Pakiv Yagjah
CONNECT . COMMUNICATE . COLLABORATE
Service & Volunteerism
Broader Community Outreach
Foundation Communities in Austin
In Austin, I spearheaded an initiative at Foundation Communities in Austin, where I led a team in preparing and serving meals to single adult residents that lived alone with no care. This initiative was designed to provide nutritious food, and a warm, welcoming environment where residents, who often live in isolation, could feel seen, valued, and part of a community. This deeply rewarding experience in fostering connection, camaraderie, and support, allowed me to combine service, leadership, and compassion to make a tangible difference in the lives of otherwise marginalized people.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
In Toronto, I raised funds for the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for four years in a row, climbing 144 floors on the CN Tower each year, an experience that was both physically challenging and deeply meaningful. Each step not only symbolized my commitment to environmental conservation and the urgent need to protect our planet’s wildlife and natural habitats (something we remember from growing up in Maej Kasheer), but was a strong reminder of how collective effort and determination can make a real impact on causes that matter.
Black Lives Matter
I participated in a Black Lives Matter march in Austin to show solidarity and support for racial justice. It was a powerful experience to stand alongside people from diverse backgrounds, united for equality and systemic change. Being part of the march reinforced my commitment to speaking up against injustice and promoting inclusivity in all areas of life.
Educational and Community Leadership
I have served as a PTA Board member in my children’s schools, to help guide activities that helped the students build character and purpose as they go through their school year, as well as to support the parent body.
I currently serve as a board member of the homeowner’s association for our community, to make sure safety measures, resident issues are taken care of, building alterations are approved and community events are organized regularly.
I have volunteered for Sparkle & Rise, raising funds for this global organization to support underprivileged children across multiple countries.
I was involved with fundraising for Austin Speech labs, an organization that supports stroke survivors and their loved ones in rebuilding their lives by providing affordable yet innovative therapy options.
I helped the team at Pratham with fundraising efforts, an organization dedicated to providing education to underprivileged children in India.
Broader community-facing initiatives
South Asian Moms Diwali Event
Organized a Kashmir booth display to showcase our culture and heritage.
India Independence Day
Organized and displayed a Kashmir booth at Jai Ho event for multiple years.
Independence Day parade
Participated in the parade at the Texas State Capitol for multiple years, prior to 2024 and during the last two years.
Within our local KP community:
While all of the above evidences the breadth of my volunteer experience, my koshur community and family is what is closest to my heart. My engagement and volunteerism here is something I don’t consider negotiable.
Exodus Day Commemoration. Fundraising to provide food for our local homeless shelters—a way to honor our own displacement by helping others in need
Founding Team member for annual Hawan in Austin. It started seven years ago. I've cooked food for 250 people along with my husband Sharad, Reeta & Ramesh Kaul, and Pammy & Sanjay Razdan.
Tulmul (Kheer Bhawani Temple) in Kashmir (2023)
I was at Tulmul on Zeath Aatham day in 2023. Our original goal was to distribute drinking water bottles to the devotees. However, during our visit to the temple, I was surprised by the amount of litter in this sacred place. Even the naag near the main deity was filled with Amul milk tetra packs.
I decided to take matters into my own hands. Along with two family members, I began cleaning up the area. To our surprise, within minutes, more people joined us, inspired to help.
In just a couple of hours, the entire temple grounds were spotless. The impact of this effort was profound — not only was the space clean, but it also sparked a sense of community responsibility and awareness. People who joined us left with a renewed appreciation for keeping sacred and public spaces clean, demonstrating how small actions can create a ripple effect of positive change.
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