About | Convention Board

secretary@jaina.org OR chairman@jsmcoffice.com

• Co-Convener, JAINA Convention 2025
• Secretary, JAINA
• Chairman, Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC)

An enthusiastic and visionary leader, Vipul has actively volunteered at JSMC for 16 years, serving roles such as Membership Secretary (2010-2012), General Secretary (2012-2015), President (2016-2019), Vice Chairman (2020), Board of Trustee (2020-current), and Chairman (current). As JSMC president in 2018, he organized a 10-day Mahotsav celebrating the Temple’s 25th Anniversary.

Currently, Vipul is the JAINA Secretary for 2024-25, and prior, he served as Secretary and Board member for the 2023 JAINA Convention. As Chairperson (2020-2023) of JAINA’s Jain Center Liaison Committee (JCLC), he revitalized its charter, fostering effective collaboration among Jain Center Presidents and promoting a culture of learning and sharing. He led the Marketing and PR committees at the JAINA Convention in 2021 and 2023, and headed the Jains Got Talent committee in 2019.

At JSMC, Vipul has spearheaded several initiatives, including the Health Fair, Medical Clinic, Mela, and Food Court programs, all of which have served to strengthen JSMC’s community charter and become integral parts of JSMC life over the years. Vipul also pioneered numerous social, networking, and spiritual events with the goal of enriching the understanding of Jainism and Indian heritage across all age groups.

He is passionate about modernizing JSMC and JAINA through technology and improving operations through automation and cloud-based solutions. Vipul believes in collaboration and transparency in nonprofit work. Respect, Trust, Integrity, and Accountability are core values he upholds.

With a BS in Chemical Engineering (India) and an MS in Computer Science (IIT Chicago), Vipul has worked at Microsoft for 18 years, currently as Director for Data & AI Sales in Financial Services. He’s married to Reshma (Level 2 Pathshala teacher since 2004, JAB coach since 2011, CPA) and proud father to Anand (PhD candidate at MIT), Janvi (Consultant at Deloitte), and Ravi (Wells Scholar at Indiana University).

Jignesh has been a Trustee at Jain Society of Metro Chicago (JSMC) since 2016. Over the last 15 years, as a Trustee/Vice-Chairman and as a dedicated volunteer, Jignesh has led or played key roles in different JSMC initiatives including its 10-day 25th Anniversary Program, Constitution Amendment, Education Awards Program, Endowment & Planned Giving Program and various capital projects, to name a few. As a Trustee, Jignesh has also been a lead for multiple areas including Financial Management, Jivdaya, Policy & Procedures, PR, Insurance & Legal.

Jignesh has also been a JAINA Director from Chicago, a core member of JAINA’s JCLC (Jain Center Liaison Committee), Chair of JAINA’s Scholarship Committee and Co-chair of PR Committee (JAINA Convention 2019).

Jignesh did his computer engineering from IIT-Mumbai and MBA from University of Chicago. Professionally, he has been in various leadership roles at Tokyo-based multinational NEC. He currently serves as Senior Director, Corporate Strategy & Market. Jignesh lives in Schaumburg with his wife and 2 daughters.

Driven by the vision of ‘Jain 2.0: Where Technology Meets Tradition,’ I’m dedicated to revitalizing Jainism for the next generation. I would like to be a leading force in revitalizing Jainism for the next generation by seamlessly integrating modern technology with core Jain principles. I do firmly believe that Jain values can be discovered and applied in the contemporary world, fostering a vibrant and connected Jain community.

For more than past 25 years, I have been a dedicated volunteer within the Jain community. My extensive experience at JAINA conventions (2019, 2021, 2023) exemplifies this commitment. As co-chair of the multimedia and technology team, I championed seamless integration of technology. Beyond JAINA, I served as Joint Secretary at the Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (2016-2019) and spearheaded efforts on the Jain Centers Liaison Committee to develop standardized technology practices, providing common platform across Jain centers in America.

Current JAINA Treasurer since 2022. Vice President at Jain Society Of Central Florida. Live in Daytona Beach Florida.

