Alka Bhargav

Alka Bhargav

Founder

Aum Foundation

Alka Bhargav is a social entrepreneur and servant leader, and a lifelong advocate of women’s empowerment. She holds a BS in Biology and Chemistry, an MBA, and an MA in Communication. Drawing from her immigrant journey and personal experiences, she advances economic independence and opportunity for women and youth. As founder of the Aum Foundation, she champions education, mentorship, and community impact, inspiring collective action and creating pathways for underserved communities to thrive.

What circumstances or people helped shape you in your career?

My immigrant experience and my divorce were pivotal life events that shaped my path. They helped me understand just how vulnerable women can be without economic independence. Becoming instantly under-resourced as a single mom changed my perspective on life in a profound way – you truly only understand when you’ve walked in someone else’s shoes. As an immigrant, I also had little awareness of the resources available to me.

Another defining moment came in childhood, when I stood up to a powerful bully to protect my mother. That experience helped me find my voice—a voice that continues to guide my work today.

Finally, I attribute much of what I have been able to accomplish to my earliest mentor, my mother and later my husband, Raj Khanijow. This story is not complete, without mentioning the many women, who saw the need and sacrificed their time and other resources to lift up our young women. A shout out to the girls themselves who so intensely invest in themselves and take advantage of the resources offered to them through Aum.

What organizations or nonprofits have you been involved with?

Over the past 26 years, I have had the privilege of serving on boards such as the WEDC Foundation, New Futures, Huntsville Madison County Chamber of Commerce, Madison City Disability Advocacy Board, Drake State Community & Technical College Advisory Board, North Alabama Society of Human Resource Management, Women’s Business Council, and of course the Aum Foundation. Each experience has been meaningful in different ways—whether advancing professional development, supporting women, addressing homelessness, or advocating for individuals with disabilities.

 

What awards, accolades, or accomplishments are you proudest of?

Growing the Aum Foundation and expanding its reach across multiple cities has been one of my proudest accomplishments. Seeing the ripple effect of our work is truly indescribable.

In addition to Aum, one of my proudest accomplishments was starting Camp Bharat—a camp for Indian children, or any child interested in Indian culture. It created a sense of belonging, helped kids take pride in their roots, and built lasting connections.

The awards I’ve received have all been meaningful – not just personally, but because they shine a light on Aum’s mission. That visibility is critical in helping the organization grow and serve more communities.

Awards: Women Foundation of Alabama Change Maker Award; WEDC Women Honoring Women Honoree, Alabama Women’s Commission Impact award; Women Who Shape Alabama, Woman of the Year – Psi Beta Zeta, Madison Chamber of Commerce Non-profit of the Year.

Do you have a favorite inspiring quote?

You don’t need permission to be empowered. You are empowered.