HOUSTON, TX USA, 2024) – Houston AAPI Unity Gala was organized at the inaugural
Houston AAPI Convention on July 27, 2024, at the Corinthian, bringing together a diverse group
of leaders, advocates, and community members to celebrate and advance the interests of
Houston’s Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. The landmark event
attracted and featured an array of influential speakers, panel discussions and networking
opportunities.
Organized by the City of Houston Mayor’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Advisory Board
(Board) and held concurrently with the 2024 Leadership Convention by National Association of
Asian American Professionals (NAAAP).
The Houston AAPI Convention culminated in a special AAPI Unity Gala with Keynote Address by
Mayor John Whitmire, who acknowledge the important role AAPI Community in the City of
Houston and highlighted the plans of his administration with the major inclusion of AAPI
Community. The Gala Also recognizes outstanding individuals for their contributions to the AAPI
community. Awardees included businessman and philanthropist Syed Javaid Anwar, who
received the “Houston AAPI Legacy Award” on Lifetime Achievements presented by the Mayor
John Whitmire.
According to Board Chairman Nomaan Husain, “Through the event, we were able to
demonstrate how important the AAPI community is to Houston’s economic vitality and cultural
fabric & we look forward to building on the momentum generated by this groundbreaking
gathering.”
Chair Convention Committee Muhammad Saeed Sheikh called the initiating of AAPI Legacy
Award a milestone, which highlighted the outstanding Achievements of AAPI community and
celebration.
The success of the first-ever Houston AAPI Convention paves the way for future events that will
continue to champion AAPI causes and promote inclusivity. Follow the work of the Mayor’s AAPI
Advisory Board to keep apprised of future programming.
The City of Houston Mayor’s AAPI Advisory Board was established to help forge stronger connections
between the City and its diverse communities. The board has three main goals: (i) increase engagement
with the City of Houston; (ii) identify and recommend community leaders to serve on city panels; and (iii)
work with law enforcement to identify crime issues that impact businesses. Follow the AAPI Advisory
Board at www.houstonaapiconvention.org or on LinkedIn at Houston Mayor’s Asian American and Pacific
Islander Advisory Board.
