Anita from Indian Light Foundation

Anita was born in Suriname and has lived in the Netherlands since the early 1980s, and in Zaandam since that time. She is a mother of two daughters and enjoys dedicating herself to society. She has worked at the neighborhood team and has found her passion in volunteer work and socio-cultural initiatives.

In 2000, she founded the Indian Lights Foundation in memory of her father. The foundation is dedicated to women's empowerment, education for children and making Indian culture visible.

She wants to connect the community with traditional costumes and holidays such as Diwali, the festival of light, and Holi, the festival of color; but also show to the outside world Indian culture. In doing so, Anita wants to be a bridge builder between cultures.

"When you join forces, something really beautiful can be created - not just for yourself, but for everyone. That's what I want to bring to the Zaan region."

And that is exactly what she and her foundation will be doing at the Zaans Cultuurhuis. There will be cultural activities, such as the aforementioned Hindu festivals and the discovery and wearing of Indian costumes.

For her efforts in the social and cultural fields, Anita was appointed Member in the Order of Orange-Nassau earlier this year. She enjoys being recognized in this way for her efforts and she wants to continue her efforts to show the special connection between India, Suriname and the Netherlands.

[11-09-2025, 13:09:35] Marijn: Instagram: Anita was born in Suriname, has been in the Netherlands since the 1980s - and has been the driving force behind the Indian Lights Foundation for 25 years 🌸.

Passionate about women's empowerment, children's education and making Indian culture visible in the Zaan region, Anita brings people together. From the Hindu festivals Diwali and Holi to traditional costumes - everything is about connecting and sharing.

'When you join forces, something really beautiful can be created - not just for yourself, but for everyone.'