Matribhumi Samachar English
Chennai. Under the visionary leadership of President Rotarian Nisreen Madraswala, the Rotary Club of Chennai Bharathi successfully hosted SPARK – Season 1 on Saturday, 7th June 2025 at CP Art Centre, Alwarpet. The event proved to be more than just a marketplace – it was a vibrant confluence of sustainability, inclusivity, and heartfelt entrepreneurial journeys.
Curated as a tribute to World Environment Day and Pride Month, SPARK brought together 30+ purpose-driven brands, each offering handcrafted, sustainable, and ethically made products. What truly set the event apart was the compelling narrative behind every stall — from women-led enterprises to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and eco-warriors, every participant embodied a story of courage, creativity, and conscious living.
With bustling footfall and enthusiastic community participation, the event created a dynamic space for learning, networking, pitching, and celebration. From medicinal chutneys and guilt-free desserts to sustainable fashion and handcrafted wellness products, visitors discovered a spectrum of offerings that align commerce with conscience.
President Nisreen Madraswala, the driving force behind SPARK, shared,
“Our intent was simple yet powerful – to create a space where local talent gets the spotlight it deserves, and conscious brands get the support they need. We wanted to bridge the gap between meaningful businesses and mindful consumers. Seeing the energy, passion, and purpose in that room – it’s clear that SPARK is only the beginning of a larger movement.”
The event also featured product pitches judged by an esteemed jury, interactive showcases, and creative performances – including music, art, and comedy all designed to highlight the diverse talents of this spirited community. The energy was electric, with participants gaining visibility, connections, and in many cases, new customers and collaborators.
SPARK Pitch Winners:
- 🥇 Sangeeta Nahata – Drama Lama – ₹25,000
- 🥈 Naval Joshi – Shiv Sai Foods – ₹15,000
- 🥉 Divya Pammuru – Namma Suvai – ₹10,000
From Artisans Buzz’s upcycled bags made by women using tailoring waste, to Viridian Plate’s plant-based culinary innovations, to Namma Suvai’s farm-fresh groceries, each brand at SPARK is a potential feature story in itself. The entrepreneurial spirit on display resonated deeply with visitors, many of whom lingered to listen, engage, and support.
Importantly, the event also contributed to a greater cause – raising funds for women-led and trans-inclusive enterprises, including a home caterer working toward opening her own restaurant and a single mother scaling her small business.
SPARK Season 1 was not just a successful event – it was a celebration of resilience, responsibility, and revival. The Rotary Club of Chennai Bharathi extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, visitors, volunteers, and supporters who made it possible.
For press or feature opportunities around any of the inspiring brands showcased at SPARK, or to learn more about upcoming initiatives, please feel free to get in touch.
