Defying - 40°F: Chicago’s Deep Freeze Becomes the World’s Warmest Stage of Global Achievement & Couture Brilliance

Frozen City, Burning Legacy – Chicago’s Epic Night of Borders, Beauty & Big Dreams

International Achievers Awards & International Fashion Gala 2026

Chicago, IL: Braving one of Chicago’s harshest winter nights in decades, the International Achievers Awards & International Fashion Gala 2026 unfolded as an evening of extraordinary warmth, elegance, and global inspiration under the poised stewardship of well-known anchor Prachi Jaitly, who served as the Master of Ceremony for the night.

The event was spearheaded by Meena Israni, Founder of Being Muskaan Events, a Dubai-based company renowned for curating high-impact, large-scale events such as the Gulf Achievers Awards, Golf Achievers Award, and MasterChef Golf. Known for combining prestige with purpose, Meena has consistently brought together leaders, achievers, and changemakers under platforms that celebrate excellence, leadership, and community impact. The Chicago gala marked her debut major event in the United States, reflecting her expanding global vision.

From the very first welcome, Prachi Jaitly set the tone with grace, authority, and infectious energy—seamlessly guiding a distinguished gathering of global leaders, visionaries, artists, achievers, media representatives, and international delegates through an unforgettable celebration of excellence. During the evening, she duly recognized the efforts of Founder Meena Israni for envisioning and executing an event of such magnitude, bringing together achievers from across the globe under one shared purpose.

“Taking on a project of this scale—bringing together so many achievers under one shared vision—is no small feat. I wholeheartedly congratulate Founder Meena Israni on the tremendous success of her debut event in the United States and wish her the very best for many impactful years ahead,” said Prachi Jaitly.

The presence of esteemed dignitaries added immense gravitas to the occasion. Chief Guests included Jawaharial Williams, Democratic member of the Illinois House of Representatives (10th District), recognized for his steadfast advocacy in healthcare access, economic opportunity, infrastructure, and public safety, and Harry Benton, Representative of the 97th District, whose journey from union ironworker to public servant embodied grassroots empowerment and resilience.

Guests of Honor brought equally compelling legacies. Ajeet Singh, President of Midway Business Broker and the Indian American Business Council, was celebrated for scaling his firm from $5 million to $87 million in sales and for spearheading the historic #ISTANDFORPEACE event at the UIC Forum that united over 3,000 attendees. Joining him was Iftekhar Shareef, the world’s first Overseas Citizen of India, honored for decades of diplomatic, cultural, and global bridge-building contributions.

Fashion took center stage as a powerful expression of culture and identity. Amitha Fashions, led by visionary Kavitha Rao, showcased an Indo-Western and bridal collection seamlessly blending Kanjivaram, Paithani, and Banarasi silks with heritage craftsmanship and modern silhouettes. Suchita Pandey presented timeless Indian elegance through Gota Patti, Chikankari, Bandhani, Leheriya, and Danka work, while Neena Fashion’s “Shining Stars” collection delivered bold, contemporary narratives woven through traditional Indian textiles.

The program was further elevated by stirring performances. Minoo Vasudevan’s expressive dance captivated audiences with grace and emotion, while S. Shubham, honored as Best Bollywood Playback Singer, delivered a heartfelt live performance. His self-taught musical journey—from the age of eight to viral devotional acclaim with “Madine Chale” on 104.5 Vibe FM—resonated deeply with attendees.

The awards ceremony honored a constellation of global changemakers whose impact resonated profoundly. Tatha secured the Best Emerging Global Skincare Brand award for Divita Kanoria’s revolutionary plant stem cell innovation rooted in personal healing and purpose. Prachi Jaitly was honored with Excellence in Global Media & Arts for coverage of milestones including the G20 and Ram Mandir. Canadian International Scholars School, under the leadership of Gurinder S. Saini, earned Best School for Global Excellence and Diversity, while ROVIS Management Solutions was recognized as Best Global Management & Business Solutions Provider for driving transformation across more than 23 countries since 2013.

Amjadullah Khan received the Voice of the People Award for his grassroots justice work as a two-time Corporator and host of Praja Darbar. Hafsa was honored with Best Influencer of the Year, recognized for her impact as a TEDx speaker, PhD scholar, entrepreneur, and advocate for women-led businesses and community empowerment.

Additional honors included Rani’s Nails & Spa receiving Celebrity Salon of the Year under Umaima’s leadership; Wise Minds Group awarded Best Global Business Support Solutions Provider, led by Abhilasha Goyal; Sunny Anand recognized as Businessman of the Year for the global expansion of AlBraikiExports; Mauj Entertainment receiving Breakthrough Entertainment Company, led by Zaki Khan; and Regal Jewels awarded Best Jewelry Brand of the Year, celebrating over 35 years of legacy.

Crowned honors included Dr. Reshmi Nair Upreti as Mrs. Intellectual Diva, and Sridevi Kammiti as Woman of Substance & Walk, recognized for perseverance and humanitarian dedication.

Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman and Founder of Asian Media USA, shared:

“This is the first time that so many accomplished individuals have come together under one roof to celebrate each other’s journeys. This stands among the most prestigious award ceremonies Asian Media USA has ever covered, and we are proud to be associated with it. We look forward to many more years of collaboration ahead.”

Show Director Manoj Shetty, a Dubai-based fashion icon with titles including Mr. UAE International 2021–22, masterfully guided the evening’s flow with 19 years of runway expertise. Red carpet host Shweta Chinnari Paris, a Chicago Fashion Week alum, Mrs. India Illinois, and Woman of the Year, brought star power and warmth to every interaction.

The event’s brilliance was amplified by stellar partners including Asian Media USA, Khaleej Times, IUSA Media; 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, this gathering united politicians, entrepreneurs, artists, educators, and cultural ambassadors in a shared celebration of excellence. It was not just an event it was a powerful reminder that passion, vision, and unity can overcome even the harshest conditions.

Braving one of Chicago’s fiercest winter nights to witness such radiant achievements was truly moving. From political trailblazers to fashion visionaries and community champions, every honoree reminded us that real impact cuts through any adversity. Asian Media USA is immensely proud to have partnered in amplifying these voices and stories. Gratitude to all who made this magical evening possible your belief turned freezing temperatures into unforgettable fire. The journey continues, and we’re excited for what’s next.