Unpacking the Roles of South Asian Men (Men Only Event)

Dec Topic: Unpacking the Roles of South Asian Men

South Asian men often grow up taught to provide, protect, and lead—roles rooted in love but often tied to pressure and silence. This men-only Chalo Baatein Karen session opens space to talk about the expectations that define “being a man,” the difficulty of showing vulnerability, and how those roles evolve through different stages of life—from creating an identity, raising families, through navigating retirement and aging.

Get To Know the Speakers

Sanjeev Balarajan: Sanjeev Balarajan is an Associate Marriage and Family therapist at Trust Mental Health. He holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Santa Clara University and an MBA from the Presidio Graduate School. Driven by a passion for supporting men’s growth and well-being, Sanjeev transitioned from a successful career in technology to the mental health field. He founded a coaching practice dedicated to helping South Asian men navigate cultural conflicts and personal challenges. Over the past decade, he has been actively involved in leading and participating in men’s peer support groups and personal development workshops.

Ratnesh Sharma: Ratnesh Sharma is an advisor with Rcoz and a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in business strategy and community building. Deeply connected to the South Asian diaspora and currently seeking therapy licensure, he is passionate about creating spaces where men can reflect on identity, vulnerability, and strength beyond traditional expectations. Through his work and lived experience, Ratnesh advocates for redefining masculinity in ways that honor both resilience and emotional authenticity.

Free event | Open only to individuals who identify as men

Date & Time: December 7, 2025, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Location: Los Altos, CA (full address to be provided week of the event)

Register here>>