Apurva Bhansali is a member of the JAINA EC for 2024-2025, serving in the role of Southwest Region VP. Apurva is one of the founding members of the Jain Sangh of Greater Austin and has served as the President of Sangh from 2005-2011. Apurva served on the 2023 JAINA Convention Board and has been a speaker at YJA conventions in the past as well. From 2012-2018, Apurva was on the JSGA Deraser Executive Committee that was responsible for construction of the first Jain temple in Central Texas. Apurva lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Nehal, who helped started the Austin Pathshala, and has two kids, Ayush and Ashna both who have been active in YJA. eers on the day-to-day operations.

PRESIDENT – JAINA
Contact: President@jaina.org

CONVENTION CONVENER 2023
Hosted one of the most memorable JAINA Convention
26+ months of planning & leadership brought very memorable Convention experience. Managed challenging inflationary pressures.
Committees: Lead Convention Board, Steering (leadership, Decisions), Fund-Raising (Personally raised 200+K), Sessions Planning, Facility, Temple, Decoration, Tirth Darshan, Food, Transportation, Cultural Program and more…

JAINA-FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT (2022-2023)

CONVENTION CO-CONVENER 2021

JAINA-Regional VP Southeast (2019-2021)

JAINA-ADULT LEADERSHIP AWARD RECEIPIENT – 2017

JAINA-Academic Liaison Committee – SECRETARY (2015-2022)

JAINA Convention presenter (2015,2017,2019,2021,2023)

Jain Education & Research Foundation President 2015-2016

Jain Center of South Florida (1996 -2018)

Mr. Dipak Doshi is CEO of Protocol Link, Inc., a Chicago-based management consulting firm serving pharma, device, & diagnostic companies. Mr. Doshi’s firm represents over 120 clients across 980 projects in 36 countries.

Mr. Doshi is a frequent speaker at industry platforms and at non-profit forums and conferences. He has served and continues to serve several non-profits.

2009-2025 Convention Board (2009, 2011, 2013, 2021, 2025) – JAINA
2019-2021 Co-Chair, Convention PR & Press-Media – JAINA
2013-2019 Chairman, LRP Committee – JAINA
2011-2013 Treasurer & EC – JAINA
2019-2021 Trustee – YJA
2022-2023 Co-Chair, CAC – JSMC
2015-2019 Advisory Board- JSMC
2008-2015 Board of Trustee, JSMC
2008-2009 Chairman & Trustee – JSMC
2001-2007 Chief Election Judge – JSMC
2017-2023 Secretary – JITO USA
1987-2024 Trustee & CFO – IMD Trust

Manoj Jain, MD MPH is an infectious disease physician, writer, and philanthropist. He is a member of JAINA’s Long Range Planning Committee and author of the Jain Path book. He trained at Boston University, Tufts University, and Harvard School of Public Health. Dr. Jain is a faculty at Emory University. He has been dubbed “Dr. Fauci of Memphis” by the city Mayor.

Dr. Jain has published in the Washington Post, USA Today-TN, New York Times, and Time magazine and has been interviewed by CNN and National Public Radio. Dr. Jain founded CETI, a non-profit that collaborates to eliminate tuberculosis and Gandhi-King Conference, which convenes individuals for nonviolence. Dr. Jain is married to Dr. Sunita Jain, and they have three children pursuing careers in law, medicine, and engineering.

Co Convener of 2009 and 2019 JAINA Convention.
Have chaired various committees of JAINA Convention.
Past President of Jain Center of Southern California.
President of Anekqnt Community Center and Aparigrah Foundation.
Professor of Anesthesiology and Critical Care at Loma Linda University Health.

Hemant Shah, Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC)

Avid and active volunteer Hemant Shah is a proven and effective leader of the Jain Community. He pioneered and led successful events and fundraisers for JSMC, JAINA & other non-profit organizations. With enthusiasm, structured efforts, commitment, teamwork, and unity; he helped raise the bar for Jaina services and leadership. Through his many initiatives and accomplishments, using effective public relations and effective administration, he has improved the visibility of JSMC and JAINA on a national scale.

Recipient of JAINA Presidential Award (2021) and JAINA adult award (2017), Hemant has always promoted Jain values to Jains and non-Jains throughout North America. Hemant has served JAINA in various roles, as JAINA Secretary (2019-2021), Regional JAINA Vice-President for Midwest (2013-2016), member of various JAINA and Convention committees and representing JSMC as a JAINA Director (2011-2021).

