New York City Students and Parents Unite to Bridge Generational Gaps at Landmark Community Event
Ridgewood, NY – In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at strengthening intergenerational connections, The Apan Foundation, in collaboration with the Ridgewood Nepalese Society and with support from the NYC Mayor’s Office Community Affairs Unit, successfully hosted the New York City Students and Parents Breaking Bread & Building Bonds event at Simons Kitchen, a renowned Nepalese restaurant in Ridgewood, New York.
This historic gathering brought together hundreds of students, parents, and professionals from diverse backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue, cultural appreciation, and community-building. The event sought to bridge generational gaps while highlighting the role of social engagement in academic and personal growth.
In his welcome remarks, Program Lead Amit Pratap Shah, Founder of the Apan Foundation, underscored the historic significance of this initiative, noting that it was the first program of its kind within the community.
“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 program was skillfully moderated by Pragya Panthi, President of the Apan Foundation Student and Youth Welfare Committee, who played a pivotal role in setting an engaging, welcoming, and inclusive tone for the evening.
Panthi led an interactive icebreaker, encouraging participants to introduce themselves by sharing their name, profession or grade (for students), and a fun fact. This simple yet effective activity helped create a friendly and open atmosphere, breaking down barriers and encouraging dialogue.
In her remarks, Panthi emphasized the importance of mutual understanding between generations and how cultural and generational differences can sometimes create unspoken tensions within families.
“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 thought-provoking 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.
The event featured insightful discussions from esteemed speakers, each offering valuable perspectives on strengthening family bonds, cultural identity, and personal growth.
Sookranie Dhanpat, South Asian Liaison for the NYC Mayor’s Office Community Affairs Unit:
Dhanpat 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:
Bhatta 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):
Dr. Jain 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, Columbia University:
Karmacharya offered a personal perspective on navigating generational differences, sharing his experiences as a Nepalese-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:
Mishra 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:
Magar 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 Mr. Pharshu Ram Panthi, the newly nominated Chairperson of the Apan Foundation. He acknowledged the overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees and emphasized the importance of continuing such initiatives.
“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.
With its resounding success, the New York City Students and Parents Breaking Bread & Building Bonds event was more than just a gathering—it was a milestone in fostering unity, cultural pride, and the power of meaningful dialogue. The Apan Foundation has pledged to continue organizing impactful, community-centered initiatives, ensuring that students and parents remain engaged, empowered, and connected for generations to come.