Seema Moondra

I immigrated to the United States in 1987 and have been involved with MMNA since her arrival. I credit MMNA for allowing me to connect with the Marwari community in New Jersey and beyond. Some of my closest friends, who are more like family now, are those I met at the first Diwali party in 1988. I have worked as a designer and construction manager building homes for individuals with developmental disabilities, and currently work as a Senior Project Manager for CBRE in commercial construction management.

I started the 4-H Indian Langoor Club for children in 1996 to teach children about the history and culture of India in the mainstream. The 4-H Indian Langoor Club Teen Chapter has conducted over 25 oral history interviews of Indian American seniors and business entrepreneurs. It has been instrumental in capturing the history of the community through their personal stories. I founded Enjoy Explore India in 2009 and presented over 400 cultural learning workshops in libraries, schools, and communities across New Jersey. My children Mohit and Avinash Moondra have participated in MMNA events since childhood and have actively participated in RAYS. My husband, Raj Moondra, is an IT Consultant and an enthusiastic supporter of our family's participation in community-building activities.

In a new country when everything is unknown, and no one knows you, the community you connect with becomes your anchor and gives you the sense of belonging. MMNA played a huge role in making me feel at home and connecting me with my roots. It has done the same for my children and continues to be that foundational anchor for many who immigrate to the USA.