Jessica Morgan:
The heart of Montreal came alive as the 39th FOBANA Convention 2025 brought together thousands of Bangladeshi expatriates from across North America for a three-day celebration of culture, community, and heritage. Held from August 29 to 31 at the Plaza Downtown Hotel, the convention reaffirmed its reputation as the largest annual gathering of Bangladeshis abroad.
The festivities opened with a gala dinner on August 29, an invitation-only evening that set the tone for the weekend. Leaders of the Bangladeshi community in Canada and the United States, along with special guests, joined hands to mark the beginning of a program that blended tradition with modernity.
Across the weekend, attendees were treated to a wide range of events — from literature and poetry sessions to business and leadership summits, showcasing the intellectual and professional contributions of the diaspora. The Youth Forum provided an interactive platform for the younger generation to share ideas on identity, innovation, and leadership, while seminars touched on pressing issues such as immigration, entrepreneurship, and community development.
The cultural performances, however, remained the highlight of the convention. Acclaimed Bangladeshi artists lit up the stage, with film star Nusraat Faria, singer Shikritty, Munni, and actor Zayed Khan captivating audiences with music, dance, and drama. The performances drew loud applause and demonstrated how the diaspora maintains strong ties to Bangladeshi cultural traditions, even while living thousands of miles away.
Hosted by Canada-Bangladesh Solidarity (CBS), the event brought together a dedicated organizing team led by Atiqur Rahman (Chairperson), Niehal Rahim (Executive Secretary), Ziaul Haque Zia (Convenor), Iqbal Kabir (Member Secretary), and Abul Hossain Dulal (Chief Coordinator). The tireless efforts of volunteers and community leaders ensured the success of the large-scale convention, which also featured handicraft exhibitions, a fashion show, and a talent showcase.
For many, the convention was more than just an annual meeting — it was a reaffirmation of shared identity. Members of the Bangladesh Society of Montreal, including President Muhim Ahmed and Cultural Secretary Jenifer Gomes, proudly attended the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity. While some founding members, such as Ezaz Akhtar Toufiq, could not be present, their absence was deeply felt and acknowledged.
By the time the convention concluded on August 31, participants carried with them a renewed sense of pride in their heritage and optimism for the future. Whether through networking sessions, cultural displays, or shared meals, FOBANA once again proved its role as a bridge connecting Bangladeshis across borders.
As the Federation looks ahead, the 39th Convention in Montreal will be remembered as a milestone — not only for its dazzling performances and high-profile guests, but also for its ability to bring together a global community in the spirit of unity and cultural celebration.
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