By Farida Yasmin
JAMAICA, New York — A special gathering bringing together members of the Bangladeshi American community to discuss nature, wildlife conservation and community health awareness was held on October 14 at Angan Party Hall in Jamaica, Queens. Titled Dekha-Sakkhat (Meet and Connect), the event combined discussion, cultural exchange and community engagement.
The program began at 5 p.m. and featured retired Additional Inspector General of Police Ansar Uddin Khan Pathan, a passionate advocate for nature and wildlife conservation, and Dr. Sumaiya Chowdhury, among other guests.
Moderated by Ibrahim Chowdhury, the discussion brought together community leaders, organizers, professionals and cultural figures. Participants included Councilwoman Shifa Uddin, Monzurul Hoque, Manjur Ahmed, Nasir Khan Paul, Mahbub Rahman, Zakir Hossain, Faku Chowdhury, Selina Uddin, CIP Kallol Ahmed, Jebunnesa Jyotsna, Farida Yasmin, Rashida Akter, Sahana Yasmin, Snowflakes Shabana, Manisha Dutta, Viola Salina, Shelly Zaman Khan, Rupa Khanam, Semu Afroza, Elma Siddiqui, Mahmudul Chowdhury, Mia Mohammad Askir, Moiz Uddin, Zahir Hossain, Kamrul Hasan, Mahmudul Islam Kaiyum, Mohammad Emon Rahman, Abu Torab Khan, Md. Nasir, Md. Zohurul Haque, Palash Saha, Md. Abu Taher Chowdhury, Mahfuza Chowdhury, Aiyan Chowdhury, Anwar Mondal, Humayun Kabir Liton, Ishteak Chowdhury, Mohammad Chowdhury, Md. Abdul Kaiyum, Mohammad Hossain, Rahat Rahman, James, Shamim Chowdhury, Sadat Kabir, Md. Mansur Ahmed, Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman, Nilufar Khan, Nuzhat, Mashiul Maheen, Swapna Khan and Chowdhury Md. Sheikh, among others.
Exploring Nature and Wildlife Conservation
Ansar Uddin Khan Pathan spoke about the importance of protecting nature and wildlife, emphasizing the relationship between people and the natural world, the need to maintain ecological balance, and the role of public awareness in conservation.
The retired senior police official also shared insights into birds, nature photography and the diversity of bird species. His discussion of different species, their distinctive characteristics and their ways of life captivated the audience and encouraged greater appreciation of the natural world.
Promoting Community Health Awareness
Dr. Sumaiya Chowdhury addressed the importance of health awareness within the community. She observed that a lack of awareness often prevents important health-related issues from receiving the attention they deserve.
She emphasized that open discussion and the exchange of information are essential to promoting healthier lifestyles and building awareness within families and the wider community. The discussion also highlighted the importance of access to reliable health information among Bangladeshi Americans.
Township Recognition for Ansar Uddin Khan Pathan
During the event, Councilwoman Shifa Uddin presented Ansar Uddin Khan Pathan with a certificate of recognition on behalf of Franklin Township, New Jersey.
While presenting the certificate, Uddin praised Prothom Alo North America for regularly organizing distinctive programs that bring together and serve Bangladeshi communities in New York and New Jersey.
She described the recognition of Khan Pathan as an acknowledgment of the contributions of an individual dedicated to nature and environmental conservation.
In response, Khan Pathan expressed his gratitude and invited Councilwoman Uddin to visit Bangladesh.
Community Leaders Praise the Initiative
Selina Uddin, North American coordinator of the environmental organization DHORA and a real estate professional, spoke about her commitment to supporting meaningful community initiatives. Congratulating Khan Pathan and Dr. Chowdhury, she thanked the organizers and participants for making the gathering a success.
Nasir Khan Paul, a veteran New York community organizer and Republican leader, praised Prothom Alo North America for bringing together people with distinctive experiences and perspectives through innovative programs that enrich community life.
Khan Pathan, Dr. Sumaiya Chowdhury and Elma Siddiqui, daughter of the celebrated Bangladeshi musician Bari Siddiqui, were also welcomed with bouquets of flowers.
Music and Fellowship Conclude the Evening
In addition to the discussions, the gathering offered participants an opportunity to share personal experiences, exchange ideas and strengthen connections within the community. Organizers expressed hope that initiatives of this kind would promote social awareness while fostering greater communication and cooperation among Bangladeshi Americans.
The event was organized with the participation of the Prothom Alo North America family, Deshi Tribune and Prothom Alo Foundation USA.
The evening concluded with dinner and musical performances by Zakir Hossain and Elma Siddiqui, bringing the community gathering to a warm and memorable close.
