We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Menka Soni a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Menka, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

Overcoming Insecurities and Adversities Throughout her journey, Menka has had to deal with the insecurities of others, especially in the non-profit sector. People with hidden agendas often questioned the benefits for themselves, causing disruptions. Despite fabricated stories and misrepresentation of her character, Menka stayed focused on her mission. Her spiritual path and strong belief in her goals helped her navigate through these challenges. With a small but mighty team, she learned to sail through every storm, ultimately rising above the nuisances to achieve her charitable mission.

Menka, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Menka Soni: The SuperWonderWoman Embracing Risks, Failures, and Inspiring Communities

In a world where juggling multiple roles can be a challenge, there are exceptional individuals who rise above the rest, effortlessly donning various hats while making a significant impact in their communities. Menka Soni, a prominent community leader, has become synonymous with the term “SuperWonderWoman.” With responsibilities spanning City & County government, non-profit leadership, fashion, and an illustrious corporate career, Menka Soni has cemented herself as a force to be reckoned with. This article dives into the remarkable journey of Menka Soni, a true inspiration, a role model, and her unwavering commitment to making a difference and helping those who need it the most—all with her signature big smile.

A Beacon of Leadership

Menka Soni’s leadership acumen is truly awe-inspiring. As City of Redmond Arts Commissioner, Executive Board Member with One Redmond Foundation (Chamber of Commerce & Community Support), City of Renton Mayor-appointed Inclusion Task Force Member, City of Renton Lodging & Tourism Board Member, and South King County Advisory Board Member for homelessness & housing, she has tirelessly advocated for community needs, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for all. Her ability to navigate complex systems, engage stakeholders, and drive meaningful change has garnered respect and admiration from mayors, senators, and even the President. She has been awarded the Gold level President Volunteer Service award, Diversity & Inclusion Ambassador award, Most Admired Global Indian, World Peace Ambassador, and more. Recently she was awarded as TOP 20 Global Women of Excellence by United States Congress right at the White House. This is truly a matter of pride to be not only first one from washington state but also first Indian women to receive this award.

The Power of Philanthropy

Beyond her governmental involvement, Menka Soni has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to philanthropy. As the founder and president of AmPowering (www.ampowering.org), she has spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering underprivileged communities and transforming lives. Her tireless efforts in addressing social issues—feeding the needy, providing shelter to the homeless, mental health support, youth, community & senior engagement, promotion of arts & culture—have positively impacted countless lives. Her initiatives have been well recognized, earning her the title of Best Non-Profit several times. She was also awarded as COVID hero by Mayor of Redmond and Bellevue City Council as well as DE&I ambassador award by former Mayor of Renton.

Charity Projects under Her Leadership
FEED The NEED

Food donation to low-income communities
Cooked meals to the homeless (over 2,500 people fed weekly)
Maa Ki Rasoi (community kitchen in India)
Emergency Response
Mayka – Like my mother’s home program providing interim shelter and other resources

COVID-19 response
Financial assistance
StartUp Again: Helping survivors get back to work
Diversity Inclusion & Equity

Women EmPowerment: Help her earn with Dignity, Mayka: Interim Shelter, ReHire Now: Returnship program
Women Hygiene initiatives
DE&I Club
Promoting arts & culture
Supporting disadvantaged communities
Hope Foundation in India

Deh’aat: Primary Education
Maa Ki Rasoi (community kitchen)
Women Hygiene initiatives
Engaging Communities

AmPowering Youth Council
AmPowering Seniors
AmPowering Families
AmPowering Neighborhoods
Overall, 500,000 people have benefitted through these programs.

Fashioning a Brighter Future

Menka Soni’s passion for the fashion industry is evident in her role as CEO of North America Fashion Week (NAFW). Through this platform, she has nurtured emerging talent, promoted cultural diversity, and propelled the industry forward. NAFW has become a prominent showcase of creativity, innovation, and inclusivity, featuring renowned designers like Neeta Lulla,Papa Don’t Preach, Vikram Phadnis, Nikhil Thampi, Rohit Verma and many more renowned designers.

NAFW is a unique melting point for premium fashion labels from across the world to come together and explore an extremely high potential, yet largely under explored market in the US.

