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GOPIO News Bulletin June 2026

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Honoring Excellence. Inspiring Youth. Building Tomorrow.

A Publication of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)

Published Monthly

President Prakash Shah

Editor-in-Chief

Umesh Chandra OAM

Senior Editorial Advisor

Thomas Abraham

Editorial Assistant

Nami Kaur

GOPIO News Bulletin is a monthly newsletter published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by GOPIO News Bulletin, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in GOPIO News Bulletin are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by GOPIO News Bulletin. GOPIO News Bulletin will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply / approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers / correspondents responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned.

From the Editor:

Editor's Note

Welcome to the June issue of GOPIO International News Bulletin. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed articles and submitted content this month—we truly appreciate your effort and dedication, which helps keep our global voice strong and consistent.

Personally, I have been very busy with our signature event, the Iconic India Day Fair, guiding the new committee as we navigate how to deliver the event amid ongoing challenges. Clinic visits often compromise my three working days, yet the work continues with your support and teamwork. I’m grateful for the patience and collaboration across chapters that make this possible.

Our global chapters are all doing well, and it is encouraging to see activity levels increasing across regions. We must report on the good work we do so that the wider community can see our achievements and efforts and be inspired to participate and contribute.

Congratulations to my wife, Usha Chandra, who has been awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the King’s Birthday Honours list. Messages have been pouring in from afar and from key politicians and community leaders. I was honoured to receive recognition in 2020 as well. Usha has been the driving force behind my success and award, and it is wonderful to see her efforts acknowledged. Now is her time to celebrate, and it is gratifying to witness that recognition.

Our Webinar series continues, though the challenge of finding a mutually acceptable time across the globe remains real. Planning for the Mumbai convention is well underway, with broad participation from many chapters. Many of our chapters have been involved, in one way or another, in International Yoga Day celebrations, reflecting our commitment to wellness, culture, and community engagement.

If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to: ceo@chantex.com.au

20 JULY 2026

15 JULY 2026

Email: ceo@chantex.com.au

I want to thank everyone for the positive feedback on our news bulletin. We strive to deliver a high-quality publication every month, and that would not be possible without your contributions and submissions. Your thoughtful reviews and suggestions help us refine our content and presentation.

I should sign off now, until next month. Happy reading.

GOPIO NEWS BULLETIN

Connecticut chapter of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) celebrates its 20th anniversary

Dr. Vishal Harsh, Deputy Consul General of India in New York, delivering keynote address

The Connecticut chapter of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) marked its 20th anniversary on June 13, 2026, when it hosted a bipartisan gathering of state lawmakers, international diplomats, and civic leaders at Water’s Edge Banquet Hall. The annual awards gala recognised five prominent Indian American leaders across political leadership, entrepreneurship, corporate management, engineering, and journalism. Beyond celebrating regional

professional excellence, the milestone event highlighted two decades of institutional growth, fundraising for local youth educational charities, and the expanding demographic and economic footprint of the South Asian diaspora within the New England political landscape.

DCG Vishal Harsh presenting the award to CT State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox
CT Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson presenting award plaque to veteran journalist Ajay Ghosh

Under the theme “Celebrating Legacy; Inspiring Youth; Building Tomorrow,” the event in Darien, CT, began with a grand Annual Awards Banquet at Water’s Edge on June 13, 2026, as GOPIO-CT acknowledged five Indian American leaders for their civic and professional excellence. The milestone occasion drew a bipartisan cohort of state and local lawmakers, community leaders, and professionals, mirroring the growing political, economic, and cultural influence of the South Asian diaspora in Connecticut and across the United States. The evening also underscored two decades of GOPIO-CT’s commitment to advocacy, cultural preservation, and community service.

The keynote guest was India’s Deputy Consul General in New York, Vishal Harsh, who presented awards to the honourees. Other dignitaries who spoke at the banquet included Connecticut Senators Sujata Gadkar Wilcox and Tony Hwang, and Connecticut Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson.

In his keynote remarks, Dr Vishal Harsh said, “The achievements of Indian Americans have become a global benchmark— communities across the world look to replicate the success and impact you have created in

GOPIO-CT leaders present $25,000 each to Future 5 and Children's Learning Center of Fairfield

the United States.”

He elaborated on the diaspora’s success, stating, “The Indian diaspora in the United States stands as a powerful testimony to excellence, innovation, and global leadership.

