The fifth annual convention of the Association of Bhutanese in America (ABA) ended successfully on 6th July.
A statement issued by Chairman Dr Purna Chhetri mentioned that the welcoming of the guests from long distances was done on the July 4 at the chairman’s residence with the welcome dinner.
The guests that were attending had travelled from places such as Canada, Missouri, DC, New York, Iowa, Colorado, and New Mexico, according to the statement.
“There was renewal of friendship. It gave hope to bridge the gap in generations, and it provided many people the opportunity to work as a team,” said Dr Chhetri.
Addressing the convention on the second day, guest speaker Sydel Maher, who works for USAID as an administrative officer for overseas operations, highlighted the ways to strengthen the organization.
Dr Chhetri further said that the convention also saw a rigorous workshop and group discussion based on the needs of the community.
The workshop is said to have attended by around 80 guests. It was essentially a brain storming session. The board meeting followed it.
Meanwhile, the final convention on July 6 took place at the Ethington Theater of the Grand Canyon University, inaugurated by Charles Shipman, the State Refugee Coordinator followed by Hari Acharya’s presentation on ABA activities.
Then, the three guest speakers we invited spoke, said the statement.
“They were very knowledgeable who had many years of experience in their own respective topics. Their message was very simple and eloquent, yet helpful to the Bhutanese.”
One of the speakers, Dr Martin Krepcho, who is a behavior scientist, spoke on psychosocial issues and how to overcome depression while Dr. Ambika Adhikari, Faculty Associate of ASU spoke on social integration, economic well-being and cultural preservation.
Similarly, Joanne Morales, the Director of Catholic Charities spoke on refugee programs and path of self-sufficiency.
While, Chairman Chettri gave a vote of thanks on behalf of the ABA and organizing committee to all delegates, guests and the audience.
“The slide show that was presented was about Bhutanese culture, and examples of life in the refugee camp and memoirs of previous ABA conventions. There were over 300 attendees,” added he.
The cultural program on the closing session was very exciting and entertaining and many people were waiting patiently for a long time.
Other activities during the conviction included live songs, and fashion show, among others.
