Blake SASA: A Look into Future Plans

The South Asian Students Association (SASA) at Blake is a club open to all interested in learning about South Asian culture. The club offers fun activities, snacks, and an open community with meetings every other Friday in room D251.

On October 9th, Blake’s South Asian Students Association held their first interest meeting. At this meeting, they highlighted the many South Asian countries and their diverse cultures. In future meetings, they plan to discuss topics like South Asian portrayal in media, fashion, or cuisine.

For members of SASA, the club is more than just another extracurricular. The club is a place for them to connect with one another through and leave an impact on the community. On November 12th, the club is planning to participate in the international night at William Tyler Page Elementary School. “We’re planning to present the diverse and vibrant culture of South Asia through hands-on activities. I’m super excited to present because I’m also learning more about my culture through this club. I hope families learn something new and students are inspired to start their own cultural clubs in the future” said club president Anika Paranjape. She hopes they can use their next meeting to prepare for this event.

 Anika stated, “having SASA at Blake helps create a close community of those interested in learning about South Asia and its culture.” 

Through shared experiences and diverse cultures, SASA connects students from all backgrounds. It’s great for representation and belonging as well as sharing and celebrating our heritage” says Anika.

Until recent years, Blake didn’t have a SASA. Even though surrounding schools like Paint Branch have had the club for a while, Blake only started having regular meetings last year. “I hope it’s something that can continue here at Blake,” said Anika.

Blake first started SASA around two years ago. Since then, they have hoped to be more active with meetings and expand the reach of their club activities to more students. They hope to offer opportunities for students to be involved in the local community through cultural events and other programs. 

By promoting cultural awareness, having a SASA impacts the community as a whole, encouraging students to take pride and remain connected to their cultures.