HOUSTON — The inaugural three-day Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) convention, held under the auspices of the Mayor's Advisory Council, has concluded.
The event marked a historic moment for Houston as prominent Pakistani-American businessman Javed Anwar received the AAPI Legacy Award for his exceptional service to the White House and the Presidential Advisory Commission.
The convention, organized by the Houston Mayor's AAPI Advisory Council, attracted distinguished guests including Houston Mayor John Wittmeyer, Congressman Al Green, and renowned Pakistani-American business leaders Javed Anwar and Saeed Sheikh, president of the Houston-Karachi Sister Cities Association.
The first day featured a networking event that attracted a large crowd from the Asian community. Chris Olsen, Director of the Mayor's Office, welcomed attendees on behalf of Mayor Wittmeyer. Pakistan's Consul General Aftab Chaudhary and other prominent Asian leaders attended the event.
Edward, director of the South West District Management, praised the convention as an excellent platform to unite the Asian community. The event featured cultural dances from various Asian countries, which added to the festivities.
The congressman, who was the guest of honor at the opening ceremony, acknowledged the important role that the Asian community has played in the development of the United States, highlighting the importance of the convention in uniting the community.
The convention featured booths highlighting Asian cultures, including Pakistani apparel and artwork courtesy of the Pakistani Consulate. On the final day, a colorful Unity Gala featured Mayor Wittmeyer, who hailed the convention as a historic moment and recognized the success of Asian Americans in various fields.
Legacy Award recipient Javed Anwar expressed his pride and highlighted the importance of the convention for Asian Americans who contribute to the development of the United States. Other prominent individuals from various Asian communities received awards for their achievements.
Saeed Shaikh, chair of the API Advisory Council Convention Committee, called the participation of hundreds of Asian Americans a remarkable achievement, demonstrating the community's value to America's development. Noomi Hussain, chair of the API Advisory Council, attributed the convention's success to the unity of Asian countries, while Texas Assemblyman Sulaiman Lalani called it a symbol of the strength of Asian unity.
The historic AAPI Convention concluded with a memorable Unity Gala ceremony, leaving a lasting impact on the Asian community.
