Get Ready to Make Memories: KOA Youth Heads to Nashville! 🎸
- Jan 26
- 3 min read
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure, forging new connections, and diving deep into the vibrant Kashmiri Pandit community? We are thrilled to announce that this year, KOA Youth will be heading South to Nashville, TN for our annual youth trip from May 22-25, 2026! Get ready for a weekend packed with immersing yourselves in Nashville's unique culture while making new, lasting connections with fellow Kashmiri Pandits aged 18-30 from across the United States.
The Enduring "Why": A Journey of Connection and Culture
The KOA Youth Trips were created with a simple yet profound goal: to bring Kashmiri Pandit youth from across the United States together. These trips provide a unique opportunity to connect with others in their community whom they may not otherwise have the chance to meet. What began as a way to foster connection has blossomed into an annual weekend event that participants eagerly anticipate year after year.
Our trips offer the perfect balance of exploring a new and exciting city while building new friendships and strengthening the invaluable bonds formed within the KOAY community. Over the years, KOA Youth Trips have taken us to incredible places like New York City (2022), Chicago (2023), Washington, D.C. (2024), and San Diego (2025). Each destination has added its own flavor to our collective memories, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences.
Building Bonds and Shaping Identity
For many, the trip is an essential annual reunion. As Isha Warikoo, an attendee at the previous four trips, shared: "I’ve met amazing people through the KOA community. And with everyone scattered across countries, busy with families, work and/or school it’s rare to have so many of us in one place at one time. These trips have been the best way to remain connected and reunite with good friends."
Beyond reunion, the trips are vital for navigating identity as young adults. Isha elaborated, stating, "Being born and raised outside of Kashmir and India, my identity as a Kashmiri is very different than the ones my parents and grandparents have. However, through KOAY I’ve met people who share similar backgrounds, stories and experiences to my own. KOAY has fostered a Kashmiri community and sub-culture that has redefined what it means to be KP as young adults of today."
The consistency and quality of the experience also keep participants returning. "Youth trip is something that I look forward to every year because of how it’s impacted me and the connections I’ve made through the KP community!" said Ayush Kotru. "Having grown up without other Kashmiri families nearby, I enjoy how each trip gives me the opportunity to meet new people and grow closer to my culture. I really like how well organized the trips are year after year and how much fun it’s been exploring a new city with friends.”
Your Chance to Connect: Don't Miss Nashville!
The consensus among our veterans is clear: these weekends are truly meaningful. Heeya Trisal, who has attended every trip since 2022, summarized the experience perfectly: “I keep coming back to the youth trips because they’re always such a meaningful experience. Each trip offers a unique opportunity to connect with other KP’s, make new friends, and grow closer to my culture. It’s a chance to build lasting friendships while also gaining a new perspective on what it means to be Kashmiri."
For anyone considering joining this year, Heeya offers simple advice: “Don’t hesitate! The trips are a space where you can truly be yourself, have fun, and leave with memories that last. You won't regret it!”
This year, in Nashville, we'll continue this incredible tradition. Expect a weekend filled with discovery, laughter, and the chance to deepen your connection to your heritage and community. Keep an eye out for registration details and get ready to pack your bags for the Music City!
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Registration will go live in February 2026. This post and the event link will be updated then.
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