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Step2StepUp hosts Awards Night in Ontario CA
Step2StepUp Founder and Convener Vasu Pawar encouraged individuals to become self-sufficient, independent, and job creators rather than job seekers.
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Staff Reporter - Sun, 24, May 2026
- 01:37 EDT
- 34
Attendees of the event posing for a photo / Courtesy photo
Step2StepUp organized the Step2StepUp Awards Night 2026 and officially launched the ICONIQ.GLOBAL Magazine, on May 17, as a celebration of excellence, empowerment, leadership, and cultural diversity.
Hosted by Step2StepUp Founder and Convener Vasu Pawar in Ontario, California, the event brought together distinguished dignitaries, influential leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and community members.
The event kicked off with a meet-and-greet reception which featured live violin performances, gourmet appetizers, vintage wines, red carpet photography, and networking opportunities.
Pawar, during her address, shared her personal journey of overcoming challenges and spoke passionately about women’s empowerment, modern leadership, and creating opportunities for women to become entrepreneurs.
She also encouraged individuals to become self-sufficient, independent, and job creators rather than job seekers.
Chief Guest of Honor Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, accompnied by Ashwini Srinivasa, delivered keynote addresses focusing on leadership, humanity, service, and hope for future generations.
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A key highlight of the event was the official launch of ICONIQ.GLOBAL Magazine, dedicated to showcasing iconic voices, influential stories, and global changemakers.
Bobbie Chance, who was featured on the magazine’s cover, was honored at the event. She also shared her experiences as a coach to top Hollywood stars, motivating others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
During the ceremony, 24 awardees were honored, with each award linked to a principle of life as represented by the Ashoka Chakra.
The recipients delivered messages about their achievements and contributions to their industries and communities.
Among notable attendees of the event was California State Treasurer, Fiona Ma.
Ma addressed the gathering and presented Certificates of Encouragement to Vasu Pawar, the Step2StepUp team, and all award recipients for their service and efforts in building stronger communities.
The evening also featured multicultural entertainment performances that celebrated diversity and artistic excellence.
Special appreciation was extended to the event’s sponsors and partners who made the program possible, including Hema Reddy Rachmale, the Grand Marshal of the event, Dr. Bharat Patel, Ashok & Manju Madan, Aishveryaa Nidhi, Hark Vasa, Wallis Bank, State Bank of India, Anil & Sonal Desai, Suru Menek and Naresh Bhakta, among many others.
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