For over a decade, Hemant has served the JSMC Executive committee and Board, in various roles, as Membership Secretary, Vice President, Board of Trustee and Chairman of the Board. Hemant is also instrumental to several other non-profit organizations, including Jain Visa Oshwal group of North America, OASIS-employer organization and Rotary International, and has been awarded for his distinguished services.

Chemical Engineer and IT professional, Hemant Shah is sharing his 20+ years of expertise as a Technology Manager and a Principal Architect at AT&T.

Hemant Shah is happily married to a very talented and lovely wife Lina, and blessed with two sons, Captain Dr. Shikhar & Rishabh.

My name is Hitesh Shah. I am a proud life time member of JSMC for more than 30 years.
currently I am a active volunteer for food court area and also a co-chair for construction committee. I was part of EC committee for 14 years and served as a food secretary from 2002 to 2012 and vice president from 2012 to 2015. Also served as a BOT for Six years from 2015 to 2021 during these time Two years as vice chairman and Two years as a chairman.
Also served as a Jaina director from 2017 to 2021 and from 2023 to present.

2015 – In Atlanta convention served as a CC member for Food Committee
2017 – In New Jersey convention helped in kitchen area.
2019 – In LA convention served as a co-chair for Food Committee.
2023 – In Lake Land Florida convention served as a co-chair for Food Committee.

I would like to say thank you to Jaina Team for giving me an opportunity to become a part Jaina convention Board for 2025 Jain convention in Chicago.

Jainesh is a graduate of the University of Houston with a degree in mechanical engineering. He also has a Master of Business Administration from Rice University.

After graduating from UH, he started his career in the oil and gas service industry and founded Case Services. Under his leadership, Case Services became an industry leader in software technologies for petroleum production and automation sector. His products monitor the operation of the producing on-shore oil wells in the United States. Case Services was later acquired by Weatherford International.

As a Director of the Mehta Family Foundation, Jainesh participates in the foundation giving in the areas of education and healthcare in Houston and India. In Houston, the foundation supports Depelchin, Ronald McDonald House, Bo’s place, Methodist Hospital, MD Anderson, The Kinkaid School and others. The Foundation also supports several other educational organizations in India, such as the IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) system. Jainesh has served multiple years on the Engineering Leadership Board at the University of Houston and on the Board of Trustees of The Kinkaid School.

Jainesh is particularly invested in supporting and advising “Veerayatan”, an organization dedicated to Service, Education, & Spiritual Upliftment. Jainesh currently has the responsibility to develop Veerayatan’s Palitana projects: A school for underprivileged; A state of the art Eye Hospital; and A Residential Center of Jain Studies. Jainesh has spent over a decade supporting and serving with “MANAV SADHNA”, a Mahatama Gandhi Ashram institution in Ahmadabad India. The institute addresses the educational, spiritual, lodging and boarding needs of orphaned and underprivileged children.

Besides his work with the Foundation, Jainesh has been a Jain Pathshala teacher at Jain Center of Houston for over 10 years. He was successful in starting the youth and adult Jain Education classes and taught them for over 6 years. Ever since his own children began learning about Jainism, Jainesh has been devoted to learning and teaching the “Jain Way of Life” to college students and adults. He is actively involved in the construction of the new worship and community center for the Jain community of Houston. He has served in multiple advisory roles for JAINA, a federation of Jain organizations in North American and as co-convenor of 2 national JAINA conventions.

Jainesh has been a Houstonian since 1980 and lives here with this wife, Mamta and two daughters, Jinal and Jeel.

Mr. Jigar Shah brings a wealth of experience, having served as the Immediate Past President of Jain Center of New Jersey (JCNJ), current JAINA Regional VP, Chairman on JITO USA NY chapter, a successful serial entrepreneur, and a leader in one of the top five financial institutions in the USA.
Under Mr. Shah’s leadership, a unique and world first ever BhavTirth was envision and successfully inaugurated by grand pratishtha in 2022 at JCNJ. His unique perspective, commitment to the Jain community, and vision for its growth will make upcoming JAINA convention a Hugh success.

