By: Seraphina Quinn
Sheetal Ohri has always been driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, particularly for immigrant parents facing challenging circumstances. Her recent recognition at the International IMPACT Book Awards for her book Custodial Battle reflects this commitment to advocacy. The award, given in the Inspirational and Motivational category, is particularly noteworthy considering the competitive nature of the selection process. Out of 80 submissions in this category, only seven were honored, making Sheetal’s achievement even more significant. This accolade highlights the importance of her work and amplifies its reach to a broader audience.
Custodial Battle is not just a book; it is an account born out of personal experience. As an immigrant mother in the United States, Sheetal faced numerous challenges, especially when she had to fight for her son’s custody in the American court system. This experience was fraught with difficulties, and the biases she encountered led her to document her journey. The book provides a detailed account of the emotional and legal struggles she faced, offering guidance and support to other immigrant parents who might find themselves in similar predicaments. Winning the International IMPACT Book Award has brought greater visibility to her work, encouraging more people to engage with the critical issues she addresses.
The International IMPACT Book Awards award ceremony will be held in February 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. This event will celebrate the achievements of authors whose works have profoundly impacted their respective categories. For Sheetal, this recognition is a significant milestone in her career, underscoring the value of her contributions to literature and social advocacy.
Beyond her achievements as an author, Sheetal is also an accomplished entrepreneur and California Realtor. She founded Sheetal Ohri Inc, through which she has built a successful career in real estate and hospitality, areas in which she has been involved for many years. Her company has gained recognition for its contributions to these industries, earning numerous accolades along the way. Balancing these professional responsibilities with her role as a mother and an advocate for immigrant rights has been challenging, yet Sheetal has consistently demonstrated resilience and dedication. Her ability to navigate these different aspects of her life with poise is a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment to making a difference.
Photo Courtesy: Ava Claire
The International IMPACT Book Award has added another layer of credibility to Sheetal’s work. This recognition is a personal achievement and a milestone for the immigrant community she represents. Her book, Custodial Battle, has been a source of comfort and information for many, and this award highlights the broader relevance of her work. It serves as a reminder that the struggles faced by immigrant parents in the United States are real and that their stories deserve to be told and acknowledged.
Sheetal’s approach to her career and writing is deeply rooted in her personal experiences. She understands the importance of having a support system and the challenges of navigating complex systems, whether they be legal, professional, or social. This understanding has informed her work, making it impactful and relatable to those facing similar circumstances. Her success in the real estate and hospitality industries, coupled with her achievements as an author, reflects a well-rounded individual who is committed to excellence in all areas of her life.
The recognition of her book by the International IMPACT Book Awards has also opened up new opportunities for Sheetal. There is ongoing interest in adapting her story into a film, a project that would bring her work to an even wider audience. This potential development speaks to the universal themes of her book—resilience, justice, and the fight for what is right—making it a story that resonates beyond the immigrant community. Sheetal’s journey from the courtroom to the awards stage illustrates the power of perseverance and the impact one person’s story can have on others.
As Sheetal continues to build on her success, her focus remains on creating positive change. Whether through her work as a realtor, her entrepreneurial ventures, or her writing, she is driven by a desire to help others and to advocate for those who may not have a voice. The International IMPACT Book Award is a recognition of her efforts but also a reminder that there is still much work to be done. Sheetal’s story is one of courage and commitment, and her achievements serve as an inspiration to others who are striving to make a difference in their own lives and communities.
Published by: Khy Talara
