South Asian Impact Foundation opens spring Desis Lead program

Deadline to submit applications for the 10 session Desis Lead Spring Intensive starting April 1 is March 14

By Arun Kumar

South Asian Impact Foundation has invited applications for a brand-new Spring Intensive Desis Lead program, where a smaller group of individuals can dive deeper into the Desi experience of running for office together.

“If you have ever considered running for office or are planning a race, this program will help you figure out exactly what you need to know to become a candidate,” the political advocacy organization stated in a media release.

READ: SAIFFF 2025 attracts top Bollywood, Hollywood and South Asian filmmakers (February 18th, 2025) 

The Desis Lead program offers a weekly session focusing on campaign trainings, community workshops, and access to South Asian elected officials from across the country who have been there before.

“Meet elected officials and build a network with fellow cohort members who can support you as you take the power to create change into your own hands by running for office,” the foundation exhorted

The 12-week (10 session) Desis Lead Spring Intensive will feature a cohort experience with weekly community-building sessions, workshops, trainings, group discussions, mentor meetings with South Asian elected officials, and virtual programs. Cohort members will meet Tuesday evenings once a week starting April 1 with the program scheduled to end on June 17.

The deadline to submit applications is Mar. 14 at bit.ly/desislead

In order to maintain a tight-knit cohort community, very limited spots are available. Those selected to join the Spring cohort will be notified by March 21, and the Spring cycle will begin on April 1, 2025.

Program Details:

– Duration: 12 weeks (10 sessions, 2 breaks)

– Dates: April 1, 2025 – June 17, 2025

– Sessions: Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30 PM ET via Zoom

Historically, South Asian Americans have been critically underrepresented in the halls of government at every level, from local to federal offices, the Impact foundation stated.

“In the past seven years since Impact’s founding in 2016, those numbers have skyrocketed thanks to incredible trailblazers who continue to make history across the country. Although representation has increased, we still have a ways to go to make sure our voices are heard.”

After the inaugural class of Desis Lead members in fall of 2023, the foundation has had three more successful cohorts that have led to a number of campaigns and newly elected officials across the country.