My heartfelt gratitude to this wonderful country America, which I proudly call my home. I am Anil Patel, I began my journey in Johannesburg, South Africa, I was born on July 3rd, 1956. My grandfather, Mr. Ranchhodbhai Naran Bhai Patel, made a profound statement to my family about my potential to fulfill my dreams. I then moved to India, where I lived with my grandmother, who was a remarkable figure managing a household with six children and three grandchildren. I had the privilege of being her favorite. She was a multitasker, managing household chores, farming, and helping others.
My educational journey started in my village, Satem, Gujarat. I continued my schooling at Shree G.R. Vidya Mandir and completed high school in my village, a cherished time where my grandmother was actively involved in my life and activities.
In 1975, due to passport renewal requirements, I traveled back to South Africa, where my father convinced me to relocate to America. I arrived in the US by accident, not knowing much about this country, at John F. Kennedy Airport, in May 1976. My uncle, who had been residing in the US since 1966, helped us obtain a green card upon arrival. This marked the beginning of my journey in the US, starting with learning to drive, mastering English, and working various jobs, including teaching for students in Jackson, Mississippi.
The turning point came when I met John L. Davis, a manager at Independent Life and Accident Insurance Company. He saw potential in me beyond my printing job and encouraged me to join the company. Taking his advice seriously, I began my journey in the insurance sector, which was a game-changer. Simultaneously, I pursued a BS in Management at Jackson State University while living with my knowledgeable and Sanskrit scholar father, Mr. Rambhai Ranchhod.
My family’s move to Long Beach, California, led me to explore new opportunities. I joined New York Life through Mr. Richard Alan Wecker in 1981. A chance encounter with a potential partner arranged by my aunt from Lusaka, Zambia, resulted in a swift marriage. Coincidentally, we recently celebrated our 42nd wedding anniversary among the top 300 insurance agents from 45 different countries in Naples, Florida.
I now live with my family, including my loving wife Bharti, son Hemal and our beloved Rottweiler, Nili Patel. We’ve had many enriching experiences in this country. Engaging in hiking, conquering terrains like Half Dome in California, Machu Picchu in Peru, Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, and attempting Kilimanjaro in Tanzania are among our adventurous endeavors.
Moreover, our travels to over 40 countries have been incredibly fulfilling. We’ve also contributed to philanthropic endeavors in the US & in India, supporting students in rural areas with sports equipment and musical instruments, as well as helping build homes for families.
Contributions closer to home have included donations to local schools and participation in events like the March of Dimes walkathon, where we covered 20 miles with my father.
The United States has provided a platform where dreams can be pursued and realized. I am deeply grateful for the support and opportunities I’ve received in the last 47 years. America’s essence lies in its ability to empower people to achieve their dreams, and I am a testament to that.
Thank you, America, for the opportunities and the people who have been part of my journey. I aim to continue leaving a positive legacy for future generations through hard work and appreciation for this beautiful country.
Warm regards,
Anil Patel
Anil Insurance
Also Read: Mr. Anil Patel achieves prestigious ‘Top of the Table’ MDRT qualification