Jain Leader: Kalpana Gandhi
Kalpana Gandhi is a dedicated advocate for community growth, spiritual development, and cultural preservation within the Jain Center, providing visionary leadership and commitment to Jain principles.
Key Contributions:
Played a big role in establishing an art gallery and food committee in 2005.
Served as President of the Jain Center of America, enhancing community engagement.
Represented JAINA at the United Nations for six years.

Vision for Jain Community Leadership:
1. Spiritual Enrichment:Promote: spiritual growth through discourses, meditation, and  workshops by Jain scholars.
2. Inclusivity and Diversity: Create a welcoming space for all with diverse programs.
3. Youth Empowerment: Develop mentorship programs and educational initiatives.
4. Philanthropic Initiatives: Implement service projects embodying ahimsa and seva.
5. Technological Innovation: Utilize technology to enhance communication and expand reach.
6. Preserving Jain Heritage: Organize events to celebrate and preserve Jain culture.

Vision as Regional VP for JAINA:

Strengthen community bonds and promote Jain values.
Empower the youth with mentorship and leadership opportunities.
Foster interfaith engagement and dialogue.
Support charitable initiatives.
Embrace technology for effective communication and outreach.
Celebrate Jain culture through events and exhibitions. Empower women through workshops and skill development programs.

Accomplishments Successfully carried out my duties working in different capacities as follows:
1. JCSC Executive Committee Member… 2008-2009
2. JCSC Pratishtha Committee Member… 2008-2009
3. JCSC 25th anniversary Committee Member… 2013
4. 2009 JAINA Convention Los Angeles Board Member
5. Chairman Jain Digest Committee….2016 – 2019
6. Chairman JAINA Calendar Committee….2016 – 2019
7. Convener – 2019 JAINA Convention
8. Past JTLA Board Director
9. Past President Federation Of Jain Association in North America (JAINA)
( Umbrella Organization of 71 Jain Centers in North America)
10. Past President Anekant Community Center
( ACC has been doing FREE medical/surgical camps all across the Globe) and current Director at ACC.
11. Trustee Shri SRMD-USA

My vision and goal would be to perform a variety of community outreach programs.

I’ve been an active volunteer for past 14 years at Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago and over a decade of volunteering with JAINA. Here is a brief synopsis of my work at both JAINA and JSMC

JAINA
• Chairperson of JAINA Community Voluntary Committee
• Past Chairperson of JAIN Connect Committee.
• Member of JAINA Conventions board and planning team since 2015 under following capacity
• 2023 Convention, FL – Convention Board Member, Jain Connect Chair, Programming committee team member
• 2021 Convention, Virtual – Convention Board Member, Member of Steering Committee, Member of Fund-Raising Team, Member of Programming committee, Member of Virtual Tirth Darshan Committee
• 2019 Convention, LA – Member of Jain Connect committee, Member of YJP committee
• 2017 Convention, NJ – Youth Committee Co-Chair, helped the convention team with food logistics
• 2015 Convention, GA – Youth Committee Co-Chair
• 2013 Convention, MI – Volunteered for Jain Networking Forum
• Local Promoter and JSMC ECBOT Liaison for 2018 YJA Convention

JSMC
• Served as President of Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC) from 2020 to 2023
• Served as General Secretary of JSMC from 2016 to 2019
• Served as Membership Secretary of JSMC from 2012 to 2015
• Served as Youth Secretary of JSMC from 2010 to 2011

Have been involved with Jain Center of Greater Boston (JCGB) for more than 20+ years in different roles, attended most of the Jaina Conventions. Moved to florida 5 years ago and involved with Jain Center of South Florida (JCSF), and led Day time programming committee for 2023 Jaina Convention. Worked at Stratus computer in Massachusetts for 20+ years before joining family printing business.

Retired but as a hobby doing real estate in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida to help winterbirds move here for their retirement. Active member of Jaina Senior housing Project and hoping to get that moving at faster pace.

Email: President@jsmcoffice.com

Cell #: (630) 975-3122

Education: BS in Computer Science, NEIU Chicago

Profession: Healthcare (HIM Security)

A dynamic and committed visionary motivated to promote Jainism in North America, and foster unity and community among Jains. I am very fortunate to be the President of the Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC). JSMC is one of the biggest Sangh in North America, offering a unified platform where all sects worship under one roof. My previous roles involve being the JSMC General Secretary, Membership Secretary, and a dedicated volunteer for many years.