They have distinguished themselves across sectors, setting benchmarks of achievement and integrity.” He also highlighted the consular services available to the diaspora around the clock

DCG Vishal Harsh presenting the award to Nitin Mhatre, Chief Executive Officer at First County Bank

GOPIO-CT Awardees with dignitaries and chapter organizers

to meet community needs.

GOPIO-CT President Mahesh Jhangiani reflected on the organisation’s twodecade journey, saying, “As we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of GOPIO-CT, I

am honoured and grateful to reflect on the incredible journey of our organisation over the past two decades. Since its founding, GOPIOCT has served as a vibrant platform promoting community service,

cultural heritage, civic engagement, and unity among People of Indian Origin in Connecticut and beyond.” He added that the milestone testified to the dedication of members, volunteers, sponsors,

Artists from MASCONN performing a Bollywood medley at the event

and community partners whose support had driven growth and achievements, and that the group had built a strong, respected organisation committed to service, education, youth empowerment, and community collaboration.

Dr Thomas Abraham, founder president of GOPIO International and chair of the Awards Committee, emphasised the honorees’ broader significance. “Over the past two decades, GOPIO-CT has set an

outstanding example of how a local chapter can effectively organise, engage, and serve the community. In many ways, its success became a model for GOPIO International in shaping the structure and activities of local chapters worldwide,” he noted. Dr Abraham, who helped launch GOPIO in 1989, recalled that GOPIO had long championed issues affecting the Indian Diaspora, including civil rights, human rights, community empowerment, and political participation,

and that the organisation continued to expand its mission through conferences, public forums, cultural celebrations, social service, and philanthropic initiatives. “GOPIO remains committed to enhancing India’s image globally while promoting business, trade, investment, and philanthropic linkages between India and the worldwide Indian Diaspora,” he stated.

CT Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson

GOPIO-CT Awardees 2026

presented an award plaque to veteran journalist Ajay Ghosh. At the same time, Mike Joshi, the GOPIOCT Banquet Chair and Secretary, emceed the gala and remarked that the banquet represented not only a milestone in GOPIO’s 20th year but also a means of raising funds for Youth Charity Initiatives in the community. He emphasised that continued support would enable GOPIO to fulfil its mission of fostering cooperation between People of Indian Origin and local communities, as well as its ongoing charitable contributions and volunteer efforts across Connecticut.

Artists from MASCONN performed a Bollywood medley during the evening. The 2026 honorees spanned a broad array of fields, including political leadership, entrepreneurship and business achievements, corporate leadership, engineering, and journalism, reflecting the diverse professional and civic contributions of Connecticut’s growing South Asian diaspora.

In the Political Leadership category, State Senator Sujata GadkarWilcox was honoured. Elected to the Connecticut State Senate in 2024 to represent the 22nd District, which includes

parts of Trumbull, Monroe, and Bridgeport, Gadkar-Wilcox is also a Professor of Legal Studies at Quinnipiac University. Dr Anil R. Diwan, founder, president, and executive chairman of NanoViricides, Inc. (NYSE American: NNVC), received the Entrepreneurship and Business Achievements award for his work in developing antiviral therapies using nanoviricide technology. In Corporate Leadership, Nitin Mhatre was recognised after assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer at First County Bank on April 15, 2026. Hemchandra M. Shertukde, PhD, P.E., DMS, received the Engineering and Applied Sciences award for his four decades of service as a faculty member in the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture at the University of Hartford. Ajay Ghosh earned the Journalism award for a career spanning more than 30 years across mass media, higher education, and clinical healthcare.

In a compelling speech, Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox discussed how diverse cultural traditions have enriched the American story, noting that “Sunday family dinners have their roots in Italian culture. Similarly, when Quinnipiac University hosts a Garba dance and Diwali celebration, students from

different backgrounds mark their calendars and look forward to attending. These traditions become part of the American story because immigrants and their families are the American story.” She also addressed the issue of who gets to speak for the United States, condemning racism and xenophobia while affirming that the immigrant story belongs to all Americans.

Ghosh, in accepting his award, said, “I am proud to represent journalists around the world. I dedicate this honour to my colleagues who keep the public informed and ensure that truth reaches society responsibly.” He warned of a global crisis facing journalism and stressed that it was not a local problem but a systemic global challenge.

