An inspiring evening of advocacy, art, and action to uplift women and girls around the world
Houston, TX — On Saturday, June 28, 2025, the Blume Foundation held its highly anticipated
first annual gala, Petals of Hope: Voices of Change, at The Westin Oaks Houston at the
Galleria. The evening brought together a dynamic community of changemakers, philanthropists,
artists, and advocates dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of women and girls
globally.
The event was emceed by Rosie Nguyen, Director of Communications and Projects in Free
Expression at Rice University and one of Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women of 2024. Nguyen
opened with a stirring call to action, urging guests to stand in solidarity with Blume’s mission to
confront the systemic devaluation of women and girls through education, advocacy, and
empowerment.
Founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist Vaishali Dev, the Blume Foundation is a
pioneering force addressing some of the most urgent global issues—gendercide, reproductive
justice, leadership equity, mental health, and economic opportunity for women. Through
innovative programming, global partnerships, scholarships, and tailored support systems, the
foundation is reshaping futures one life at a time.
The evening began with a moving invocation song by Gwendolyn Price Harris, followed by
heartfelt remarks from founder Vaishali Dev, who shared her personal story and the vision
behind Blume. The Blume Foundation was honored with a Certificate of Special Congressional
Recognition from Congressman Al Green; a Certificate of Recognition from Texas Senator
Molly Cook, District 15; a Proclamation from Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones;
and a Proclamation from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, delivered by Alice
Lee—recognizing the Blume Foundation’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that women
have access to the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive at every stage of life.
These honors also acknowledged the Blume Foundation’s efforts to break down barriers and
build a future where girls are valued, empowered, and free from violence and discrimination.
A poignant segment on gendercide awareness was led by Beverley Hill, founder of the
Gendercide Awareness Project (GENDAP), featuring powerful testimony from survivor Niriah
Williams. The segment shed light on the harsh realities of gender-based violence and human
trafficking, underscoring the urgency of Blume’s mission.
The evening’s fireside chat, moderated by Sami Khaleeq, City of Houston Commissioner for
Planning & Development and tech entrepreneur, featured two trailblazing leaders: Juliet K.
Stipeche, Director of Human Services at H-GAC, and Dr. Elizabeth Gregory, Professor of
Gender & Sexuality Studies at the University of Houston. Their insightful dialogue explored
gender equity, education access, and policy-driven change.
Guests also experienced an evocative art exhibit by internationally renowned Dutch painter
Johannes Boekhoudt, whose work captures the beauty, strength, and struggle of women
around the world.
Honoring Champions of Change
The Blume Foundation honored four extraordinary leaders whose work exemplifies courage,
vision, and transformative impact:
● Dr. Conte M. Terrell, Founder of Fresh Spirit Wellness for Women, received the
Phoenix Petal Award for her unwavering support of abuse survivors and her lifelong
dedication to emotional wellness and renewal.
● Lushin Dubey, acclaimed actor, producer, and director, was awarded the Blume
Beacon Award for her use of theater and storytelling to illuminate social justice issues
and empower marginalized voices.
● Parvez Jasani, CEO of CellPay, received the Roots and Wings Award for his quiet,
consistent support of others through visionary leadership and selfless action.
● Roopa Gir, President of the Indian American Public Affairs Council (IAPAC) and
Founder of iEducate, was honored with the Force of Nature Award for her lifelong
commitment to education, civic leadership, and youth empowerment.
The event also celebrated the work of iEducate, a Houston-based nonprofit focused on
mentoring underserved youth and nurturing future educators. CEO Arun Gir shared the
organization’s mission and its focus on creating a lasting impact in high-need communities.
● Aniali phougat, famous designer and philanthropist received the honor for creative contributions to the Petals of Hope Gala, and presenting the "She Walks free” fashion show for supporting women of human trafficking and her exceptional commitment to promoting the South Asian cultures on the world stages.
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Fashion with Purpose and a Call to Action
The gala concluded with a stunning fashion showcase, Fashion with Purpose, curated by
designer Anjali Phougat and narrated by media icon Meena Dutt. The show captured the
emotional journey of innocence, adversity, and empowerment through the lens of high couture.
Marti Nonemaker, co-founder of the Blume Foundation, offered powerful closing remarks:
“Change begins with us. Every voice, every act, every contribution helps shape a world where
women and girls can rise. Rosie Nguyen concluded the evening with heartfelt thanks to the event’s sponsors and partners
whose unwavering support propels Blume’s vital work, including:
Vesta Stream, Amir Dodhiya, LACP – Wealth Preservation and Strategies, CGS Digital
Marketing, Designer Dream Collection by Anjali Phougat, VIVA Global Events by Vaishali
Dev, Microteq Engineering Inc., Yogi International Fashion, Spark Media, Chai Gold,
Raindrop Foundation, Rupani Foundation, IAPAC, iEducate, An-Nisa, NAMI Greater
Houston, UNA Houston Chapter, and Fresh Spirit Wellness for Women.
About the Blume Foundation
The Blume Foundation is a remarkable organization dedicated to empowering women of all
ages and supporting their pursuit of personal and professional growth. Whether it’s providing
assistance to victims of domestic violence or rape, addressing the issue of gendercide, building
confidence and education for young girls, offering college tuition support, helping women build
successful careers or businesses, or providing support during breast cancer, the Blume
Foundation strives to be there for every woman.
You can be a catalyst for change by getting involved.