Discussion about entry: SAPNA Media LLC \\ What if the "in crowd" was enlightened?
This is discussion about SAPNA Media LLC \\ What if the "in crowd" was enlightened?.
This is discussion about SAPNA Media LLC \\ What if the "in crowd" was enlightened?.
Comments
Rather novel approach to empowering the South Asian women demographic - often overlooked and underrepresented even in their home states. By building on an already successful business model - the magazine itself - the proper framework is set.
A really great idea overall.
I think Sapna is one of the most focused and impressive media organizations I have ever come across. The founders have a true vision and every South Asian woman that I meet has heard of Sapna or follows the magazine. For this reason, I offer strong support for the magazine and its team and believe that any direction this group takes will surely lead to success and positively impact stakeholders and the general public.
As the founder of a fundraising organization in Chicago, Nights for Charity ("NFC"), I was extremely pleased when Sapna offered to help in the marketing efforts for one of our events. Sapna not only distributed marketing materials, they reached out to may young professionals to help raise funds for NFC. We had a goal to purchase physical education equipment for a small charter school that did not have adequate funding and Sapna helped NFC reach its marketing and financial goals. I was very impressed with Sapna's generosity, creativity and passion.
Sapna has helped me, writers, models, and other changemakers reach their dreams and I believe this is only the tip of the iceberg. I hope the team at Sapna is able to achieve their own dream by continuing to expand and challenge the status quo.
It is with great gratitude and respect that I reccommend Sapna Media LLC to Changemakers.net. Sapna deserves to ahcieve its dreams.
Thanks so much for the positive feedback! I would love to hear thoughts on our new business model and also how we could possibly fine tune it for success.
I would like to recommend Sapna Media LLC to Changemakers.net. It serves as an outlet for many south asians and young people across the country and abroad to connect to their own culture in a blend of American and South Asian Tradition. The wide array of articles have been an inspiration to myself and many others, and helps strengthen our communities, and I hope to see this already successful business model move forward.
I remember being in high school in the 90's, begging my parents to let me get blonde highlights so I could look more like the pretty girls in my class and like the women on Television or in Magazines. Beauty had a clear definition back then, blonde hair and blue eyes. In college, the definition was broadened a bit, but the general confines remained. There was no outlet for an intelligent Indian girl to truly understand the depth of her beauty.
I came across Sapna Magazine in 2004, and was inspired by the women featured in the magazine. South Asian Women were revered for their budding careers, unique artistic talents, and unparalleled beauty. Further, I learned a host of information about eastern philosophy, traditions, and culture, beyond what my mother would teach me. It helped to unite me to a community of women, who were a culmination of American and South Asian culture, just like me. From make-up to motherhood, Sapna Magazine is the one outlet where South Asian American women can turn, and find a land of their peers.
It is a shame that such a brilliant magazine concept has not had proper funding to allow it to grow. I think that the modest funding request in this business plan will provide Sapna Magazine with the tools needed to upgrade the website, and properly market the magazine to South Asians all over the United States.
I was introduced to SAPNA magazine when I was still in high school, and it has actually helped me in more ways than I thought. As a young South Asian woman, there were many concepts that were (and still are) taboo and it was not easy discussing certain things with my parents; so for me SAPNA was the "parent" that I could go to get a "South Asian perspective" on such things that I could not otherwise had an insight into. Simply said, there was a broad array of topics covered in SAPNA that did not limit a South Asian girl, but instead broadened the possibilities that preserved aspects of tradition, and at the same time pushed the boundaries. Not only is it something that caters to the needs of women, but also to the empowerment of South Asians as a whole, by assuring that it is okay to go after one's dreams no matter how challenging it may be. Thus, I believe that Sapna really pushes to challenge the South Asian community into trying new things by being up-to-date, providing articles ranging from tear-jerking to laughing-to-tears, and providing all this with a group of dedicated volunteers and people who want to make our dreams a reality.
If SAPNA has come this far without much financial assistance, with all the support and contributions of it's readers and founders, imagine what it can be with $25,000 and how many more young adults' lives it can change.
I sincerely thank SAPNA for being a guidance throughout the years and want to continue seeing it for many more years to come.
Because of the changing and diverse social climate of the south asian culture - this is the ideal time to have a platform for south asian women to share ideas, to build on self-esteem, to be provided a network of connections, and most importantly to be motivated and encouraged. SAPNA magazine has already developed a solid framework as an online magazine, and through Changemakers, SAPNA will be provided the opportunity to expand and reach its full potential. If SAPNA gets this opportunity, I am sure it will positively impact the south asian community and more.
