The 'Stories: Our American Journey' tour during the Diamond Jubilee was a tribute to our Jamat's resilience and shared experiences. It highlighted the collective narrative of our community's journey to and since arriving in America. Adding to the growing community’s story, we mark the historical contributions of our Afghan and Tajik families and their arrival in Texas.
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Cultivating diversity and inclusion, Roz-e-Khanawada saw over 200 Jamati members from Afghanistan and Tajikistan come together at the Houston Headquarters Jamatkhana. They arrived hoping to seek new connections, collaboration, and a renewed sense of community. The event was attended by distinguished representatives of various Ismaili institutions, including the Community Building Portfolio, Financial Services, Wills Clinic, Aga Khan Economic Planning Board, and the Ismaili Volunteers team.
Three immersive subject matter experts led sessions, along with a meet-and-greet with Jamati leaders, and a Kid’s Zone with games and prizes for young children. With a holistic view, there were sessions on social, economic, and culture. Moderators Ali and Nazish Dhukka Qazi highlighted the importance of childhood educational foundations. Concurrently, Amina Razak provided ACCESS insights, while Rozmin Merchant shared resources available to aging seniors.
Explaining the vision of this event, Imran Bandeali, the Southwest Council’s Hon. Secretary said:
“The meet-and-greet provides a platform for us to share and for the Jamat to actively participate in an insightful session tailored to address their specific challenges. These sessions were about offering exposure to all the programs and services available under the Ismaili Council umbrella. We hope this will act as a catalyst to improve the quality of life of our immigrant Jamat here in the United States and their families in countries like Afghanistan and Tajikistan.”
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After the sessions, inspired guests expressed gratitude for the information provided and also requested more opportunities to gain assistance through the ACCESS desk. To stay current, they also explored various booths and seized the option to subscribe to weekly newsletters, the Ismaili Insight app, and regional events at the institutional communications corner.
An audience poll was conducted in which interviewed attendee Hafiza Bakshi said:
“I would like to say Ya Ali Madad to all the Jamat, and I am thankful for today's session. I have learned a lot, such as about living in the US, information on good school qualities for our kids, driving in the US, and on how to start our businesses. Thank you.”
Change is an inevitable constant, and as the Jamat transitions, we continue to gain strength from our challenges and successes. It inspires us to move forward as a resilient, united community with optimism.
