Look Who it Was Random video

Becoming US: Embracing Integration | Smita Garg | TEDxFargo

2,610 views · Published 26 November 2018 · 12:37 · Indexed 29 September 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2018 · Nonprofits & Activism

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In the context of a newcomer’s sense of belonging and a host community’s responsiveness, integration is better than assimilation. In this talk, Smita shares how integration can enhance and strengthen communities. Smita is a passionate community-builder.  Having lived in Italy, India, the USA, Zambia, Canada and China, she understands the value of creating connections, investing in relationships and engaging with diverse peoples.  This is reflected in her broad range of community involvements through organizing cross-cultural events, serving on non-profit boards, and volunteer activities. She is a recipient of the ATHENA Leadership Award®.
Smita holds an MBA in International Marketing from Temple University, Philadelphia.  Her diverse professional background ranges from being a ‘domestic engineer’, to working in the manufacturing sector, cooking classes, language service business, market research industry, immigrant serving agencies, and various aspects of the career services field at a direct service, project and policy level.  Prior to her current position at the NDSU Career Center, her primary accomplishment in public service was the development and implementation of an Immigration Action Plan for the City of Saskatoon, Canada. 
Multi-lingual, with an interest in culture, travel, and unity in diversity, she is a strong believer in the difference that one person can make.  She recently moved to Fargo with her husband Adi. Their three daughters, Aditi (Chris), Avni and Aneri who live in Canada are her inspiration. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

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