The official inauguration of the 40th convention of the Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America has been held, marking the formal launch of its program.
The inauguration took place on Saturday (March 28) afternoon, local time, at the Hilton Hotel in Universal City, California. The event was formally opened by the chief guest, Consul General of Bangladesh in Los Angeles, Kazi Muhammad Jabed Iqbal.
Among those present were FOBANA Executive Committee Chairperson Rabiul Karim Belal, Executive Secretary Khaled Ahmed Rouf, Convener Dr. Zaynul Abedin, Member Secretary Engineer Mohammad Iqbal, and First Secretary of the Bangladesh Mission Arifa Afrin.
In his remarks, Consul General Kazi Muhammad Jabed Iqbal thanked FOBANA organizers for hosting the 40th convention in Los Angeles and urged Bangladeshi expatriates to actively participate in making the event a success.
At the inauguration ceremony, leaders of the host committee said that with the collective support of Bangladeshis at home and abroad, this year’s convention in Los Angeles could become the best in FOBANA’s history. They emphasized that such a large-scale diaspora event cannot be made successful by any single organization or individual, and requires the support of business leaders, community figures, and philanthropists both in Bangladesh and abroad.
Convener Dr. Zaynul Abedin, speaking at the event organized by the Bangladesh Association of California (BAC), said that setting aside differences and working together would ensure a historic convention. He added that the organizing team would review past shortcomings to deliver a better experience this year.
FOBANA Chairperson Rabiul Karim Belal noted that the current organizing committee has prior experience in hosting such conventions and expressed hope that this year’s event would be unique in presentation and organization. He also mentioned that strong subcommittees have already been formed to ensure success.
Executive Secretary Khaled Ahmed Rouf said that the Los Angeles convention represents the true spirit of FOBANA, and expressed confidence that it would meet the expectations of the Bangladeshi diaspora.
According to FOBANA and organizers, the 40th convention will be held during the Labor Day weekend, from September 4–6, at the Hilton Los Angeles in Universal City, California.
Organizers said the venue was selected to make this year’s convention historic, as Universal City is a major global tourism hub known for its blend of history, modern attractions, and cultural experiences. Attendees will also have the opportunity to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, enjoy the famous studio tour, explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and experience thrilling attractions like the Fast & Furious ride.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Bangladeshi community leaders in Los Angeles, mainstream political figures, prominent personalities, artists, media professionals, corporate executives, and sponsors.
Also present were Media Committee Chairman Laskar Al Mamun, former Chairperson Masud Chowdhury Rob, Treasurer Mahin Uddin Dulal, former Treasurer Priyalal Karmakar, former Convener Hasmat Mubin, former official Mahbubur Rahman Bhuiyan, Kazi Nahid, and others.