A B O U T S N E H A M E R C H A N T
Sneha Merchant was born and raised in Mumbai, India in a family and community that believed that giving of one’s self, through time, material or intellectual ability for the relief of hardship, pain or ignorance can shape the social conscience and improve the human condition. Sneha’s mother was a paradigm of this belief – volunteering, donating and raising money to help those less privileged lead a better life. Through her mother’s charitable work, the seeds of philanthropy were planted in Sneha and she believes that philanthropy is the ultimate luxury.
Sneha is a champion and a lifer for Operation Smile, co-chairing the annual Houston Gala, since 2015, and has raised more than $ 2.5 million, for the charity.
EDUCATION:
Sneha holds a bachelors degree in Interactive Media design from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Los Angeles California and an Associates Graphic Design degree rom the Art Institute of Houston.
PASSION:
Sneha has been passionate about art and design, S N E H A M E R C H A N T A R T combines her passion for acrylics and graphic design creating unique masterpieces!
ART SHOWS:
2023, Exhibit May 2023, The Other Art Show, Dallas TX
2024, The United States Ismaili Arts Festival, Jan 2024, GRB Houston TX
2024, Solo Show - Dec 7th to Dec 15th 2024, RIVER OAKS DISTRICT, Houston TX
2025, Solo Show- TBD - Neiman Marcus, Houston TX
PHILANTHROPY:
Sneha has been bestowed with numerous honors and recognitions including:
2024, Women of Substance Honoree, from Houston ReVision
2023, Neiman Marcus Best Dressed Honoree, 2nd time, from March of Dimes
2019, Women of Distinction, by the Crohn’s & Coliti’s Foundation
2017, Neiman Marcus Best Dressed Honoree, from March of Dimes
2017, 50 Most Influential Women of Houston, from The Woman’s Magazine
2016, Universal Smile Award for her and husband Naushir, from Operation Smile Houston for their continued support towards the organization and raising awareness for cleft lip/palate surgery in children in developing countries
2012, Star Award from the Asian/Pacific American Heritage Association
2011, Spirited Ambassador for the inaugural Luminary Award Campaign by the Asian
2011, American Family Services
Sneha has chaired many high-profile fundraisers for organisations like Operation Smile, Indian Film Festival of Houston, Founded the Gold Luncheon for St. Jude’s Children Hospital, Aga Khan Foundation Emissary Award Luncheon, APAHA, The Women's Home, Asian American Family Services, Asian Pacific American Heritage Association and many more
Sneha and her husband Nick are parents to 2 amazing children, Being a parent to has been the most rewarding experience of their life and she hopes and strives to keep her family on top of the list while being able to help and serve others and continue her passion for Art.
