Our Extraordinary Man

"When I first started the program, I was afraid to take big risks, but that's no longer the case."  

- Rahul Bafna

If you need more proof that the Multicultural Leadership Program is paving the way for community leaders, look no further. MCLP alum Rahul Bafna was one of the five recipients of the Extraordinary/Ordinary Man of the Year Award. The award recognizes a handful of men for their efforts to improve the community. It's no question that Bafna is deserving of such an award. However his experiences in MCLP has giving him the boost that he needed.

In his own eyes, the Multicultural Leadership Program has helped Bafna develop not only as an individual and a professional, but more importantly, as a community leader. Aside from his work at State Farm, Bafna volunteers with Home Sweet Home Ministries and Westminster Village. Since graduating from MCLP in 2011, Bafna has taken on other community initiatives. He is a proud member of the Salvation Army Board and is an Advisory Board Member of the Bloomington Normal Aviation Scholar Chess Club. Bafna acknowledges the hard work and commitment it takes to be so active in the community.

He attributes much of his recent success to MCLP. "I learned how to use my courage and take risks. I had courage before but I learned how to use it the right way in order to influence people," said Bafna.

And influencing people is exactly what Bafna is doing. In the year prior to graduating from MCLP, he and  his wife collect 20 backpacks to help deserving children. After graduating from MCLP, he had the courage to dream bigger and to act on his dreams. He collaborated with community organization this year and has collected more than 200 back packs.

Bafna says he will always feel part of MCLP. He continues to play an active role in MCLP and hopes others will follow in his footsteps.

"This is definitely very good program, it will give you all the right leadership skills but you have to be committed to it also. It's not just going to happen by itself. What you put in is what you get out."