By Praveen Chandhok
Fifteen years ago, a spark of an idea ignited a flame that still burns bright today. The recent 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the St Joseph’s Academy Alumni Association, followed by a heartwarming Gala Dinner reunion, marked a significant milestone: 15 years of connecting and celebrating Josephites worldwide.
It all began when a few visionary Josephites came together, driven by the shared dream of creating a platform that could serve as the voice of Josephites in India and across the globe. Dehradun, the heart and home of our alma mater, played a pivotal role in shaping this vision. Esteemed alumni such as Rajeev Nangia, Anurag Sangal and Jaideep Datta laid the foundation, ensuring the association was inclusive, with two Vice Presidents—one representing local members and the other representing those stationed elsewhere.
In 2010, the first committee was formed under the able leadership of Ajay Goyal, setting a high bar for those who followed. Over the years, stalwarts like Praveen Chandhok (who also served as Secretary), Randhir Arora, and Vikas Dewan took the helm, leaving behind legacies of dedication and progress. Today, under the dynamic leadership of Maj Gen Sanjay Sharma (Retd), the association is thriving, completing the first year of his tenure with renewed vigour and vision.
But this article isn’t just about the association’s journey or its countless achievements. It’s a reminder to all Josephites of the incredible opportunities this network provides. The SJA Alumni Association stands as a testament to the power of connection, bringing together Josephites from all walks of life—business magnates, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, bureaucrats, educationist, artists, writers, and innovators.
We live in an age of Infinite Possibilities, where the key to success lies in one word: Networking. Whether you’re searching for your next job, pitching a new business idea, or aiming for a well-deserved promotion, the strength of your network can often tip the scales. As celebrated author Robert Kiyosaki wisely noted, “The richest people in the world look for and build networks; everyone else looks for work.”
The essence of networking, however, lies not just in its reach but in its generosity. Renowned thinker Deepak Chopra beautifully puts it: “Giving connects two people, the giver and the receiver, and this connection gives birth to a new sense of belonging.” This spirit of giving—of connecting, uplifting, and inspiring—is at the core of the SJA Alumni Association.
Our Josephite family spans the globe, with many holding positions of influence. By becoming givers, we can harness this collective strength to uplift and empower our fraternity. From mentoring the next generation to fostering professional collaborations, Bonding Josephites Across the Globe is more than just a tagline—it’s a mission.
To every Josephite reading this, the association is your home, your network, and your strength. Together, we can achieve incredible things, leveraging our collective wisdom, experience, and influence to make a difference in our own lives and the lives of others.
Here’s to celebrating the past, embracing the present, and building a future filled with endless possibilities. Let’s continue bonding Josephites across the globe and carrying forward the legacy of St Joseph’s Academy with pride and purpose.
Here’s to the next 15 years of SJA Love!
(Praveen Chandhok is former President (2021-2023, 2015-2017), SJA Alumni Association, Dehradun)