Seattle is the epi-center of technology in the US and is home to many IT and Technology giants. The market is ripe with anticipation and excitement and the event has been planned just ahead of the festive season to leverage sales and maximize business generation.

NAFW is an extravagant, carefully curated, collaborative platform for designers and models, HMUA, photographers , defying all cultural and geographical barriers.

During the 4 days of the power packed event – labels gets several opportunities for long term associations and serious networking, apart from instant sales.

Seattle has the fourth largest fashion design economy, fourth largest fashion employment, and seventh largest apparel-manufacturing centers in the country according to a study conducted by Community Attributes International. These statistics made the Pacific Northwest a prime location for this event. Fashion is so much more than clothing; it is art. Seattle is known for its art however, it has yet to be fully recognized for the fashion hub it is.
This event will bring attention to its long overdue blossoming industry. Although New York and Paris are known for their fashion design the world has so much to offer outside of these cities. There is a need for showcasing the rich culture the United and bring a sense of community and togetherness.
NAFW will benefit the non-profit AmPowering, to help build mobile shelter home for homeless neighbors in Seattle The award-winning AmPowering already has a reputation for transforming so many lives both here in the United States as well as India. With a focus on inner beauty, bringing attention to outer beauty through fashion is the obvious next steps

Menka also directs international pageants, including Mrs. Universe America, Miss Teen/Mrs./Miss India Canada, Mr./Ms. Global Asia, and more. Her commitment to inclusivity and talent promotion has earned her numerous awards, including Best Production, Best Entrepreneur, and Best Non-Profit.

Balancing Corporate Excellence
While wearing many hats, Menka Soni has not forgotten her roots in the corporate world. With a successful career in IT, she has broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings. Her expertise and strategic mindset have left an indelible mark on the industry. Her ability to balance corporate responsibilities with her numerous other endeavors is a testament to her exceptional organizational skills and drive for success. She was also awarded DE&I Champion award by former President of T-Mobile across 40 countries.

Real Estate Expertise and Consultation
In addition to her community leadership roles, Menka Soni is an accomplished real estate broker and consultant. With extensive knowledge and experience, she assists clients in making informed decisions and navigating the complexities of the real estate market, positively impacting lives through one of the most significant aspects of people’s journeys—their homes and investments.

Inspiring Transformation Through Motivational Speaking and Coaching
Menka Soni’s transformational impact extends beyond community involvement and real estate endeavors. As a motivational speaker and coach, she ignites inspiration in individuals, helping them unlock their true potential. Her powerful words and compassionate guidance empower others to overcome challenges, embrace personal growth, and achieve success in all areas of life.

Setting World Records
Menka Soni’s indomitable spirit has led her to set world records, further solidifying her status as a SuperWonderWoman. Her extraordinary achievements and determination push the boundaries of what is possible, inspiring others to embrace their potential and strive for greatness.

Accolades and Recognition
Menka Soni’s exceptional work and remarkable achievements have earned her numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her reputation as a respected and influential figure. From industry-specific recognitions to commendations from high-ranking officials, her accolades reflect the immense impact she has made in various spheres of influence.

Conclusion
Menka Soni is undoubtedly a SuperWonderWoman in every sense of the word. Her remarkable ability to excel across diverse sectors, coupled with her unwavering commitment to community empowerment, has left an indelible impact on the lives she touches. Whether as a community leader, non-profit founder, fashion industry influencer, or corporate executive, Menka Soni serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating the power of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Her legacy will continue to shape and uplift communities for generations to come.

Websites
www.northamericafashionweek.com
www.ampowering.org
www.northamericafashionweek.com
www.mrsindiacanada.com
www.nwindiausapageant.com
www.frenchcreekmanor.com
Education
Certified Investment Banking
MBA in Finance & Marketing
Bachelor’s in Science
PMP Certified
Six Sigma Green Belt
Diversity Inclusion & Equity Champion
Challenges Overcome

Menka Soni is a self-made woman who has faced setbacks and failures but never gave up. Born as the fifth daughter in a middle-class family where career-oriented education was uncommon, she fought against old beliefs to pursue her goals. Despite financial hardships and business challenges, she maintained a positive attitude and strong determination. Her journey from ground zero to founding North America Fashion Week is a testament to her resilience and hope.