Beyond honouring the honorees, the gala recognised GOPIO-CT’s founding members and past presidents for their leadership over the past two decades, highlighting the organisation’s role in fostering civic dialogue, youth engagement, and professional networking across Connecticut. GOPIOCT leaders also presented $25,000 contributions each to Future 5 and the Children’s Learning Centre of Fairfield, reinforcing the group’s commitment to youth and education.

GOPIO Queensland forges collaboration with the Consulate General of India (CGI) Brisbane

GOPIO Queensland and the Consulate General of India (CGI) Brisbane collaborated to advance plans for the Iconic India Day Fair (IDF) 2026, marking a milestone in Queensland’s Indian diaspora celebrations. The Trustees and Executive Committee of GOPIO

Queensland met with CGI Brisbane on 8 June 2026 at Level 12, 301 Coronation Drive, Milton, to review the festival’s strategic direction, branding, and collaboration framework for the year ahead.

The discussion, led by GOPIO Queensland

representatives Umesh Chandra OAM (Trustee), Yousuf Alikhan (Trustee), Archana Singh (Patron), Priya Jaganathan (President), Santiyagu Chandran (Joint Treasurer), and Mayur Brahmbhatt (Assistant Secretary), and joined by CGI Neetu Bhagotia and Sushil Goel,

focused on strengthening the festival’s impact while broadening engagement beyond the Indian community. The meeting culminated in several key decisions and action items designed to elevate the event’s profile and inclusivity.

A central outcome of the discussions was the adoption of the IDF 2026 theme, “Unity in Diversity.” This thematic choice aims to broaden the festival’s audience reach and strengthen marketing narratives by highlighting the richness of Queensland’s multicultural landscape. The theme is anticipated to attract a wider array of communities and enhance the quality of performances by inviting diverse participation, while maintaining a strong celebratory focus on India’s independence and the Indian diaspora’s contributions.

In discussing community engagement, the meeting proposed that GOPIO Queensland host a planning session for the IDF or convene a meeting with presidents of Brisbane’s multicultural community organisations, spanning South Asian, East Asian, Pacific, African, European, Latin American, and Middle Eastern groups. The initial emphasis would be on Indian associations to secure broad support for both the festival and the parade,

with the aim of cultivating a robust, cross-community collaborative framework for future events.

There was consensus to review and streamline the overall duration to enhance the audience experience and ensure a high-quality, highimpact program. Regarding content, the group emphasised the importance of delivering a premium performance lineup during VIP proceedings, preferring selectively curated, highcalibre acts rather than accepting all offered performances.

A significant portion of the planning focuses on performance quality and audience reach. The committee agreed to engage student groups to support promotion and volunteering efforts, while explicitly incorporating a few multicultural performances into the program. The goal is to balance strong Indian cultural offerings with broader, inclusive showcases that reflect Queensland’s diverse population and strengthen the festival’s appeal across communities.

The festival’s upcoming calendar includes a prominent Independence Day celebration on Saturday, 15 August 2026, at Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane. The event promises new cultural performances, fresh stage showcases, opportunities to participate in the community

parade, and an expanded platform for community groups, performers, small businesses, volunteers, sponsors, and families. As Australia’s multicultural fabric continues to strengthen, GOPIO Queensland and CGI Brisbane are committed to delivering an event that not only commemorates India’s independence but also celebrates Queensland’s diverse cultural spirit and the resilience of the Indian diaspora.

With the planning session having established a clear path forward, GOPIO Queensland looks ahead to finalising partnerships, securing funding, and refining the event timeline. The collaboration with CGI Brisbane underscores a shared commitment to delivering a high-calibre, inclusive, and memorable Iconic India Day Fair that resonates with audiences across Queensland and beyond.

Brisbane residents and supporters can anticipate further updates as IDF 2026 moves from planning to execution, culminating in a celebration that is, in the organisers’ words, iconic. The broader community is invited to participate, contribute, and join in recognising the strength and vibrancy of India’s independence and Queensland’s multicultural landscape.

GOPIO International Life Member, Usha Chandra, Awarded OAM

Usha Chandra, a founder member and past president of GOPIO Queensland and life member of GOPIO International, was honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) as part of the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours. The recognition, announced amid widespread praise,

underscored Chandra’s decades of service to multicultural communities across Queensland and her leadership roles within the Indian-Australian community.

The news was celebrated by many in the community, including Cr Sandy Landers, who issued a

congratulatory message acknowledging Usha’s long-standing dedication to service, leadership, and community wellbeing. The acknowledgement highlighted her efforts to support multicultural communities, local businesses, charities, and families throughout Queensland, while also

building a successful real estate practice focused on helping people achieve their property goals.

