Member Spotlight: Meet Alice Uttam
Learn more about Alice Uttam and how St. George’s helped grow her personal network when she moved to the U.S.
How did you come to learn about St. George’s Society of NY?
When I first moved to NYC in summer 2016, an acquaintance working at the British Consulate told me that she was a member of a charitable organization with British roots called SGSNY. She said it would be a good way for me to meet new people (including fellow expats) while doing good in the community. I’ve been a member – and occasional volunteer - ever since!
What is your favorite part of being a SGSNY member?
Having the chance to meet so many people of diverse backgrounds who share my heritage or have an interest in British culture, while simultaneously supporting SGSNY’s charitable mission of helping New Yorkers in need. A highlight this year was our family joining the Central Park picnic to celebrate King Charles’ birthday, alongside patriotic Brits and Anglophiles from the US and beyond. Another favorite event of mine – which draws a different group - is the volunteer holiday gift wrapping for SGSNY’s Beneficiaries; it’s always a lovely time to create gifts together, while enjoying hot drinks and Santa hats!
How has being a part of SGSNY helped you as a new New Yorker (personally and/or professionally)?
SGSNY is a caring community of people and membership has helped me in both these ways. Personally, I have definitely expanded my social network; I have no family here and didn’t know many people when I moved, so I’ve really appreciated getting to know other British expats in similar positions. (Who else could provide essential tips such as where to buy mince pies/scones etc?!). As well as meeting many Americans and people from other parts of the globe, who all share Commonwealth heritage or an interest in British culture. Personally and professionally, I’ve found SGSNY’s previous webinars with experts on ‘life’ subjects such as tax and immigration extremely helpful for shedding light on information I wasn’t aware of (or was still on my to-do list to research). Also professionally, the SGSNY team is always happy to facilitate introductions/provide advice wherever they can help a member. I will be returning to the workforce soon - after having taken time off to look after our young child - and it’s comforting to know that if I ask for support, someone within the SGSNY team or network is bound to offer help.
What is your favorite place in NYC? Favorite food or meal you’ve had since you’ve been here?
Gosh, there are so many great eateries in the city it’s hard to choose! Over the summer, my husband and I had a lovely evening at The Frying Pan, a moored ship on the Hudson by W 26th St that’s now a vibrant bar and restaurant. I’m not a foodie, so ambience is almost as important as what I’m eating; we had the casual bar food, though there’s a fancier restaurant on the ‘upper deck’; and either way, it’s a beautiful spot to eat/have drinks outdoors and enjoy the sunset.
Now the weather has turned, we’ve discovered Joanne, a cosy, family-run Italian on the UWS. Delicious large portions of pasta, live music on Saturdays and other acts during the week (as you might expect, being owned by Lady Gaga’s parents). It was voted a winner with our 4 year old too!