer Driven

Powered by passionate community volunteers

Stronger Together

Uniting families and individuals across Niagara

Making an Impact

Creating meaningful change in our community

What We Do

Culture, service & connection.

Our work brings together cultural celebration, community service, partnerships and opportunities for people of all ages across Niagara.

01

Culture & Heritage

Celebrating festivals, traditions, arts and languages that connect generations to their roots and keep our cultural heritage alive.

02

Service & Volunteering

Giving back through volunteer initiatives, youth engagement, mentorship and programs that support people across Niagara.

03

Partnership

Working alongside local businesses, organizations and community leaders to create opportunities and build a stronger Niagara.

Niagara Indian Association

Meet the people moving our community forward.

Executive leadership

Messages from our leadership.

Two voices. One shared commitment to strengthening community, preserving culture and creating opportunity across Niagara.

Prashanth Unnithan

President

Prashanth Unnithan

President

President's message

A message to our Niagara community

Prashanth Unnithan is an accomplished entrepreneur, construction professional, REALTOR® and Senior Financial Advisor with broad experience across business and community leadership. His professional journey spans construction, real estate, financial advisory, building supplies, procurement, logistics and international trade. Through his businesses, he has developed strong capabilities in business development, operations, strategic relationships and identifying opportunities for growth. His academic background includes an MBA along with studies in export management, international business, business management and commerce.

His ability to work across diverse industries gives him a practical and well-rounded perspective on business and community development. As President of NIA, Prashanth brings entrepreneurial thinking, professional experience and a strong focus on building partnerships and opportunities that can strengthen the Indian community across Niagara.

“Together, we can strengthen our community by creating meaningful connections, supporting one another, and building opportunities that help the Indian community across Niagara grow and thrive.”

Sunny Halani

Chairperson

Sunny Halani

Chairperson

Chairperson's message

A message to our Niagara community

Sunny Halani is a respected community leader, entrepreneur and business investor with a strong presence across the Niagara region. He has built and operated multiple businesses, bringing extensive experience in entrepreneurship, business development, investment and strategic partnerships. His community involvement extends beyond NIA through leadership and support of local organizations, charitable initiatives and major fundraising efforts. He has served as a board member of the Niagara Health Foundation and has supported initiatives including the Niagara Innovation Hub and South Niagara Hospital fundraising efforts. His contributions have been recognized through several community and business awards, reflecting his commitment to both economic growth and community service.

As Chairperson of NIA, Sunny brings business leadership, cultural pride and a strong commitment to bringing families, generations and the wider Indian community together. His leadership is grounded in collaboration, service and the belief that a strong community grows when people, businesses and generations work together.

“My goal is to bring people together through culture, service, business collaboration, and shared pride. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Niagara that supports every family, every generation, and our growing Indian community.”

Board & leadership team

Different strengths. One purpose.

The people supporting NIA's programs, operations and community initiatives across Niagara.

Parth Patel

Parth Patel

Vice President

Abhay Sabharwal

Abhay Sabharwal

Secretary

Rupali Gaikwad

Rupali Gaikwad

Joint Secretary

Abinandan Jakhu

Abinandan Jakhu

Treasurer

Jagadeesh Babu Buddireddi

Jagadeesh Babu Buddireddi

Director - IT, Digital Services

Varun Verma

Varun Verma

Director - Technical Operations & Event Production

Raj Sharma

Raj Sharma

Director - Protocol, VIP Relations & Hospitality

Jebila Sithiraipandi

Jebila Sithiraipandi

Director - Youth, Education & Cultural Programs

Divya Thomas (Sonu)

Divya Thomas (Sonu)

Director - Health & Wellness

Gagan Dadiala

Gagan Dadiala

Legal Advisor

Sampa Shakya

Sampa Shakya

Director - Family Services & Community Outreach

Community Life

There is always a way to get involved.

From cultural celebrations to youth programs, wellness initiatives and community networking, NIA creates opportunities for people and families to connect throughout the year.

Niagara FallsSt. CatharinesWellandNiagara-on-the-LakeThoroldSurrounding Niagara communities
01

Cultural festivals and celebrations

02

Wellness and community programs

03

Youth activities and mentorship

04

Family and community gatherings

05

Seniors outreach

06

Business and community networking

Community Recognition

Celebrating the people who make NIA possible.

Our community is shaped by volunteers, families, partners, supporters and leaders who continue to contribute their time, energy and ideas.

Explore NIA Moments

Get Involved

Find your place in the community.

Become a Member

Join NIA and be part of a community that celebrates culture, builds connections and creates meaningful opportunities across Niagara.

Explore Membership

Partner With NIA

Work with us to support community initiatives, cultural programs, events and opportunities that help build a stronger Niagara.

Start a Conversation

Your Community Awaits

There's a place for you at NIA.

Whether you want to celebrate your heritage, meet new people, volunteer, partner with NIA or simply be part of the community, we would love to have you with us.