How Her Non-Profit Was Born
Menka’s desire to work for a charitable cause was evident since childhood. During a visa issue in 2009, she realized the potential of talented women around her and founded her non-profit for women’s empowerment. Today, her non-profit organization feeds 2,500 homeless people weekly in India and the USA and provides various forms of support to those in need.

Family Support
Menka’s husband, Ashish Soni, has been a supportive partner in all her endeavors. Together, they have faced challenges and celebrated successes. They have two loving daughters and a fluffy dog. Her daughter launched the AmPowering Youth Board, empowering the youth today.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Coming from conservative family and as a girl child, sometimes progress is limited by old school beliefs and thoughts of others. Menka had to fight with these believes and make way not for herself, but pave path for others as well.

Menka Soni embraced all risks and failures to become a renowned name today that is inspiring many others to come forward and transform their dreams to reality. She has inspired many more women and helped paved the path that many are following today and growing. It’s always the first one that has to take the leap of faith.

My biggest goal is to move everyone from ME to WE together and support each other. I always had goal of growing together. However, many times people come forward and ask me to grow them only and often complain or blame if they are not able to succeed.

For 360 degree success it is important to give back and empower others as well. Once they move from being self centered and caring just for them, if they move together they can lift many clouds and empower many.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I am a designer myself and had her own boutique.

In 2011, Menka gave wings to her enterprising venture by launching her first designer apparel brand – Ravishing Inc., an initiative to aid Luckhnowi hand-embroidered Chikan women artisans and talent rural embroiders and women business owners. From her first brick & mortar store in Redmond , Downtown, Seattle, to launching -Ravishing Women’s 2013- a nonprofit with mission to Encourage, Inspire, Appreciate & Empower Women, to felicitate several women entrepreneurs, she had done it all. They She hosted Ravishing Women’s first pageant of Ms. India WA, to inspire and motivate women to showcase their talent. Menka became a mentor and coach for several women and advocate to stop violence against women including domestic vioelence. .

As promoter of arts & culture, vVery soon she gave wings to another dream of bringing recognition for Indian culture and arts, launched Indian Cultural Center – ‘PRANAAM INDIA’. They She became cultural ambassadors in the U.S.A. and launched a new concept of ‘RESOCLANT’ a unique combination of Resort, Restaurant and Club. Rendering importance to Indian culture, all forms of music and art classes were offered at this cultural center along with celebrating all festivals to bring mini India in USA. Undoubtedly ,it got noticed for its unique offerings and became the talk-of-the-town. However, a few challenges are inevitable in the life of an entrepreneur,with huge disappointment the city had conveyed the complex to be converted into apartments and within a few months, Menka lost both leased space and her conceptual cultural center and her Ravishing Marketplace.

With her never giving up attitude, iInspite of the above hardships, Menka continued to make path for other women to follow and was awarded as ‘The Best Nonprofit & Pageant Director’ by along with the President of Miss Universe, Ms. Paula Shugart, at one of the biggest awards from global pageant and beauty industry. She was awarded several times for her designs, featured in Seattle Fashion Week and nominated several times as best designer. This catapulted her into an entrepreneur, as she launched –‘The North America Fashion Week’. At present, NAFW is the biggest fashion week in the North West area of the U.S.A, where reputed designers like Neeta Lulla, Prashant Verma, Rohit Verma walk the ramp. NAFW is supported and proclaimed as the most diverse and inclusive event by the City of Redmond Mayor; Recognized & appreciated by the Consul General of India for promoting fashion, textiles and cultural heritage of India in the USA. While, on the other hand ‘Ravishing Women Festival’ is coming to be now City of Renton Mayor’s event; supported by Senators, Council members, Governor, Chief Police and big Bollywood celebrities. Menka’s events are popular to be well organized, and attract diverse designers, artists, fashion houses, and celebrities all across the USA, Canada, India, Africa, Korea, China, Cambodia and all other Asian countries. She is also a well-known name for big media productions in Seattle and Portland and has worked with various big Bollywood celebrities and Indian movie & TV artists.

Contact Info:

• Website: www,northamericafashionweek.com
• Instagram: menka soni
• Facebook: menka soni
• Linkedin: menka soni

Image Credits
98052 Photography Ashish Keshwani Photography Adiish Photography Kiran Photography