Chandra’s OAM was described as welldeserved, reflecting her ongoing commitment to bringing people together, supporting community initiatives, and making a positive difference in others' lives. The Globenet Realty team extended their congratulations, expressing pride in Usha’s achievement and their pleasure in working alongside her.

Senator Paul Scarr also offered his thanks and support, sending kind words in recognition of Chandra’s contributions and the broader significance of her work within multicultural Queensland. In a statement of gratitude, Chandra expressed deep humility, noting that the honour reflected the collective efforts of volunteers, community leaders, organisations, friends, and family who had supported her over the years.

“I remain privileged to serve the IndianAustralian and multicultural communities, with a continued focus on fostering cultural understanding, community engagement, and opportunities for future generations,” Chandra said, adding thanks to Senator Scarr for his friendship and ongoing support of

I remain privileged to serve the Indian-Australian and multicultural communities, with a continued focus on fostering cultural understanding, community engagement, and opportunities for future generations,” Chandra said, adding thanks to Senator Scarr for his friendship and ongoing support of multicultural Queensland. She also invited continued congratulations and best wishes from the community.

multicultural Queensland. She also invited continued congratulations and best wishes from the community.

The honours list also highlighted Tammy Robinson, who received a Medal of the Order of Australia for her work with Formally Ever After Qld Inc., supporting students who face barriers to attending their formal events. In addition to recognising Usha Chandra, the list noted Detective Superintendent

George Marchesini’s Australian Police Medal for distinguished service to the Queensland Police Service.

Media outlets, including The Australian and SBS, highlighted the achievements of IndianAustralians recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List, praising the recipients’ contributions to Australian society. Usha Chandra’s leadership at Globenet Realty, where she has served for over 38 years, was noted, along with her roles as Immediate Past President of GOPIO Queensland and her broader work across community organisations.

Chandra emphasised that the honour reaffirmed her lifelong commitment to service, philanthropy, leadership, and advocacy within Queensland’s multicultural landscape. The broader community celebrated the honour as a milestone for leadership and service, with wellwishers acknowledging the enduring impact of Chandra’s work on generations of community members.

As congratulations continued to pour in, Usha Chandra's supporters urged the public to join in recognising her remarkable achievement and celebrating the ongoing contributions of her and other recipients to Australian society.

Harmony Cup 2026 Unites Communities Through Cricket in Thrilling Last-Ball Finale

Cairns, Queensland –Harmony Cup 2026 brought together communities from across Far North Queensland in a vibrant celebration of multiculturalism, friendship, and sport, culminating in a thrilling championship match decided on the very last ball of the tournament.

The event featured teams representing India, Bangladesh, PNG, China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Australia, Bhutan, and the Indigenous community, showcasing the power of sport to connect people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Organised by GOPIO Cairns Inc., Harmony Cup

2026 highlighted teamwork, inclusion, and community spirit both on and off the field. Hundreds of spectators enjoyed a day of exciting cricket, cultural exchange, and family-friendly activities.

GOPIO Cairns President and Tournament Organiser, Subash Chetry, thanked all players, volunteers, sponsors, supporters, officials, and spectators for their contribution to the event’s success.

“The Harmony Cup is about much more than cricket. It is about bringing people together, building friendships, and celebrating the diversity that makes our community stronger. The last-ball finish was a fitting end to an incredible day.”

GOPIO Cairns acknowledges the support of Major Sponsor Five Rivers Group, along with Queensland Cricket, Centacare, Mulgrave cricket,participating teams, volunteers, and community partners.

Following the success of this year’s event, organisers are already planning an even bigger Harmony Cup in 2027.

Media Contact:

Subash Chetry President, GOPIO Cairns Inc. Email: info@gopiocairns. org.au

Website: gopiocairns.org.au

A Leap of Compassion: GOPIO - San Gabriel Valley Reaffirms Its Commitment to Community Service

GOPIO - San Gabriel Valley was founded not for entertainment, but with a heartfelt mission to support the underprivileged. In a recent display of that enduring spirit, the organization reaffirmed its dedication to service by delivering tangible aid to those in need. Members spent the day cooking hot meals for the Miracle Mission program and distributing lunch boxes directly to people on Skid Row, alongside volunteers who shared stories, smiles, and a sense of community.

