Who we are
Meet US
CEO- Natasha Jain
"Natasha Jain has accomplished so much at such a young age yet is never one to flaunt her accomplishments. That is most probably why I am writing her bio. Natasha has never been intimidated by the stigmas associated with being young, and that shows. When she was just 14 she sent out her book proposals to literary agents and landed a contract. During her freshman year at Regis Jesuit High School, her first book was published professionally by Tate Publishing Company. Now, it does not surprise me that Natasha has started a nonprofit. She has always been one to help everyone. Ever since she was in second grade she has tutored underprivileged children and has never failed to help me no matter what the time. She has the kindest heart and will continue to be a motivation to me and to those around her."
A huge thanks to my favorite college professor for putting this bio together for me. I wanted to talk about my motivations for starting Muskaan.
I started this organization, because I want to give back to my culture. Being Indian is an integral part of who I am. Although I am a second generation, my father was born in Virginia and my mother was born in London, I still consider myself a part of the Indian community. Usually, not many people hear (second generation or mixed Indian) perspectives. I wish that we had a voice in the community, because then our views and perspectives would not be excluded. We really have to make our own place with how we identify as being Indian. I would encourage everyone to not be dismissive of how people experience their culture. Culture is a part of our diverse identities and therefore it is something we need to be more open about. No one experiences their culture the same way. I created Muskaan because giving back is an integral part of who I am. I try to give back to my community, friends, and family in every way possible. So why couldn't I also give back to my roots? It took me some time to realize that I have every right to say that I am just as Indian as someone whose parents recently moved there.
I grew up listening to Hindu stories told by my grandmother. I got to adorn my hands with henna during Karva Chauth. My mom would teach me to make halwa during Diwali. My sister and I would dance to Bollywood music. I know how to speak Hindi and Punjabi by watching soap operas on television with my mom every day after school. Muskaan has helped me grow in my culture and who I am, but also help me do more with my passions of dentistry. It is a way I can integrate my love of dentistry and my Indian roots. My culture has given me so much and it is time I try to help in a small but meaningful way.
The fact that you are taking the time to read this makes you a part of a cultural revolution. Everyday in the news, people criticize our generation and when we want to do something to change the world around us, we are dismissed because of our age. The fact that you are looking at this website shows me that you see the worth in my ideas. It does not take a D.D.S, an M.D. a PhD or even a degree to know that what is going on in India is problematic. It really comes down to an issue of humanity. And thank you for recognizing that. It is because of people like you that I am able to have a platform for talking about my ideas and what I am most passionate about. We want to create a generational change in the way that oral health is perceived and that starts with the children.
I want to thank you all for visiting this page and coming here to learn more about me and everyone who has helped this nonprofit flourish. I have spoken at schools, churches, and businesses and am more than willing to do so in the future. I am blessed to have a strong board with women who are not only dedicated mothers, but also emerging leaders in their respective fields. So please contact us using the form! If there is a specific person you want to reach, just address the email to them and I promise to forward it. We will get back to you as soon as we can. Once again, I am truly humbled that you are engaging with Muskaan.
Fond regards,
Natasha Jain
My mom has always taught me that everyone has a gift. But it is up to us if we want to share it or bottle it away. Philanthropy dedicated to giving back to the integral parts that make up my identity is my gift. What's yours?
(Board member) Head of Dental Alliance Outreach- Chetna Mahajan
Chetna Mahajan currently works at Delta Dental and has been an inspiring leader as a strong woman in the business field. She is helping Muskaan reach more avenues that we initially thought was not possible. I have known Chetna from a young age and she not only has been a role model to me, but also a second mother. She has taught me how to be compassionate yet assertive. I am so blessed to have had her to look up to growing up. Her dedication, selflessness and willingness to thrive in her field is one of the main reasons why I chose her for my board.
(Board Member) Head of Technological Relations- Reshma Devkaran
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Reshma Devkaran is the Director of Program Execution for General Dynamics. She is dedicated to giving back to the community in any way she possibly can and is an extremely selfless and giving person. Her expertise is helping to guide Muskaan through every step of its development.
I have also known Reshma my childhood and she has always been an incredible supporter of me and my family. Whenever I have accomplished something, I know I have two families to share the news with. Reshma's intelligence and her enthusiasm makes her an incredibly supportive board member.
I have also known Reshma my childhood and she has always been an incredible supporter of me and my family. Whenever I have accomplished something, I know I have two families to share the news with. Reshma's intelligence and her enthusiasm makes her an incredibly supportive board member.