International Achievers Awards & International Fashion Gala 2026
Our Bureau
Chicago, IL
Braving one of Chicago’s harshest winter nights in decades, with temperatures plunging close to –40°F, global leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and changemakers gathered for the International Achievers Awards & International Fashion Gala 2026—an evening that transformed the frozen city into a warm stage of inspiration, elegance, and cross-cultural celebration.
Despite the extreme cold, the atmosphere inside the venue was charged with energy and optimism as the event unfolded under the poised stewardship of renowned anchor Prachi Jaitly, who served as Master of Ceremony. With grace and confidence, Jaitly guided a diverse and distinguished audience through a night that blended achievement, fashion, culture, and community impact into a single global narrative.
The gala was spearheaded by Meena Israni, Founder of Being Muskaan Events, a Dubai-based company known for curating high-impact platforms such as the Gulf Achievers Awards, Golf Achievers Award, and MasterChef Golf. Widely respected for combining prestige with purpose, Israni has built a reputation for bringing together leaders and changemakers in meaningful forums. The Chicago gala marked her debut major event in the United States, signalling the expanding global footprint of her vision.
From the opening moments, Prachi Jaitly set the tone by acknowledging the scale and ambition of the event and recognising Israni’s leadership. “Taking on a project of this scale—bringing together so many achievers under one shared vision—is no small feat,” Jaitly said, congratulating the founder on the success of her US debut and wishing her continued impact in the years ahead.
The presence of prominent public figures lent weight and credibility to the occasion. Chief Guests included Jawaharial Williams, Democratic member of the Illinois House of Representatives from the 10th District, known for his advocacy on healthcare access, economic opportunity, infrastructure, and public safety. He was joined by Harry Benton, Representative of the 97th District, whose journey from union ironworker to legislator has made him a symbol of grassroots empowerment and resilience.
Guests of Honor reflected the global and community-driven ethos of the evening. Ajeet Singh, President of Midway Business Broker and the Indian American Business Council, was recognised for growing his firm from $5 million to $87 million in sales and for leading the landmark #ISTANDFORPEACE event at the UIC Forum, which brought together more than 3,000 participants. He was joined by Iftekhar Shareef, the world’s first Overseas Citizen of India, honoured for decades of diplomatic, cultural, and bridge-building contributions across continents.
Fashion emerged as one of the evening’s most powerful storytelling elements, celebrating heritage while embracing modernity. Amitha Fashions, led by designer Kavitha Rao, presented an Indo-Western and bridal collection that seamlessly blended Kanjivaram, Paithani, and Banarasi silks with contemporary silhouettes. Suchita Pandey followed with a showcase of classic Indian craftsmanship, featuring Gota Patti, Chikankari, Bandhani, Leheriya, and Danka work, while Neena Fashion’s “Shining Stars” collection delivered bold, modern interpretations rooted in traditional textiles.
The cultural programme was further enriched by performances that resonated deeply with the audience. Dancer Minoo Vasudevan captivated attendees with an expressive performance marked by grace and emotional depth. Musical highlights included a live performance by S. Shubham, honoured as Best Bollywood Playback Singer. A self-taught artist who began singing at the age of eight, Shubham’s journey—from early devotionals to viral acclaim with “Madine Chale” on 104.5 Vibe FM—struck a powerful chord with the audience.
At the heart of the evening was the awards ceremony, which recognised individuals and organisations whose work has made a tangible global impact. Tatha was named Best Emerging Global Skincare Brand for founder Divita Kanoria’s plant stem cell innovation inspired by personal healing and sustainability. Prachi Jaitly herself was honoured with Excellence in Global Media & Arts for her coverage of landmark global moments including the G20 and the Ram Mandir inauguration.
Canadian International Scholars School, led by Gurinder S. Saini, received the award for Best School for Global Excellence and Diversity, while ROVIS Management Solutions was recognised as Best Global Management & Business Solutions Provider for its work across more than 23 countries since 2013. Amjadullah Khan earned the Voice of the People Award for his grassroots justice initiatives as a two-time Corporator and host of Praja Darbar.
Hafsa was named Best Influencer of the Year, recognised for her work as a TEDx speaker, PhD scholar, entrepreneur, and advocate for women-led businesses and community empowerment. Other honours included Rani’s Nails & Spa as Celebrity Salon of the Year under Umaima’s leadership; Wise Minds Group as Best Global Business Support Solutions Provider, led by Abhilasha Goyal; Sunny Anand as Businessman of the Year for expanding AlBraikiExports globally; Mauj Entertainment as Breakthrough Entertainment Company under Zaki Khan; and Regal Jewels as Best Jewelry Brand of the Year, marking over 35 years of excellence.
Crowned honours were presented to Dr. Reshmi Nair Upreti as Mrs. Intellectual Diva and to Sridevi Kammiti as Woman of Substance & Walk, celebrating perseverance, leadership, and humanitarian commitment.
Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman and Founder of Asian Media USA, described the event as a rare convergence of achievement and purpose. “This is the first time that so many accomplished individuals have come together under one roof to celebrate each other’s journeys,” he said, adding that it ranked among the most prestigious ceremonies Asian Media USA has covered.
The evening’s seamless flow was guided by Show Director Manoj Shetty, a Dubai-based fashion professional and Mr. UAE International 2021–22, whose 19 years of runway expertise were evident throughout. Red carpet host Shweta Chinnari Paris, a Chicago Fashion Week alum, Mrs. India Illinois, and Woman of the Year, brought warmth and star power to every interaction.
The event was supported by a strong network of partners, including Asian Media USA, Khaleej Times, and IUSA Media, with makeup artistry by Gaby Perez, music by DJ Foxtales, photography by JLG Visual Arts, Glamour Vibes Studio, and Mayur Patil, venue support from Holiday Inn & Suites, and charitable alignment with Make India Proud: Education for Children.
In the face of extreme cold, the International Achievers Awards & International Fashion Gala 2026 stood as a powerful reminder that passion, vision, and unity can transcend even the harshest conditions. For those who braved the freezing temperatures, the night offered more than celebration—it delivered a shared belief that global collaboration and excellence continue to burn brightly, no matter the weather.
Asian Media USA
