The new financial year marks the beginning of a new session, which means a new chair helming a post and promising a tenure of fresh ideas, approach and plans at ALFA Network. Divij Thard has succeeded Ritika Karnani as the new chair of ALFA. Calm in his approach, yet competitive at heart, he is interested in growth, creating meaningful community and leadership. t2 caught up with Divij on his plans and strategy as the chair in this session. Excerpts.

Congrats Divij, on the new position at ALFA. What does the title mean to you?

Thank you. For me, the title is less about position and more about responsibility. ALFA has always been a community built by its people, and I see this role as an opportunity to nurture that by creating spaces where members feel connected, inspired, and valued. It’s about building with intent and taking the community forward in a meaningful way.

You are succeeding Ritika Karnani. Is there any tip or suggestion that she has given you?

Ritika’s year was defined by thoughtfully curated, memorable experiences. One key takeaway for me is to make every event unique and truly experiential. Building on that, my focus this year is to go a step further in not just creating moments, but strengthening connection and involvement, so ALFA becomes something you truly feel a part of.

What does the year look like in terms of long-term and short-term plans?

In the short term, we’ve already introduced the ALFA App, envisioned as a dynamic member platform that brings together insights into each member’s interests, backgrounds, and professional journeys. It allows members to understand each other better and makes interactions more natural-especially during events and orientations, so everyone feels included from the start.

We’re also launching the ALFA League, where participation translates into points, with a transparent scoreboard integrated into the app. It’s a simple yet engaging way to encourage members to show up, stay involved, and be part of the community more actively.

Another new initiative this year is monthly Zodiac Circles — curated, smaller group meet-ups designed to foster deeper, more personal connections among members.

At a broader level, everything this year is centred around YOU — you as an individual, as a leader, and as part of the larger community we’re building. While we will continue to host experiences and events, the focus is on making them more meaningful, inclusive, and member-led.

Over the years, so many events have taken place, but is there any area that you feel is untouched or can be improved?

ALFA has always done a great job with events, especially in bringing in eminent speakers from across industries. But I do feel there’s an opportunity to go deeper.

At its core, ALFA is a community of entrepreneurs and leaders in our own right. This year, we wanted to shift the lens, not just hear from voices outside the network but also celebrate and learn from the voices within. That’s where the idea of the podcast ALFA Archives came in. It’s a way to spotlight our members, their journeys, what they’ve built, and the perspectives they bring. It not only creates recognition but also gives members a platform to share, inspire, and grow together as a community.

Last year’s theme was SEE. What is the subject this year?

This year, the theme is YOU. It’s about bringing the focus back to the individual-your journey, your growth, and your experience within ALFA. Everything we do this year is designed keeping the member at the centre.

Take us through some of the most exciting events and sessions lined up this year.

We’re kicking off the year with Behind the Frames featuring Zoya Akhtar, an eminent filmmaker whose stories have a way of reflecting parts of our own lives.

In the midst of the election buzz, we move into Decoding Indian Politics with Raghav Chadha bringing a sharp, insider perspective to conversations that matter right now.

Then comes our much-awaited Social of the Year: The Berlin Underground Edit, a high-energy, immersive experience designed to bring the community together like never before.

And that’s just the beginning. Through the year, we’ll be hosting a diverse line-up of speakers from the worlds of sports, entrepreneurship, and beyond each bringing fresh perspectives, real stories, and conversations that stay with you.

Of course, building and leading a community like ALFA is never a one-man show. It’s the collective effort of the committee, and I’m fortunate to have the support of an incredible team this year.

Together, we’re looking forward to creating an energetic and engaging year for everyone.