We had the good fortune of connecting with Namitha Namitha and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Namitha, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
I founded People’s Impact Network (PIN) with a vision to create a ripple effect of positive change in our communities. The inspiration comes from witnessing the immense potential of collective action to transform lives. At the very heart of PIN is my belief that people are inherently good and given the right circumstances will always make the choice to lean into altruism. Indian ethnic clothing is a tangible piece of our heritage. While most people are raised with the belief that wearing preloved clothing is only for those less fortunate, I am focused on tapping into the value of sustainability and normalizing ethnic fashion here in the United States as everyday clothing and not costumes intended for special occasions.
Our initiatives of thrifting of gently used sarees and other ethnic clothing, provide affordable options for families while preserving cultural heritage. Moreover, PIN is committed to empowering other non-profits through micro grants and women and differently-abled individuals through employment.

This triple WIN concept – where individuals, communities and the environment all benefit – ensures that our efforts are both inclusive and impactful!

PIN is the first such organization in the United States and leads the charge in encouraging reuse, reducing waste and creating positive change by giving back to the communities where we live!

What should our readers know about your business?
I established PIN to promote sustainable ethnic fashion and reinforce the need for everyone to engage in community service. My vision has driven the organization to create impactful programs and initiatives. I champion the cause of sustainable fashion, encouraging the reuse of ethnic clothing and supporting eco-friendly practices. As a mother of three and a working professional, managing my time and responsibilities has been a significant area of focus. Balancing my personal and professional life while leading a non-profit requires immense dedication and time management. Securing funding and resources for the organization’s initiatives is always a challenge for non-profits. I focus on mobilizing volunteers who are the lifesource of the organization. Encouraging the south asian community to adopt sustainable fashion practices and the reuse of ethnic clothing involves changing long-standing habits and perceptions. This requires continuous education and advocacy. Walking the walk while talking the talk!

To overcome these challenges, I have developed strong time management skills to juggle my responsibilities as a mother and a leader. constantly prioritize tasks and delegate within my team to ensure both my personal and professional duties are met. By maintaining open communication and fostering a sense of community, I have built a committed base of volunteers and supporters. I regularly update stakeholders on the organization’s progress and involves them in decision-making processes. I believe that my ability to adapt and my unwavering commitment to my vision has been key to overcoming these challenges and driving the success of People’s Impact Network.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In the last several years of living in DFW I have been overwhelmed positively by the array of choices available to locals and visitors alike. Since my story is that of cultural heritage, let me share a piece of that with all of you. Did you know that there are 17 prominent Hindu temples in the DFW area? This is not accounting for the many other smaller local ones. The one that I like to visit frequently is Radha Krishna Temple at Allen. Not only does it have beautiful architecture, but it is also one of the most welcoming temples for people from all walks of life. You can check out the various cultural programs, partake in some Prasad (this is yummy food that is blessed) or perhaps even run into the Guru who has written some amazing self-help books. Other notable temples are Hanuman Temple where it is believed that a devotee can overcome many of life’s challenges by tying a thread of commitment and following through with devotion. I can attest that while I was a skeptic in the beginning, it did come true. Power of devotion or manifestation, I do not know.

Moving on to another hidden gem. Right across from the Klyde Warren Park in Downtown Dallas, which in itself is a definite “do not miss” location, you can walk on over to the Money Museum at Federal Reserve Bank. Learn about the economy in fun and simple ways and grab a bag of shredded money on the way out as your souvenir!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
All the Board members past and present of People’s Impact Network, the volunteers and champions of the mission are all instrumental in making this happen and keeping it alive! A special dedication to Gayatri Kamath in Chicago who is aptly called the mother of Saree Strong, the primary program delivered by PIN. Her initial donations fueled the organization and her continued support nurtures its growth.

Website: Https://peoplesimpact.org

Instagram: @namithanayak

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitha-raj-nayak/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/namitha.pai.nayak

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.