The day’s activities were carefully planned to occur on a bi-monthly basis, reinforcing a sustainable rhythm of outreach that would consistently nourish both bodies and spirits. Organizers highlighted that the goal extended beyond a one-time effort; it aimed to establish reliable support that vulnerable neighbors could count on, month after month. A special note of appreciation was extended to President Shivakumar, whose generous financial contribution helped cover meal ingredients, supplies, and transportation costs,

enabling the group to scale the reach of the event. Executive Vice President Uma Sankar was acknowledged for her meticulous coordination, ensuring that logistics—

from meal prep to distribution—ran smoothly and efficiently.

The meal-prep team included Sumati Arun, Priya Umasankar, and a

core group of passionate volunteers who worked in shifts to prepare nutritious, culturally resonant meals. Their dedication ensured recipes were wholesome, portions were appropriate for varied appetites, and dietary considerations were respected. Meanwhile, the organization’s youth team—Sadhanaa, Megha, and Jasmin—took the lead on packing and distribution. They organized the lunch boxes, labeled donations when needed, and physically handed meals to those encountered on Skid Row, approaching each recipient with respect, warmth, and dignity.

Throughout the day, volunteers noted how the act of giving created a reciprocal sense of joy, gratitude, and connection. The experience reminded everyone involved that small acts of service can illuminate the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, while also highlighting the resilience and humanity within the community. Attendees reported renewed motivation to continue their service and to broaden outreach opportunities in collaboration with partner organizations and local supporters.

Looking ahead, GOPIOSan Gabriel Valley intends to maintain this cadence of outreach, refining operations in response to feedback and evolving

needs. The group plans to document lessons learned, celebrate successes, and expand partnerships with local businesses, community centers, and philanthropic

groups to maximize impact. With ongoing dedication from leadership, volunteers, and supporters, the chapter remains committed to making

a positive difference— bringing hope, nourishment, and compassion to the community’s most vulnerable members, one event at a time.

The Indo-American Community Federation 25th anniversary annual Unity Dinner with GOPIO

MILPITAS, CA – The Indo-American Community Federation, co-sponsored by GOPIO, hosted the 25th anniversary of its annual Unity Dinner on April 3, bringing together nearly 400 community leaders and public officials at the India Community Centre here.

The evening opened with a panel discussion on artificial intelligence, focusing on societal impact, jobs, governance, security, trust,

and the role of business and local government in shaping responsible AI. Moderated by Tas Jalali, the panel included Moinul Khan of Aurascape, Krishnan Chellakarai of Gilead Sciences, former Fremont Mayor Lily Mei, and Sunnyvale City Councilmember Murali Srinivasan.

The program also featured the inaugural Public Sector Leadership Awards, recognising six leaders

across areas including transformation, innovation, service delivery, operations, cybersecurity, equity, and public service.

Milpitas Vice Mayor Chantel Walker presented the Transformational Leader of the Year award to Khaled Tawfik of the City of San Jose and the Equity, Accessibility and Community Impact award to Beverly Greene of VTA. Sunnyvale Mayor Larry Klein presented the

Innovation and Service Delivery Excellence award to Ahsan Baig of AC Transit and the Operational Excellence and Reliability award to Derek Calhoun of BART. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa presented the Cybersecurity, Risk and Resilience Leadership award to Tas Jalali of AC Transit and the Rising Leader in Public Service award to Nicole Guttridge of the City of Elk Grove and MISAC president. The formal program began with the national anthems of India and the United States.

Consul Abhishek Kumar Sharma of the Consulate General of India in San Francisco addressed the gathering, followed by remarks from Milpitas Mayor Carmen Montano, Fremont Mayor Raj Salwan, Union City Mayor Gary Singh, Newark Mayor Mike Hannon, Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor, and Sunnyvale Mayor Larry Klein. Singh was also recognized for his efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.

Nearly three dozen public officials attended, including city councilmembers, county supervisors, assemblymembers, and representatives from the offices of Sen. Dave Cortese and members of Congress Sam Liccardo and Ro Khanna, presenting commendations on behalf of their offices. Alameda County District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson and Santa Clara County District

Attorney Jeff Rosen spoke about efforts to address hate and crime.

Ambassador Shefali

Razdan Duggal was also honoured as the Pride of Kashmir during the program, joined on stage by IACF founder Jeevan Zutshi and Uphaar Kotru, national president of the Kashmiri Overseas Association.

