A community initiative focused on fostering intergenerational connections brought together students, parents, and professionals in Ridgewood, New York. The event, organized by The Apan Foundation in collaboration with the Ridgewood Nepalese Society and supported by the NYC Mayor’s Office Community Affairs Unit, was held at Simons Kitchen, a Nepali restaurant in the neighborhood.
The gathering aimed to facilitate discussions on generational differences, cultural identity, and community engagement. Attendees participated in conversations about strengthening family relationships and the role of social interaction in academic and personal development.
Amit Pratap Shah, Founder of The Apan Foundation and program lead, emphasized the event’s goal of addressing generational gaps within immigrant families. He highlighted the importance of both parents and children engaging in open discussions to foster mutual understanding and support.
“As immigrant families, we often focus on survival and success in a new country, but in the process, we sometimes overlook the emotional and generational gaps that grow between parents and children,” Shah remarked. “This event is a step toward closing those gaps, fostering understanding, and strengthening family and community bonds. Our goal is to create a space where students and parents feel heard, valued, and connected—where they can learn from one another and support each other’s growth.”
He emphasized that success is not only about academic achievement but also about social and emotional well-being, urging parents to engage in open conversations with their children and encouraging youth to actively participate in their community.
The event was moderated by Pragya Panthi, President of The Apan Foundation Student and Youth Welfare Committee. She led interactive activities and discussions focused on communication between generations, including the impact of technology on family relationships.
“Bridging generational gaps isn’t just about talking—it’s about listening, understanding, and respecting each other’s perspectives. Students, your parents have experienced hardships and sacrifices you may not fully understand, and parents, your children are navigating a world very different from the one you grew up in,” she stated. “By creating opportunities for open dialogue, we can strengthen relationships, foster empathy, and ensure that our community thrives together.”
She also facilitated a discussion on the impact of technology on family relationships, encouraging both parents and students to share their thoughts on how digital advancements have influenced their communication, relationships, and cultural engagement.
Guest speakers shared insights on various aspects of intergenerational engagement. Sookranie Dhanpat, South Asian Liaison for the NYC Mayor’s Office Community Affairs Unit, emphasized the value of self-awareness and cultural identity in bridging generational gaps.
“To connect with others, we must first understand ourselves. Our cultural background and experiences shape who we are, and embracing that identity allows us to appreciate differences and find common ground,” she shared. She encouraged parents and students to engage in meaningful conversations and actively participate in community events to foster stronger relationships.
Rajesh Bhatta, President of the Ridgewood Nepalese Society, highlighted the transformative power of social engagement and shared personal experiences about how his children’s involvement in the community positively influenced their confidence and academic performance.
“When young people engage with their community, they develop leadership skills, a sense of responsibility, and the confidence to advocate for themselves. This benefits not only the individual but also strengthens the entire community,” he said. He also spoke about the Ridgewood Nepalese Society’s Sunday classes, which have been instrumental in keeping Nepalese-American youth connected to their cultural roots.
Dr. Neeta Jain, Psychologist and Director of Universal Assessment and Consulting (DOE Certified Agency), provided insights into the importance of human connection in academic and social development.
“A child’s success is not just determined by grades—it’s about relationships, support systems, and emotional well-being. When children feel understood and valued by their families, they perform better in all aspects of life,” she emphasized. She encouraged parents to prioritize communication with their children and ensure that they feel safe sharing their experiences and challenges.
James Karmacharya, Undergraduate Student at Columbia University, offered a personal perspective on navigating generational differences, sharing his experiences as a Nepali-American student in a competitive academic environment.
“Maintaining strong ties with family while embracing new opportunities is a balancing act. Understanding and compromise from both generations are key to making this transition smoother,” he said. He urged young attendees to appreciate their heritage while finding ways to integrate their family values with their aspirations.
Shailesh Mishra, World Bank Scholar & Columbia University Student, discussed how cultural identity shapes perceptions of generational gaps and its role in shaping personal and academic success.
“Our cultural roots influence how we engage with others and navigate life. A strong foundation in our heritage gives us confidence and clarity in our goals,” he shared. He also spoke about the importance of social engagement and volunteerism in strengthening college applications and preparing for leadership roles.
Padma Linkha Magar, Founder & Principal of Saral Nepali Language & Cultural Center, emphasized the power of cultural education in helping children embrace their heritage.
“Language and culture are not just about history—they shape our identity and how we relate to others. When young people understand their heritage, they develop pride and confidence, which helps bridge generational gaps,” she said. She encouraged parents to introduce children to cultural traditions and involve them in community activities to strengthen their connection to their roots.
The event concluded with remarks from Pharshu Ram Panthi, Chairperson of The Apan Foundation, who noted the positive response from attendees and expressed a commitment to organizing similar initiatives in the future.
“This is just the beginning. We will continue to create opportunities for students and parents to come together, share experiences, and grow as a community. The Apan Foundation is committed to fostering dialogue, unity, and empowerment through programs like this,” Panthi stated.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
