Niyati Tamaskar

Niyati Tamaskar is a breast cancer survivor, she was diagnosed at the age of 34 while she was breastfeeding her second child. As an engineer, she realized that she was a statistical outlier as this occurs in only 3% of lactating women. As someone who grew up in India, Niyati came to realize the all too common truth that people with serious illness are often shunned and discussing a disease like cancer is frowned up. She chose not to be silent and challenged the cultural norm by talking about the “c-word” and writing a memoir about her journey. Niyati donates all proceeds of her book Unafraid: A survivor’s quest for human connection, to the American Cancer Society. Niyati was the key note speaker for TEDx Bloomington Perspective Shift event, where she spoke about Cultural bias and stigma associated with cancer. Niyati utilizes this platform to help young survivors and minority women facing a cancer diagnosis. She is passionate about helping women find their voice and takes pride in self-advocacy. Niyati has spent 18 years of her professional career developing electronic controls for a variety of machine applications and natural gas engines. Her passion for engineering extends to her work as regional leader of Center for Women in Technology (CWiT) North America. She promotes STEM education and strives to prioritize engineering careers among minorities. Niyati lives in the US with her husband and their two children.