The Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA) held its 40th convention in Orlando over the Labor Day weekend, bringing together Bangladeshi-American community organisations, artists and cultural personalities.
The three-day convention began with a gala dinner on Friday. The second day featured the convention theme song, performed by Dinat Jahan Munni, with lyrics and music by Kabir Bokul. The programme also included seminars and performances by member organisations and leading Bangladeshi artists, including Imran Mahmudul, Dilshaad Nahar Kona and Arzeen Kamal.
During the Annual General Meeting (AGM), FOBANA elected a new executive committee for the 2026–2028 term. Atiqur Rahman was elected chairman, while Niehal Rahim was elected executive secretary.
Ziaul Haque Zia and Aminul Zinali Collins were elected executive vice presidents. Md Shahab Uddin and Imran Jony Alam were elected joint secretaries, while Shahedul Islam Anjan was elected treasurer.
The AGM also approved the Bangladesh League of America, New York, as the host committee for the 2027 FOBANA convention. Several other recommendations from member organisations were also approved.
A total of 47 organisations registered for this year’s convention, with more than a dozen organisations from Florida participating in the event.
Sunday’s programme featured additional seminars and participation by member organisations. The main stage hosted a special tribute to the late Shotto Saha, featuring a performance by his son Imon Saha, a seven-time national award-winning Bangladeshi musician.
FOBANA also conferred a posthumous recognition on Shotto Saha. His wife, national award-winning artist Romola Saha, accepted the honour on behalf of the family. The recognition was presented by Ankhi Alamgir and Dinat Jahan Munni alongside FOBANA leaders.
The evening featured performances by Ankhi Alamgir, Dinat Jahan Munni, Shazu Khadem, Zayed Khan, Shirin Shila, Itisha Chowdhury and World Cup opener singer Sanjay.
FOBANA congratulated the newly elected committee and thanked all participating organisations, artists and guests for making the 40th convention a successful milestone for the federation.
