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D OWNERS GROVE, Ill. (March 7, 2026) —The She Matters Global Foundation, a new nonprofit focused on empow- ering and supporting women, officially launched Saturday with an event titled “She Matters – A Grand Tribute to Womanhood” at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove. The celebration brought together com- munity leaders, entrepreneurs, artists and supporters to recognize women’s achieve- ments and contributions across various fields. The organization was founded by Rajkumari Rathod, who said the founda- tion was created to ensure women receive recognition, support and opportunities to succeed. “This event was not just a celebration — it was the start of a vision that is very close to my heart,” Rathod said. “She Mat- ters was created to uplift women, cele- brate their achievements, support women entrepreneurs and build meaningful con- nections within our community.” The evening featured theWomen Excellence Awards honoring women mak- ing positive impacts in their communi- ties. Guests also enjoyed cultural dance performances, live music, a gala dinner, giveaways and a DJ celebration. According to organizers, the foundation aims to create platforms that empower women through recognition programs, networking opportunities, mentorship and community initiatives designed to promote leadership and growth. Attendees described the event as an evening of empowerment and unity that highlighted the strength, resilience and talents of women from diverse back- grounds. Rathod said the foundation plans to host future programs and initiatives that support women’s entrepreneurship, leadership development and community engagement. “This is just the beginning,” she said. “Together, we are building something meaningful — a space where women feel encouraged, respected and empowered.” Photos and videos from the launch event are expected to be shared in the coming days. About She Matters Global Foundation The She Matters Global Foundation is a nonprofit initiative dedicated to empow- ering women, celebrating their achieve- ments and supporting women entrepre- neurs. Through events, recognition programs and community initiatives, the foundation seeks to build a strong network of women leaders and inspire women to grow and make a difference. DESI TALK March 13, 2026 11 She Matters Global Foundation Launches With Tribute To Women In Downers Grove By Bhailal M. Patel Award recipients and organizers pose for a group photo during the “She Matters – A Grand Tribute to Womanhood” launch event hosted by the She Matters Global Foundation on March 7, 2026, at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, Illinois. The event celebrated women’s achievements and honored community leaders through the Women Excellence Awards while bringing together supporters, entrepreneurs and artists for an evening of recognition and empowerment. Members of the organizing team perform the traditional diya lighting ceremony during the launch of the “She Matters – A Grand Tribute to Womanhood” event hosted by the She Matters Global Foundation on March 7, 2026, at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove, Illinois. The ceremony marked the official opening of the celebration honoring women’s achievements and leadership within the community. ALL PHOTOS: ORGANIZERS