NAVA Hosts Its 18th Annual Gala in New York on June 19, 2025: World’s Fair Marina, Queens, New York, USA
Progga News Desk, NY, USA:
The New American Voters Association (NAVA) celebrated its 18th Annual Dinner and Dance Gala on June 19, 2025, at the World’s Fair Marina in Queens, New York. The evening brought together a distinguished group of elected officials, community leaders, advocates, and professionals from across New York to honor civic engagement, leadership, and community service.
The program began with Taiba, Gary, and Lara welcoming the guests to the stage. Taiba introduced NAVA and its mission, while Gary extended heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors who made the event possible. Sponsors included: NYCDocs, Ali Najmi, Eve Cho Guillergan, Indira Khan, Dr. Dilip Nath, Nabaraj KC, Joel Grant, Moin Chowdhury, Esq., Lara Gregory, Gehi & Associates, Wong Family, Sheridan Chu, Dr. Dhanonjoy Saha , Subal C. Debnath, Kingsland Properties, Golden Age Home Care, Uni Energy, Magic Mike DJs, PG Group, Fakrul Islam Delwar, Dr. Mita Chowdhury, Indrojit Sarker , Queens Forward Democratic Club, Lamp Shades NY, Fauma Innovative Inc., Dyal Consulting Group, Shoraf SSNT Realty, Somath Ghosh, Mizan Choudhury, Sound of Music hosted by Jas Persaud, Dr. Massadul Hassan, Bengali International Literary Society, Shanai Restaurant & Party Hall, Indrojit Sarker, Deepak Das & Family, Jaydeb Gain, and the Building Trades Employers’ Association, Jeany Persaud- Director, community organization.
Lara Gregory then introduced the emcees for the evening, Rhonda Binda and Rasmika Chakraborty, who brought energy and warmth to the stage with their introductions.
The formal program began with a performance by the John Bowne High School Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard, followed by the national anthem sung by Katherina “Kat” Thompson. A moving tribute in honor of Juneteenth was performed by Victory Music & Dance Company Inc., titled “The Joy of Dance.” The emcees thanked Nicole Williams and the performers for their contribution.
A citation from State Senator Leroy Comrie was presented by Dr. Dilip Nath, followed by a welcome address from Dr. Hari Shukla, NAVA’s Chairman of the Board.
The awards segment recognized the contributions of community leaders and changemakers:
*Dilraj Batchu received his award from Elizabeth Crowley
*Hon. Donovan Richards received his award from Dipa Nath
*Melissa Sklarz was honored by Amar Dyal
*John Park received his award from Gary
*Sibu Nair received his award from Rokeya
*Leonie Haimson was honored by Taiba
*Ali Rashid received his award from Nabaraj KC
*BAPA (Bangladeshi American Public Affairs) received their award from Jeanie
The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Jumaane Williams, New York City Public Advocate, who spoke passionately about civic responsibility and empowerment. Dr. Dilip Nath then presented him with a commemorative plaque.
Following the keynote, the buffet dinner was opened. Elected officials including Senator John Liu, Senator Leroy Comrie, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, and Council Member David Wipzin offered brief remarks. Hersh Parekh introduced candidates for office, while Tandeep Singh presented a proclamation to Dr. Hari Shukla. Neel Tubetti presented a citation to Ponkaz and Shubroy.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Dilip Nath, President of NAVA, who acknowledged district leaders, judges, and other distinguished guests for their ongoing support. The night ended on a festive note with the opening of the dance floor, as the community celebrated another year of progress and partnership.
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