This is an excellent approach to empowering the South Asian women outside of Asia. Sapna magazine proposes to reach this market by uniquely relating to issues pertaining to this demographic. In the past few years Sapna magazine has been able to reach this demographic effectively without any outside funding, which demonstrates the following:
- contagiousness of its idea
- the effectiveness of its execution and marketing
- vision of its leadership
In my opinion Sapna not only offers huge potential for return on investment but also is a media brand in the making. The brand can be extended to other avenues as mentioned in the proposal. Also the brand has the potential of morphing into catering to other demographics. Overall, this is a great business plan and with funding could be propelled into a media giant.
I am a 24 year old, Pakistani girl living in Chicago. I was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago and have been incredibly blessed with the opportunities I've had. I took the opportunities that I saw and worked hard to make a difference in my community and surroundings. SAPNA has that opportunity today. SAPNA has the opportunity to continue to motivate, unite, entertain, and guide young women like myself. Given additional funding, I am positive that SAPNA will continue to make a difference in the lives of women and I am positive that they will do it with grace, poise and intellect.
I am a current supporter of what SAPNA has done as well as support what they aim to do not only in the future, but FOR the future. I hope others realize how important a magazine like SAPNA is for young women like myself in this changing world.
I've had the privilege of seeing SAPNA grow from a budding idea in a close friend's head to the amazing organization of inspiring women that it has become today. It has been a difficult journey for them thus far, but these truly dedicated ladies have overcome many obstacles to disseminate their message and share their dream. Working to bring a disjoint community together and empowering people to realize their worth both are very difficult and imeasurably rewarding tasks, and I cannot wait to see what the SAPNA crew will accomplish just in working towards those goals. GOOD LUCK, and keep up the amazing work!
I think that SAPANA is the best media organization to give the real impression of the South Asian woman culture, style and fashion. The founders have their strong foresight of bridging the South Asian Culture with the Western Culture. It has always supported create a taste of fashion about South Asian Women Culture in the western world.
Since this is a "time to change".....I support Sapana by saying "Yes you can" and its founders and management for their dreams.
Sapna Media is an innovative company that brings together brilliant women. Sapna is not only a way for women to connect and learn, but it is also a way to initiate and inspire change by creating a community of informed readers.
I have seen Sapna Magazine feature many thought-provoking and important issues, such as AIDS in India, the tragedy of acid throwing, domestic abuse and sexual assault in the South Asian American community... These issues are not often talked about, but Sapna has brought them into the light to be discussed -- the first step to being addressed.
Sapna is in the perfect place to initiate change. It is with great hope that I support Sapna Media, LLC in this competition and in all of its endeavors.
Let's face it, a South Asian girl living in the US is not an easy thing to do. There is always a jekyll and hyde conflict with our girls that truly holds them down and keeps them quiet. They are culturally preferred to stay at home, be the perfect mom, the perfect wife, and the perfect daughter-in-law; and in turn they are asked to sacrifice their dreams. A few girls decided that they had had enough and wanted to be heard. They wanted to showcase South Asian women who were trend-setters, political activists, designers, models,etc.; so that they can look at real life examples of their own who go after their dreams.
Sapna gives these dreamers their voice; it connects girls from all over the world so they can share their experiences, their ideas, and their passions. I have always and will continue to support Sapna.
I, personally, have been a big fan of Sapna for years. I'm a large, white, male but I can still appreciate what Sapna stands for and know the creator personally. I'm living proof that Sapna is bigger than just a magazine and is instead is something that can bridge the cultural gap between South Asian women and the rest of America. I can think of no other organization that deserves this chance more than Sapna, so I strongly urge you to consider them!
SAPNA FOR LIFE!!!
Growing up south Asian in a predominantly Caucasian community, it was difficult to identify with the culture my parents were forcing down my throat. They always spoke with much regret that I could not identify with my own culture. In retrospect, I can attribute part of my alienation to the lack of representation in the mainstream media. I did not want to be different. I wanted to be like everyone else. As our culture in the US changes and the media begins to represent and embrace more of the minorities in this country, I think it is imperative that companies like this emerge. Their success will heavy impact young teens in search of an identity that synthesizes their desire to assimilate while maintaining their own heritage.
The US is often lauded for being a melting pot of various cultures. In hopes of maintaining such a status, it is our duty as a community to encourage individuality and promote everyone's cultural heritage.