My Contributions to JSMC
General Secretary (2020 – 2023)
• Organized and led many events like MJK, Anniversary, Paryusuan/Das Lakshan, Health Fair/Health clinic, Mela, Diwali
• Revamped JSMC’s weekly communication and quarterly newsletter to facilitate better communication between the ECBOT (Executive Committee and Board of Trustees)
and members.
• Led many online/in-person Pravachan that involved Maharaj Saheb and distinguished dignitaries.
• During the pandemic, incorporated the use of Zoom for Darshan/aarti/lectures every Sunday evening to help the members continue to practice Jainism while social distancing
• Also, during the pandemic, gathered and delivered PPE to local police/fire departments as well as perishable food to surrounding pantries. Also led JSMC volunteers to deliver groceries to seniors.
Membership Secretary (2016-2019)
• Played a lead role in proclamations and resolutions with the state of Illinois in naming part of Route 59 as “Mahavir Swami Road.” This is a significant accomplishment for Jains outside of India.
• Developed efficient methods to increase JSMC membership and streamline communication between members and the ECBOT
• Helped strengthen our relationship with surrounding temples and improved our relationship with the Village of Bartlett officials and local police/fire departments.
• Attended faith leaders’ meetings with the President of the Village of Bartlett and led a team to have the sitting Governor of IL attend the JSMC 25th anniversary celebration.

My Contributions to JAINA
• Attended many JAINA conventions and helped coordinate to bring other JSMC members to JAINA
• Volunteered in tech support during the virtual convention
• Volunteered in many JAINA conventions including with the Jain Academic Bowl

Vision:
• Play a central role in providing an honest and transparent sustainability for our members to pursue their religious beliefs to develop a supportive and close-knit community.
• Bring state-of-the-art technology and advancements to further security and experiences at JSMC
• Increase our volunteer base and be a mentor to members interested in serving JSMC
• Increase the participation of the Jain youth and seniors in the community

Rahul Jain serves as the Chief Technology Officer for Accenture’s Department of Veteran’s Affairs account. In this capacity, Rahul oversees personnel management, growth strategies, and technology delivery. Beyond his professional role, Rahul actively contributes to various community roles, holding positions such as the Co-Chair for the Akshaya Patra DC Chapter, Director of Public Relations for the Jain Society of Metropolitan Washington, and Chief Secretary of JITO DC Chapter. Together with his wife, Savita Jain, who leads PR for JAINA, they reside in Clarksville, MD, with their two talented children, Sara and Rishab Jain.

Mr. Rajeev Pandya is a Partner and Cofounder of ASHI Diamonds & Avalon Solution, a Diamond Jewelry Manufacturer and Ecommerce Software company based out of NY, with offices in USA, India & China. He is a graduate of the New York University – Stern Business School.

He currently serves on the Board & Treasurer of JITO USA, Founder & Former Chairperson of JITO NY and Board of International Ahimsa Foundation.

In the past he has served as the President of IDCA – Indian Diamond Association, JAINA 2019, 2021 & 2023 Convention Board & Co-Chair of the Fundraising Committee, & YJP Advisory Board. He has previously served as the Chairperson of the JAINA Calendar Committee and the North-East Regional VP of JAINA.

He is a Benefactor Trustee of the Jain Center of America in NY.

My U.S. journey began in 1997 with degrees in Engineering and Finance. As a registered Professional Engineer in Michigan, I contribute to engineering practices. As Project Executive, I lead initiatives, contributing to successful project execution. Actively engaging with the Jain Society of Greater Detroit (JSGD) since 2003, I held roles such as Treasurer, President, and Chairman. Leading the 2013 Detroit JAINA Convention showcased my ability to manage financial responsibilities. My commitment extends to the JAINA Senior Housing Project, addressing community needs. Being part of this project aligns with my vision of contributing to community well-being.

In essence, my life journey is one of continuous growth, marked by academic achievements, professional excellence, and commitment to the Jain community.

