Seema Singh

Seema multi-tasks in this lilac chiffon sari with a tone-on-tone sequined border and rhinestone accents on the palloo. Sari Sapne’s Sapna Boutique. Houston, 713.783.1480 or email Sarisapne@aol.com.

The Attorney: Seema Singh

For those who don’t recognize the name Seema Singh, she is the South Asian attorney that is very politically involved in the state of New Jersey. Seema has done the unthinkable and has set a path for not just South Asian women to follow, but also Asians and minorities from all different backgrounds.

In recent times, Seema was busy campaigning for a position in the state senate. Although she didn’t win the race, her career path and achievements have made her a role model within the NJ Asian community.

“I cannot shy away from politics because I am a woman or an ethnic woman,” says Seema. “It’s important to show involvement and support for the community.

When asked why Seema chose to get into politics, she says, “I didn’t really get involved. It was more of a ‘being in the right

place at the right time’ situation. It wasn’t something I planned, it was serendipity.”

Seema attended college at Calcutta University in India. From there, she moved on to Rutgers University, NJ, and earned a Bachelor of Science with high honors. Finally, she attended Seton Hall School of Law, and earned her Juris Doctor.

Since then, Seema has become a regular voice in the state of New Jersey. She has served as Founding Member of both the Rotary International Club of Plainsboro and the Hindu International Council Against Defamation. She launched Asian Women’s Safety Net to aid Asian victims of domestic violence, and she is a member of the National Women's Political Caucus and the Center for American Women in Politics. Currently, Seema is the President of the Asian Indian Chamber of Commerce, NJ, and New Jersey's current Ratepayer Advocate.

In this state position, Seema’s main push has been to urge utility companies to control their rates and move to clean and renewable energy sources. She also successfully fought a utility company merger, which would have left a number of families with unaffordable energy and heating bills. Seema holds a lot on her plate, but in the end, she knows that dedicating her life to public service is worth it.

“It’s the feeling of making that difference, and it’s fulfilling. It’s knowing that I can make a difference in a person’s life and in the community as a whole,” says Seema.

Seema feels that more and more people, especially women and minorities, should get involved in their communities through politics. Seema advises, “I urge people, particularly women, to explore different ways they can run for office or get involved in some sort of a political environment.” She adds, “Don’t hold any fears, and don’t worry about what the end consequence may be. All that matters is making a voice for your community.”

Seema remains an inspiration to others around her particularly because of this ‘can-do’ attitude. She is the example of someone who is making a difference in the community one leap at a time.