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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline FEBRUARY 13, 2026 | The Indian Eye 22

Defying –40°F, Chicago Hosts a Global

Celebration of Achievement and Couture

International Achievers Awards & International Fashion Gala 2026

OUR BUREAU
Chicago, IL
raving one of Chicago’s harshest winter
nights in decades, with temperatures plung-
Bing close to –40°F, global leaders, entrepre-
neurs, 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, el-
egance, and cross-cultural celebration.
Despite the extreme cold, the atmosphere in-
side the venue was charged with energy and op-
timism 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 dis-
tinguished audience through a night that blended
achievement, fashion, culture, and community im-
pact 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 plat-
forms 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 was joined by Iftekhar Shareef, the world’s first At the heart of the evening was the awards
the tone by acknowledging the scale and ambi- Overseas Citizen of India, honoured for decades ceremony, which recognised individuals and or-
tion of the event and recognising Israni’s leader- of diplomatic, cultural, and bridge-building contri- ganisations whose work has made a tangible global
ship. “Taking on a project of this scale—bringing butions across continents. impact. Tatha was named Best Emerging Global
together so many achievers under one shared vi- Fashion emerged as one of the evening’s most Skincare Brand for founder Divita Kanoria’s plant
sion—is no small feat,” Jaitly said, congratulating powerful storytelling elements, celebrating her- stem cell innovation inspired by personal healing
the founder on the success of her US debut and itage while embracing modernity. Amitha Fash- and sustainability. Prachi Jaitly herself was hon-
wishing her continued impact in the years ahead. ions, led by designer Kavitha Rao, presented an oured with Excellence in Global Media & Arts for
The presence of prominent public figures Indo-Western and bridal collection that seamlessly her coverage of landmark global moments includ-
lent weight and credibility to the occasion. Chief blended Kanjivaram, Paithani, and Banarasi silks ing the G20 and the Ram Mandir inauguration.
Guests included Jawaharial Williams, Democratic with contemporary silhouettes. Suchita Pandey fol- Canadian International Scholars School, led
member of the Illinois House of Representatives lowed with a showcase of classic Indian craftsman- by Gurinder S. Saini, received the award for Best
from the 10th District, known for his advocacy ship, featuring Gota Patti, Chikankari, Bandhani, School for Global Excellence and Diversity, while
on healthcare access, economic opportunity, in- Leheriya, and Danka work, while Neena Fashion’s ROVIS Management Solutions was recognised as
frastructure, and public safety. He was joined by “Shining Stars” collection delivered bold, modern Best Global Management & Business Solutions
Harry Benton, Representative of the 97th District, interpretations rooted in traditional textiles. Provider for its work across more than 23 countries
whose journey from union ironworker to legislator The cultural programme was further enriched since 2013. Amjadullah Khan earned the Voice of
has made him a symbol of grassroots empower- by performances that resonated deeply with the the People Award for his grassroots justice initia-
ment and resilience. audience. Dancer Minoo Vasudevan captivated tives as a two-time Corporator and host of Praja
Guests of Honor reflected the global and com- attendees with an expressive performance marked Darbar.
munity-driven ethos of the evening. Ajeet Singh, by grace and emotional depth. Musical highlights Hafsa was named Best Influencer of the Year,
President of Midway Business Broker and the In- included a live performance by S. Shubham, hon- recognised for her work as a TEDx speaker, PhD
dian American Business Council, was recognised oured as Best Bollywood Playback Singer. A self- scholar, entrepreneur, and advocate for women-led
for growing his firm from $5 million to $87 million taught artist who began singing at the age of eight, businesses and community empowerment. Other
in sales and for leading the landmark #ISTAND- Shubham’s journey—from early devotionals to honours included Rani’s Nails & Spa as Celebri-
FORPEACE event at the UIC Forum, which viral acclaim with “Madine Chale” on 104.5 Vibe ty Salon of the Year under Umaima’s leadership;
brought together more than 3,000 participants. He FM—struck a powerful chord with the audience. Continued on next page... >>

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