Our Story
After moving to the greater Sacramento area, I struggled to find a South Asian community where I truly felt I belonged. Even in group settings, conversations stayed surface-level, and real connection felt out of reach.
As I met others, a shared truth became clear: we were all searching for spaces where culture could be explored without being explained, and where conversation could go beyond the surface.
That experience led me to curate gatherings built around shared interests—rooted in a love of bringing people together and a belief that community grows through meaningful conversation and shared experiences. At the heart of & Gupshup is my desire to create intentional, inclusive spaces where relationships can grow and community can take root.
OUR Approach
It’s all about curating spaces that promote connection.
MISSION
& Gupshup exists to bring South Asians together through curated activities and experiences that spark connection, joy, and meaningful belonging.
VISION
To cultivate a lasting sense of connection and belonging within the South Asian community through shared experiences and meaningful relationships.
Aysha founded & Gupshup with a simple intention: to create the kinds of spaces she had been searching for herself—places where connection feels meaningful, shared experiences bring people together, and community can grow over time.
Inspired by her own journey of finding belonging, Aysha approaches each gathering with care and thoughtfulness, designing experiences that center conversation, shared interests, and inclusivity. Through & Gupshup, she continues to shape spaces where people can show up as they are, build relationships, and feel part of something larger than themselves.
Meet our founder
Aysha Bilal
Founder
Aysha brings a love of gathering people together and a thoughtful, intentional approach to creating spaces where conversation, connection, and community can grow.