The evening featured a deeply resonant panel discussion with acclaimed voices from India’s LGBTQ+ community—Faraz Arif Ansari (filmmaker), Patruni Chidananda Sastry (performance artist), and Rudrani Chhetri (actor, activist, and entrepreneur). Together, they explored the intersection of identity, professional spaces, and the need for authentic allyship. The event also saw a striking runway presentation by BOLD, India’s first transgender modelling agency, which challenged stereotypes and celebrated self-expression through fashion.
On the success of the event, Abeer Kapur, Founder & CEO, TIFN, said, “This event wasn’t just a celebration; it was a powerful reminder that inclusion requires intention. True equity begins when we create spaces where every identity is seen, heard, and empowered to thrive. I strongly believe that events like these start conversations and lay the foundation for a lasting change.”
Founded by 15-year-old Abeer, TIFN has been shaped by the mentorship of Aakash Chaudhry and Faisal Ahmed Patel and has quickly evolved into a credible movement advocating for measurable DEI action across industries.
Aakash Chaudhry, mentor and advisor to TIFN, said, “Inclusion and equity are essential for future-ready organisations, and TIFN is offering a clear, action-oriented framework to get there. I feel proud to see what Abeer has built with TIFN; it's truly extraordinary. It’s rare to see someone so young bring such clarity of purpose to an issue as complex as inclusion.”
“Abeer represents the kind of leadership we need: compassionate, courageous, and collaborative. TIFN is not just a project; it’s a powerful movement that unites people for a shared purpose. As someone who’s had the privilege of mentoring him, I’ve seen firsthand the clarity, empathy, and conviction he brings to this mission.” "Faisal Ahmed Patel, mentor and advisor to TIFN,"
Abeer, now 15, has emerged as one of India’s youngest inclusion advocates, creating a movement through TIFN that bridges communities and dismantles systemic exclusion. The event exemplified this ethos, with members from corporate India engaging in honest conversations with LGBTQ+ voices, breaking down stigma and beginning to rebuild policies around equity. Attendees also explored how the TIFN Equality and Inclusivity Charter can serve as a strategic framework for inclusive hiring and internal transformation.
“Inclusion isn’t about squeezing into someone else’s idea of belonging; it’s about reshaping the whole space so everyone feels at home. This event was a beautiful reminder that being seen is important, but true inclusion needs real, lasting change. TIFN is doing the deep, essential work of building systems rooted in care and acceptance — and I’m genuinely grateful to be a small part of that magic,” said Faraz Arif Ansari, filmmaker and LGBTQ+ advocate.
Further, Patruni Chidananda Sastry, Drag Artist, expressed, “I’m honored to have been part of an event like TIFN, where LGBTQ+ voices and corporate leaders come together with honest intent to drive change and truly understand the real meaning of inclusion.”
The event’s success lay in its ability to merge impact with inspiration. The fashion presentation by BOLD highlighted how the creative industries can challenge norms and celebrate individual identity. Attendees left with practical tools, from allyship frameworks and inclusive hiring ideas, to spark meaningful change in their organisations.
On this, Rudrani Chhetri, actor, model, and founder of BOLD, said, “This evening reminded me that inclusion should be looked at as a right and not a favour. Being able to share the stage with my peers and have our experiences heard and respected by leaders in the room was powerful. TIFN is setting a precedent for what future India can look like, one where identity is celebrated, not tolerated.”
As the evening concluded, the Trusted Inclusive Futures Network Foundation (TIFN) renewed its call to action to corporates, brands, and institutions across India to take concrete steps toward trans and LGBTQ+ inclusion. By signing the Equality and Inclusivity Charter, reviewing internal policies, and committing to measurable hiring and workplace goals, organisations can become active participants in building a more just and equitable society.
About TIFN
The Trusted Inclusive Futures Network Foundation (TIFN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering inclusive and equitable workplaces for all identities. Through strategic partnerships, advocacy, and capacity-building, TIFN empowers marginalized voices, supports systemic reform, and drives meaningful change across industries. Founded by Abeer Kapur, TIFN believes inclusion must be intentional, measurable, and embedded into the DNA of every organization.
