Breaking the Silence
Breaking the Silence is a show written and produced by South Asian Americans for Change, which dives deep into storytelling on stigmatized topics in the South Asian diaspora – like mental health.
Breaking the Silence Part One Featuring Comedian Nimesh Patel
Part 1 features an in-depth conversation about therapy and mental health with Emmy nominated comedian Nimesh Patel and host, SAAFC Co-founder and creator of the series, Sumit Shukla. Nimesh and Sumit (who are first cousins) are also joined by Ankur Varma (licensed psychotherapist), Yash Hatkar (storyteller and suicide survivor) and Krishna Akubathini (SAAFC board member).
Breaking the Silence Part Two Featuring Ankur Varma Licensed Psychotherapist
Part 2 features an in-depth conversation with Sumit Shukla (SAAFC Co-founder and creator of the series) and Ankur Varma (licensed psychotherapist and founder of @BrownManTherapy), where they delve into Ankur’s journey to becoming a therapist and discuss the key intersections of being male, South Asian, and mental health. Continuing the conversation as a large group, this part also includes Nimesh Patel (Emmy-nominated comedian), Yash Hatkar (storyteller and suicide survivor), and Krishna Akubathini (SAAFC board member).
Breaking the Silence Part Three Featuring Yash Hatkar, Suicide Survivor and Storyteller
Part 3 features an insightful dialogue between Yash Hatkar (storyteller and suicide survivor) and Sumit Shukla (SAAFC Co-founder). Yash and Sumit engage in a deep exploration of Yash’s personal journey and experiences, discussing mental health challenges and the road to recovery. Continuing with the group discussions, Part 3 includes prior participants: Ankur Varma (licensed psychotherapist and founder of @BrownManTherapy), Nimesh Patel (Emmy-nominated comedian), and Krishna Akubathini (SAAFC board member).