I’m an engineer by education and a successful businessman. I’m the President resident of Jain Temple of Los Angeles. I’ve been involved with JCSC for over 30 years in different capacities. I was 2019 JAINA Convention Borad members and had Chaired a couple of committees and part of various committees.

Served Jain Society of Toronto for over 35 years in every capacity. & immediate past President.
Served Jaina as a Director, Was in the Awards committee few times, & recently was in the Election Committee.
Was the moderator of the inaugural of the first Town Hall Meeting for nominated Jaina Executive Candidates just recently & now serving as the current Jaina Board.

Member of Jain center of Northern California
I serve as the JAINA liaison for YJA and work with YJP. I am a member of JAINA’s Jivdaya and Women’s committees. JAINA EC 22-23 represented as a VP of USA west coast. I have served JAINA in various roles including secretary 2016-17.
I have served as President of the Jain Center of Northern California in 2010-11 and as BOD Chair in 2012, 2013 and 2020. I serve as a director for the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council and a Board member of the city of San José and Pune sister city coalition. I have volunteered for several years as a California state ombudsman for nursing homes.
One of my lifelong dreams has been to keep our young, second generation interested in Ahimsa and Jainism. Travel and community service are my passions.

A highly energetic and inspiring Chicago Jain Sangh (JSMC) Leader served on the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees. Fortunate to serve as a Board of Trustee and recently completed the role of Chairman and vice Chairman part of the JSMC Board. In the Executive Committee, served as a President and Secretary. In the leadership roles extensively helped with a myriad of community tasks and contributed to many JAINA, YJA projects. During 2021 JAINA Convention lead Dignitary Sessions, part of Multimedia & Technology team. Actively engaged in YJA, supported 2022 YJA Convention under the leadership of my son Satej Shah (YJA Co-Chair 2021-22) and currently supporting 2024 YJA Convention with my daughter Saanji Shah (YJA Board Member 2023-24 & 2024 Convention Committee Member) As a leader heightened level of JSMC’s unity, operations in all aspects of promoting religious, spiritual, cultural, and community objectives. Received JAINA Adult Award during 2015 JAINA Convention.

Born, Educated and Married in Bangalore, India,
Graduated as Bachelor’s In Commerce, Certified in Fashion and Interior Designing, Academic achievement in Jainism studies.
Sports Enthusiast: State-level player in hockey, shot put, and billiards
Professional Path: Worked in Back office operations at Iseva Systems and Honeywell Aerospace industry as Team Leader. Currently taking on the roles of a homemaker, School substitute teacher and Pathshala teacher
Life’s Joys: Finding joy in the little moments, creating memories with family, and exploring.
the beauty of life
Adventure and Sports Lover: Thrives on adventure and sports, constantly seeking new
challenges and experiences
Moved to USA in 2006 and to Illinois in 2007, JSMC member since 2007 participated and volunteered in several JSMC events. Pathshala Teacher for Level 4 since 2021

Active member of Jain Society of Greater Atlanta (JSGA) since 2002.
Took very active role during 2008 construction and Pratishtha ceremony of the temple.
2015 JAINA Convention Board Member in Atlanta. Lead Exhibitions/Booths, Facilities and Hotel Management committees.
2017 JAINA Conversion Board Member in NJ. Lead Exhibitions/Booths committee.
2019 JAINA Exhibitions/Booths Co-Chair.
2020 to Current JAINA Board Director representing JSGA .
Have been conducting food drive for last 14+ years during Mahavir Janam Kalyanak at JSGA. Donated over 14000+ food boxes to various charitable organizations.
Participated in many health fairs/seminars at JSGA.
Currently part of the JSGA temple expansion team to add 22K+ SF space.
Actively involved in RAJA (Rajasthani Association in Atlanta).
Profession – IT Operations Manager/Consultant for Health Care Organization
Passion – I have a new homes construction business where I build custom homes ranging from $1M+ to $3M+.
My wife is a Pulmonary/Critical Care/Sleep physician and have 3 adult children.

I am founding member of Jain Center of Southern California. I was member of very first JAINA Convention in Los Angeles. Involved in 2009, 2019 convention board in Los Angeles and other conversations as committee member. Served as EC member, BOD member, VP and as President of Jain Center of Southern California since inception.