The keynote address was delivered by former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who spoke about immigrant identity and civic pride. “We are all immigrants who came to America from somewhere. We are as American as anyone is. Let us take

pride in our roots and be great Americans,” he said. A recorded message from Rep. Ro Khanna highlighted Jeevan Zutshi's work and the organisation’s role in fostering community connections.

Founded in 1993 by Jeevan Zutshi, the organisation was established to encourage Indo-Americans to engage more fully in civic life and to build bridges across communities through dialogue, participation, and public service. The Unity Dinner, launched in 2002, has become a signature platform for community engagement.

The evening concluded with dinner and music.

GOPIO Sydney Northwest Hosts Sponsor Appreciation Barbecue at Bungarribee Reserve

On Sunday, May 31, the GOPIO Sydney Northwest Chapter organised a community barbecue at Bungarribee Reserve in Doonside to honour its sponsors. The event brought together chapter members, their families, and friends for an afternoon of gratitude, connection, and community pride.

Chapter members contributed homemade

dishes for a diverse and generous spread that highlighted the group's warmth. The sponsors in attendance—Mr & Mrs Kewal Kalra and Mr Garry Kalra were acknowledged for their ongoing support of the chapter’s initiatives and outreach efforts.

Harmohan Singh Walia, the Chapter President, expressed appreciation to all attendees for their continued involvement and

presence and extended a welcome to several new guests who joined the gathering. The new guests shared reflections on their journeys from India to Australia and praised GOPIO Sydney North West's work in supporting the Indian diaspora.

New guests introduced: - Gunjan Madan & Vinay Jhamb

- Sarita Kataria

- Dr. Neeraj Duggal &

Ritesh Duggal

- Gitesh Agarwal

- Rashmi Chauhan

An apology note was read for:

- Chandni Kapoor & Karan Kapoor

- Nickey Sehgal, Business Director, Channel 9, who was travelling in Nigeria

The afternoon featured lively conversations, storytelling, and laughter, with attendees enjoying the food and sunny weather amid the well-maintained grounds of Bungarribee Reserve. The relaxed setting provided an opportunity for attendees to mingle and strengthen community ties.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, signalling a successful celebration of unity, service, and the spirit of “caring and sharing” central to GOPIO.

Looking ahead, plans are underway for GOPIO Sydney Northwest’s signature event—the 17th Caring and Sharing Gala Dinner Night.

Scheduled for Saturday,

September 19, it will take place at the Sapphire Function Centre in Auburn and promises an evening of elegance, entertainment, and community celebration.

GOPIO COMMUNITY CONNECT LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

A SERIES OF FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS, WITH FORMAL INVITATION AND OFFICIAL PRESENCE FROM THE GOPIO INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

GOPIO Tema was in full force at the Lions club of Inala, Qld, Australia to congratulate Nayda Hernedez as the incoming president. Nayda has been a long-time volunteer of GOPIO Brisbane
GOPIO representation at Basava Samithi Jayanti in Brisbane
GOPIO and FICQ were both represented at Basava Samithi Jayanti – Councillor Sarah Hutton, third from right, also attended the event
Left Photo: Regional Director of Home Affairs, Mr Charlie Shandil, Julian Hill MP Minister, Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs, Assistant Minister for International Education, Umesh Chandra GOPIO International, Usha Chandra GOPIO Brisbane, Senator Paul Scarr – Senator for Queensland
GOPIO International represented at Greek community reception at State Library
The official party at the Greek reception, including Greek Consulate and honorary cpounsel for Qld

CONNECT LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

A SERIES OF FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS, WITH FORMAL INVITATION AND OFFICIAL PRESENCE FROM THE GOPIO INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers MP administers the citizenship oath at a ceremony organised by Islamic College of Brisbane
The newly sworn-in citizens pose with the ministers and VIPS after the citizenship ceremony at Islamic College of Brisbane
Dr Vilasari Tuicolo has been appointed as the new Honorary Consul for Fiji in Queensland. GOPIO International was represented at the official opening of the office
GOPIO team was well represented at the Lions Club of Inala, Qld, Australia, at the changeover dinner to congratulate Nayda Hernandez as the incoming president, who has been a long-time supporter and volunteer of GOPIO Brisbane
Umesh Chandra GOPIO International was a speaker at the Mother Language Celebration organised by Ethnic Schools of Qld
GOPIO was present at World Refugee Day organised by Multicultural Australia, the night also featured a movie on Rosemary, a tireless community worker

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