Motivational speakers, AI in Hollywood, and dynamic startup pitches mark a successful chapter event in Carlsbad, CA. The ITServe Los Angeles Chapter Monthly Meeting and National Team Tour, held on October 8, 2025, at The Crossings at Carlsbad, CA, drew industry leaders, innovators, and community advocates for an event brimming with inspiration and insight. Spearheaded by ITServe President Anju Vallabhaneni and President-Elect Siva Moopanar, the gathering highlighted the organization’s commitment to professional growth and social responsibility.
Madhu Yalla, Los Angeles Chapter President and chief organizer, opened the evening by expressing deep gratitude to the ITServe National Team for their support and presence. “Your efforts created the right buzz in San Diego and motivated our local chapter members.
Special thanks to Anju and Siva for sharing the benefits that helped everyone better understand the value of ITServe membership,” Yalla stated, noting the chapter’s recent relaunch and its renewed momentum.
Distinguished members of the ITServe National Team attended, including Suresh Potluri (Secretary), Vijay Kommineni (Director – Chapter Relations), Prasad Arikatla (Director – Membership), Sharad Patney (Director – Speakers), Ravi Satya Gavirineni (Chicago Chapter President), Babu Gurram (Chair – Board Coordinator & Contracts, Associate Director for Synergy 2025), Suresh Kandala (Chair – Chapter Relations, Associate Director for Synergy 2025), Srinivas Vemula (Chair – Membership Renewals), Satya Balla, and past National President Shashidhar Devireddy.
A major highlight was the chapter’s $4,000 donation to the San Diego Indian American Society, facilitated by CSR Director Latha Sundar and Treasurer Chandra Matha. The quick approval process, thanks to the CSR national team and Tanuj, drew praise for its efficiency and positive attention within the local Indian American community.
In his presidential address, Vallabhaneni reflected on the organization’s growth, member benefits, and the success of the event, which featured compelling startup pitches and motivational speakers. “Hope with these initiatives, the chapter will grow beyond 50 active members!” he remarked, encouraging further engagement and expansion.
Moopanar echoed these sentiments, commending Yalla and the LA team for their dedication and successful coordination. “Regrouping the chapter is never an easy task, and you pulled it together wonderfully. Kudos to Madhu and the team — it was a refreshing and unique experience,” he said.
The event also welcomed Dr. Srinivasa KJ, Consul General of India in Los Angeles, who emphasized the significant contributions of ITServe’s 2,000 member companies to the U.S.-India business relationship, citing $20 billion in revenue and robust job creation. Dr. Srinivasa lauded the Indian diaspora for their innovation, entrepreneurship, and community service, calling them “model citizens” and affirming the importance of small and medium enterprises in economic development and community building.
California State Assemblywoman Dr. Darshana Patel delivered a heartfelt address, sharing her family’s journey of resilience and entrepreneurship. Drawing parallels with the values of ITServe Alliance members, she highlighted the importance of positive role models and community service. Dr. Patel also outlined her legislative priorities, including increased district funding, fire safety, and support for women in leadership.
Renowned motivational speaker and TiE Southern California Executive Director Ruchi Lamba inspired attendees with stories of overcoming adversity. Lamba stressed the importance of courage, creativity, and community, drawing from her experiences as a mother, entrepreneur, and leader. “Lead with your heart and have a mindset that’s constantly about courage, creativity, and community,” she urged, encouraging members to see opportunity in every challenge.
Industry innovation took center stage as Greg Geier, veteran studio executive from Sony Pictures Entertainment, discussed the transformative role of artificial intelligence in Hollywood’s digital supply chain. Geier outlined the shift to digital workflows and the critical role of metadata, detailing how AI has optimized content management and ensured long-term accessibility. He encouraged adaptability and a commitment to technological advancement to thrive in the entertainment sector.
Emerging entrepreneurs also had their moment. Durai, representing EV2 Deep Tech Anonymous ATV Bikes, delivered a compelling pitch for his innovative ATV bike startup, seeking funding and recognition. The JenEd team—Michael Altman, Lee Altman, and Jeenifer Ramirez—presented their edtech venture, focused on leveraging technology to enhance education for local and national communities.
The meeting offered valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and community building, with members, sponsors, and guests uniting to make a positive impact. In closing, Madhu Yalla thanked the core members and National Team for their ongoing enthusiasm: “Thank you to ITServe for generating excitement and motivating members throughout Southern California.”