12/05/2024
On May 5th, the Indian American Political Action Committee hosted a Conversation over Coffee
from 3 to 4:30 PM at The Royal India Cuisine in Missouri City. The COC offered a chance for
citizens of Missouri City to understand its entrepreneurial opportunities. The panelists invited
were Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt and previous chairman of the Fort Bend Chamber of
Commerce, King Banerjee. Of the panelists invited, Mr. Banerjee attended. The Mayor could not
attend due to the weather and a faulty transformer. Dr. Rajasree Nambron and Dr. Purusottam
Sahoo co-chaired the event.
Dr Roopa Gir, current President of IAPAC shared a few words on Indian American Political
Action Committee (IAPAC) in Greater Houston, which was formed 25 years ago, educates about
India and Indian interests in a non-partisan manner. Representing 250,000+ Indian-origin
people, IAPAC’s board comprises Democrats, Republicans, and independents. IAPAC fosters
civic engagement through "conversations over coffee," discussing local issues, the judicial
system, and legislative impacts. Emphasizing voter participation, IAPAC recently hosted an
event introducing school board candidates.
King Banerjee shared his background as the owner of Big Frog custom T-shirts, a franchise in
Sugar Land. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and connection, which
inspired him to start his own business. He highlighted the value of personal interaction in a
technology-driven world. Mr. Banerjee discussed his involvement with the Chamber of
Commerce and the impact it had on his sense of belonging and hope within the community.
He also mentioned the leadership program at the Chamber, which offers a 10-month intensive
program to learn about the city, state, and federal government. Mr. Banerjee emphasized the
importance of diverse perspectives and conversations to foster understanding and connection
within the community. He shared his experience serving on the Chamber's board and highlighted
the focus on community initiatives and creating a sense of belonging for all members.
In terms of entrepreneurship, Mr. Banerjee emphasized the importance of finding opportunities
that align with personal values and filling gaps in the market.
Participants had the chance to interact with Mr. Banerjee and ask questions after the session.
With attendees sharing ideas over coffee cups kindly sponsored by The Royal India Cuisine, the
Conversation over Coffee ended on a positive note.
IAPAC (Indian American Political Action Committee) is a non-partisan organization dedicated
to increasing Indian-American voter participation and facilitating dialogue between the
community and elected officials. COC@IAPAC events play a crucial role in engaging the
community and motivating voter turnout. For more information about IAPAC and future events,
please visit [www.iapachouston.org]. Roopa Gir Rajasree Nambron sahoo
The only non-profit, non-partisan voice for Indian Americans in the Greater Houston area.
