The South Asian Bar Association of Austin (SABA Austin) was founded in 2013 with a vision of creating a professional community that would bring together South Asian attorneys and legal professionals in the Austin area. The concept was born out of a Leadership Austin project initiated by Ami Desai, a local Indian American attorney, whose vision was to connect the South Asian legal community.
In August 2011, the first gathering was held at the home of Hon. Sherine Thomas and Tom Nuckols, bringing together members of the legal community who shared an interest in building a stronger network for South Asian attorneys in Austin. The gathering of approximately 40 attorneys marked the beginning of something truly meaningful. The connections were immediate and genuine. Bringing together South Asian attorneys from across diverse practice areas, it revealed the extraordinary depth, talent, and vibrancy of our community in Austin. What began as a gathering became the foundation for a growing organization—one that would create lasting connections, celebrate our shared heritage, and build a stronger, more united community. A recurring observation was that the attendees were surprised to learn there were so many South Asian attorneys in the Austin area.
Led by Sujata Ajmera, a few dedicated South Asian attorneys, including Hon. George C. Thomas, Leena Chaphekar, Ajeet Pai, Anuj Dharia, and Arpana Davis, got to the hard work of formalizing the organization, creating an infrastructure to support a vibrant South Asian legal community, and organizing events. Their hard work laid the foundation for an enduring organization dedicated to professional development, mentorship, community engagement, and service.
SABA Austin affiliated with the South Asian Bar Association of North America in 2015 and has continued to build connections among attorneys while supporting leadership, mentorship, and civic engagement within the community locally and nationally.
In 2023, SABA Austin celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of accomplishments, friendships, professional growth, and service. From its humble beginnings with a small group of visionaries to a recognized organization within Austin’s legal community, SABA Austin continues to honor the spirit in which it was founded and looks forward to growing that legacy for future generations.
