India’s association community witnessed a landmark moment with the official launch of the Society of Association Executives (SAE) on October 25, 2025, at the Hilton, Embassy Manyata Business Park, Bengaluru. SAE marks the dawn of a transformative movement aimed at empowering associations, amplifying leadership, and fostering global collaboration across industries.
This groundbreaking initiative is the result of a strategic partnership between GConvene, led by Ms. Kalpana Uberoi, and international association management expert Mr. Gregg H. Talley. Together, they bring global best practices and strategic advisory expertise to strengthen India’s association ecosystem. Under their guidance, SAE will drive excellence, innovation, and professional growth for associations nationwide.
During the launch, Dr. Ramesh S. Bilimagga, President of SAE, emphasized the transformative power of associations in his address: “Strong associations don’t just serve industries—they reshape them. They don’t just support communities—they elevate them. And they don’t just strengthen nations—they define their future.”
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Ishwar Gilada, General Secretary, highlighted SAE’s mission as a bridge between India’s associations and the global community—fostering collaboration, advocacy, and innovation without borders. Mr. Gregg Talley noted, “The timing of SAE’s launch could not be more strategic. With over 10 million associations worldwide driving economic progress, India stands at the epicentre of this global movement.”
The launch also underscored the critical role of associations in shaping India’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. SAE will act as a unified platform promoting collaboration, knowledge exchange, and policy advocacy that enhances India’s position as a premier global convention destination.
A key highlight was the unveiling of SAE’s comprehensive digital ecosystem—a dynamic hub for learning, leadership development, and international connectivity. Ms. Uberoi shared that SAE’s alignment with the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), European Society of Association Executives (ESAE), and African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE) reflects India’s growing influence in global association leadership.
The SAE Promise encapsulates the organization’s vision:
“When associations grow stronger, entire ecosystems transform. Industries become more innovative. Communities become more resilient. Nations become more competitive.”
As India’s premier professional body representing associations across sectors, SAE—‘The Association of Associations’— aims to foster a globally connected community of leaders shaping an inclusive, innovative, and empowered future for India and the world.
