Hi everyone! I'm Neeva Patel, a 16-year-old high school student from Massachusetts with a big dream: to tell the stories of Indian immigrants in America, especially those who worked in hospitality. My grandparents, like many others, came here with hope for a better life, but it wasn't always easy.

Sadly, my grandfather recently passed away, and I never got the chance to hear all the details of his journey. He was one of many who found themselves working in the bustling world of small, family-run motels. These motels became a training ground for so many Indian immigrants, my grandparents included. They poured their dedication into their work, the long hours a testament to their resilience. But theirs wasn't just a story of hard work; it's a story of eventual success. Through their sacrifices, they achieved a version of the American dream, building a better life for themselves and future generations.

I will always regret not being able to hear my grandfather’s story as told by him. I will never truly know his story but I do not want that to be the case for others like him. That's why I'm creating a digital archive to capture these experiences before they're lost.

This isn't just about remembering the past, it's about celebrating the strength and determination of the Gujarati and broader Indian community, as well as immigrants as a whole. History matters, and by sharing these stories, I want to inspire others to embrace their heritage, chase their dreams, and learn from those who came before us.

Join me on this adventure! Let's honor the legacy of these amazing people and create a digital record that will inspire future generations. Together, we can show the world the power of resilience and the beauty of Indian heritage.