08/25/2026
# FIWNA Successfully Celebrates Its 16th Anniversary, the 32nd International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, and “Open Mic for Caregivers”
The **Federation of Indigenous Women of Nepal in America (FIWNA)** successfully celebrated its **16th Anniversary** together with the **32nd International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples** and a special **“Open Mic for Caregivers”** program. The event brought together community leaders, members, supporters, caregivers, and well-wishers for a meaningful day of reflection, recognition, cultural connection, creativity, and joyful expression.
The first session focused on the celebration of **FIWNA’s 16-year journey** and the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. Community leaders representing different organizations joined the program and extended their warm congratulations and best wishes to FIWNA on this important occasion. Among the distinguished community representatives were **Suman Thamsuhang, General Secretary of the Federation of Indigenous People of Nepal in America (FIPNA),** and **Indra Tamang of the Tamang Society of America (TSA)**, along with other respected community members and supporters.
During the anniversary session, **FIWNA’s founder and current President, Indira Chongbang**, presented a comprehensive report highlighting the organization’s **16 years of service, activities, achievements, partnerships, and continued commitment to empowering Indigenous women and strengthening Indigenous identity, culture, leadership, and community engagement in the United States**. The presentation reflected on FIWNA’s growth over the years and recognized the dedication of its members, volunteers, advisors, partners, and supporters who have contributed to the organization’s journey.
The **Chief Guest, Pama Rai**, congratulated President Chongbang and the entire FIWNA team for their continued dedication and community service. In her remarks, she highlighted the importance and value of the educational, awareness-building, cultural, and community-focused programs that FIWNA has consistently organized. She encouraged the organization to continue creating meaningful platforms that bring people together, strengthen women’s voices, and contribute to the well-being of the broader community.
The second session featured the special **“Open Mic for Caregivers”** program, which became one of the most joyful and inspiring highlights of the event. Approximately **15 presenters** took part in the open mic and shared a wide variety of talents, creativity, and personal expression. Some participants recited heartfelt **poems**, while others performed **songs**, delivered meaningful **speeches**, shared personal reflections, stories, and other creative presentations.
What made the session especially meaningful was the opportunity for participants to reveal talents that are often hidden in their everyday lives. Many caregivers spend most of their time serving their families and communities, leaving little opportunity to express their own creativity and individuality. The Open Mic created a welcoming and supportive space where they could step forward, share their voices, and celebrate their abilities.
The performances reflected a beautiful range of emotions, experiences, and talents. From poetry and music to inspirational speeches and spontaneous expressions, each presenter brought something unique to the stage. The session was not only entertaining, but also empowering, as it reminded everyone that every individual carries a special gift, story, and talent within them.
The atmosphere was filled with **joy, laughter, appreciation, encouragement, and positive energy** as participants supported one another. The program created a strong sense of connection and belonging and gave caregivers an opportunity to relax, celebrate, and be recognized not only for the important roles they play in supporting others, but also for their own voices, creativity, and personal identities.
The entire event was skillfully **hosted by FIWNA Secretary Indira Rai**, who guided both sessions and helped maintain a warm, engaging, and inclusive atmosphere throughout the program.
In her closing remarks, **President Indira Chongbang** expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest, community leaders, participating organizations, presenters, caregivers, FIWNA executive members, volunteers, supporters, partners, and everyone who contributed to making the celebration meaningful and successful. She emphasized that FIWNA’s achievements over the past 16 years have been possible through collective effort, cooperation, and the continued trust and support of the community.
The program concluded with a renewed commitment to continue FIWNA’s mission of **empowering Indigenous women, promoting leadership and human rights, preserving Indigenous culture and identity, supporting caregivers and families, and building stronger partnerships within the community**.
**FIWNA extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who joined us in celebrating this important milestone. Together, we will continue to honor our journey, discover and celebrate the talents within our community, empower women, and create a more inclusive and hopeful future for generations to come.**
FIWNA Successfully Celebrates Its 16th Anniversary, the 32nd International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, and “Open Mic for Caregivers”