The Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA) is gearing up for a milestone moment. The kick-off meeting for its 40th annual convention has been set for Friday, April 3, at 7:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Resort by the Park in Kissimmee, Florida — marking the official start of preparations for one of the biggest gatherings in the Bangladeshi diaspora calendar.
The three-day convention itself is planned for Labor Day weekend — September 4, 5, and 6 — in Orlando, a city that needs little introduction as a global tourism hub.
This year’s event is being hosted by the Bangladesh Association of Central Florida, with three co-host organizations lending their support: the Bangladesh Society of Central Florida, World Fair and Fest USA Inc., and Central Florida Sports Club Inc.
FOBANA’s top leadership — including Executive Chairman Zahid Hossain, Executive Secretary Nihal Rahim, Host Committee President Shamim Ahmed, Convener Anwar Hossain Sentu, Member Secretary Russell Mia, and Chief Coordinator Nazimullah Liton — have personally extended invitations to members of the Bangladeshi-American community to join the April 3 kick-off.
The meeting won’t just be a logistical planning session. Leaders say it’s also an opportunity to reflect on what four decades of FOBANA truly means. Since its founding, the organization has grown into something far larger than a membership body — it has become a living symbol of community, resilience, and cultural pride for Bangladeshis scattered
across North America.
The convention program is shaping up to be expansive. Attendees can expect a grand anniversary opening ceremony, vibrant cultural performances rooted in Bangladeshi heritage, leadership forums, community dialogues, youth development sessions, business networking opportunities, and dedicated seminars on women’s empowerment and
participation.
Organizers are expecting a diverse crowd — community leaders, entrepreneurs, cultural figures, young professionals, and advocates from across North America, Bangladesh, and beyond.
At its heart, FOBANA has always been about more than events. It’s where traditions are kept alive, where the next generation connects with its roots, and where a community spread across borders finds common ground. The 40th convention promises to honor that legacy while looking ahead to the future.