I commend SAPNA for its business plan and I wish it the best of luck. We, as a country, can use more women, more citizens, and more changers just like SAPNA.
I think Sapna's a great media source. The articles are definately ones I can relate to being South Asian. Furthermore, they help not only educate South Asians like myself, but create awareness of our culture to people all around us.
At first glance, Sapna Magazine may seem like a magazine that's only geared for a South Asian American audience, however many of the articles I personally have been able to pass along to my friends who aren't South Asian and have helped them to a better understanding of the culture. Supporting Sapna wouldn't just mean giving a platform for South Asian Americans but also help further bridge the different cultures of America through understanding and awareness.
Thank you for all who are commenting! (and for those who have tried, but haven't been able to for site issues)...
Each time I see SAPNA's supporters' words, I begin to re-fall in love with the idea of SAPNA. Each time I have renewed hope about it's ability to bring together a community who needs a platform. Each time I see so much potential in an underserved population. Potential to shape our world, influence our social values and change the lives of others. I've never been prouder to be a part of SAPNA, but I know we have a long road ahead! Keep supporting...because that's how we will get heard. Tell us more! We love your input and suggestions.
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Vaishali Rao
I want to thank Sapna for their constant effort to reach out and bring a community together through their wonderful work. The idea was brilliant, and I am so pleased that they continue to evolve and bring such a quality product to the South Asian community. The style and sophistication in which they do their job really allows them to create a classy product and allow them to connect on a common level with many South Asian women.
I like the idea and I think that the folks behind this project know what they're talking about. They definately know their audience and have a good idea of where they want to go with em. Great effort! Great product!
keep up the good work.
Johann
I love SAPNA magazine!! I enjoy the thoughtful writers and the interesting topics they cover. They write about topics few magazines dare to address. Keep sticking it to the man!
we had a word limit, but we are very excited by the diversity of our platform
** community
* Giving a platform to South Asian writers to address issues unique to the South Asian diaspora that mainstream publications will not cover. Examples include, the implications of the recent Mumbai attacks on Diaspora members or how the pervasive culture of skin bleaching continues in the South Asian Diaspora.
* Enabling users to create their own profiles, maintain their own blog, and also have specialized portals for their city/region.
* Organizing "offline events" where online members can gather for networking and relationship building.
** confidence
* Connecting South Asian women, disconnected from their roots, to their culture in order to help them explore and prepare to effectively utilize their unique cultural duality.
* Tailoring content to women's self interest to better themselves in the areas of health, beauty, fashion, career, relationships, and lifestyle
* Introducing positive role models among emerging celebrities with the South Asian Diaspora, including writers, politicians and social entrepreneurs, among others.
** self actualization
* Creating a culture of social change in all aspects of the magazine: Products, advertisers, models, celebrities and designers appreciate SAPNA's commitment to social conscienceness and are like minded in our mission. (For example, a tomato at Whole Foods and Walmart are similar, but there is a different level of integrity in the products.
* Providing a steady stream of content (via articles, webcasts, webinars, etc) that focus on fulfillment and achieving personal dreams
* Captivating story telling of world issues, including direct action steps for readers
This magazine has done what was needed for generations. It has empowered women of all ages and ethnicities to be proud of themselves and who they are, even if that is not what is glorified in popular media. Instead of merely highlighting superficial elements, Sapna, educates on all fronts including school, work place, ethics, and culture. This magazine deserves this award!
Growing up I had always wished there was a magazine like Sapna out there. Now that there is, Im glad it provides the inspiration and guidance that young and current South Asian women need. Sapna is courageous to tackle topics that are much needed to talk about, which are usually refrained in society. I wish for the Sapna team to continue bringing their great articles and advice!
I would like to recommend SAPNA Magazine. One of the first of its kind, SAPNA addresses several pertinent issues for young South Asian women today, and encourages them to follow their "sapna" by providing key, relevant articles, advice, etc. The SAPNA executive board also continues to enhance its features and cater to their audience by redesigning its format and putting influential South Asian women on its cover...it is the best of its kind and truly deserves ChangeMaker's recognition.
ChangeMakers is dedicated to highlighting organizations that ensure that their target demographic changes for the better. SAPNA has received several accolades from readers, calling their articles inspiring and right on. Many readers have been motivated to make changes within their own lives after reading articles in this magazine. Thus, SAPNA's accomplishments reflect ChangeMakers' vision.
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