Atlanta, GA: Atlanta based Data point systems Inc. owned by an Indian American was selected for the prestigious Georgia Minority Business Technology Industry Award at the 12th annual Awards dinner and conference organized by the Atlanta Business Journal magazine. Dr. Paddy Sharma, President & CEO of Data point, received the award amidst thunderous applause at a fully packed dinner conference in the august presence of leading business owners and other eminent dignitaries of Atlanta on February 19, 2009 at Georgia International Convention Center, College Park. Curtis J. Matin, Partner, Mozley, Finlayson, & Loggins, LLP presented the award to Dr. Paddy.

The Georgia Minority Business Awards embraces all people regardless of their ethnicity, races and culture. The 12th Annual Georgia Minority business Awards is instituted recognize and reward the achievement of Georgia based Minority businesses. The Georgia Minority Business Awards (GMBA) Technology Industry Award presented to Dr. Paddy Sharma this year was in recognition of her accomplishments as head of a small business. Belonging to a multi cultural/minority background, Dr Paddy Sharma had achieved successful business growth and represents the technology of the future. Dr. Paddy Sharma is the founder and CEO of Atlanta based Data point Systems, INC. , a full service IT staffing firm that specializes in staff augmentation, software development and software training. Data Point systems serves medium to large corporations through out the USA.

Dr. Paddy is well known in business as well as social circles in Atlanta. She is very active in the community and holds many key positions. She is the current chairman of board of directors of IACA (India America Cultural

Association), an umbrella organization of Indian community here. She is also a trustee Clayton State University Foundation, trustee of Sanatan Mandir, Chairman of fund raising committee of Hindu Temple of Atlanta, Riverdale, president of Global Teachers, Research & Resources Inc. (GTRR) and serves on the Emory Board of Visitors. Dr. Paddy Sharma received many awards from community organizations for her commitment and dedicated service to the community. Dr. Paddy Sharma also received an ‘Outstanding Georgia Citizen’ proclamation presented by the Secretary of state of Georgia on 5th day Feb, 2009. The citation on the proclamation reads “Karen C. Handel, secretary of Georgia State proclaimed Dr. Paddy Sharma as an outstanding Georgia citizen.

May this outstanding citizen be afforded every courtesy as a good will ambassador from Georgia in her travels to other states, to nations beyond the borders of the United States of America, or where ever she may here after travels or reside”. Secretary, Georgia state signed on 5th day of February, A. D. 2009. It brings Atlanta Indian community a great honor and pride.

The Georgia Minority Business Awards are now 12 years old and is acknowledged as one of the most prestigious annual award given to those CEOs and businesses that made outstanding contributions in developing and promoting diversity in businesses especially minority businesses.  

This event is designed to provide an excellent opportunity for local, national, and international businesses to network and develop business relationships. It is the melting pot for a diverse group of people, races, and cultures. The awards program recognizes a wide range of businesses and business leaders that exemplify leadership, commitment and professional growth, have a major impact on business and have demonstrated diversity in the workplace.

Businesses will immensely benefit from attending this prestigious event as it presents the rare opportunity to connect with chamber members, CEO’s, non-profit organizations, political leaders and organizations from various industries all in one evening.

Prior to the award’s dinner presentation, a reception was held in honor of the awardees. Lockheed Martin, Bank of North Georgia, Sam’s Club, 1st Choice Credit Union, Wachovia/Wells Fargo Bank, Comcast, Holiday Inn Select and the law firm of Mozley, Finlayson & Loggins cosponsored the 2009 Georgia Minority business Awards.