Recognizing Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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Pentair Communications
Pentair Communications

05/17/2023

Recognizing Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

During the month of May we recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, which celebrates the achievements, contributions, cultures and traditions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Hear from members of our Asian American employee affinity network about what it means to them to be part of the AAPI community and how Pentair supports and recognizes their cultural diversity. 

Surabhi Gawande Employee Image

Surabhi Gawande“My identity as a South Asian woman living in the U.S. (raising two daughters), has a huge impact on how I live my life and conduct myself in social settings and in the workplace. My experiences have shaped how I empathize with co-workers, relate to people who are different from me, and bring people together to achieve a common goal. I continue to learn from my girls as well as I watch them navigate the intermingled threads of their cultural heritage that is shaping their identities as Asian Americans. 

At Pentair I am proud to be part of a diverse team that values and embraces inclusive culture. Our Employee Affinity Groups and Business Resource Groups are a perfect example of how Pentair is creating meaningful spaces for discussions about the challenges faced by specific ethnicities and intersectionalities, while celebrating and educating leaders and colleagues about the individual cultures of Asian Americans.”

Abdul Ahad Rangoonwala Headshot

Abdul-Ahad Rangoonwala"As a second-generation American, it is important to me to stay in touch with my South Asian culture and heritage. My Mom is from Hyderabad, India; and my Dad from Karachi, Pakistan. After coming to the U.S., they settled in Chicago, a city rich with culture from all parts of Asia, which has allowed us to never lose touch with our roots. 

A cool fact is that my last name, Rangoonwala, has a literal meaning. Before moving to Pakistan, my Dad and Grandfather were born and raised in Rangoon (now known as Yangon, Myanmar). In Urdu language, “Wala” translates to “of” or “from,” so, Rangoonwala translates to: From Rangoon.

Throughout my Pentair career I never feel excluded or left out as it is such a diverse and inclusive company! Being Asian American is my identity and I am so proud to be part of a company that recognizes this!”

Naomi Moore Employee Photo

Naomi Moore“I grew up in small town Minnesota and didn’t want to acknowledge (much less celebrate) my AAPI heritage to avoid being “different.” It wasn’t until adulthood when I lived in more diverse cities, that I was able to reflect on and better appreciate my heritage. I especially appreciate and recognize that, along with others in the AAPI community, we are an important part of the diversity that makes us stronger.

My work at Pentair has been especially impactful for me as a professional because I am able to collaborate and celebrate with a richly diverse team – this is the first time in my career where that has been possible. I’m incredibly proud to work for a company that values and is committed to building an inclusive and diverse culture.”

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