A Heartwarming Evening: HMI’s Community Dinner
On a warm summer evening in Riverside, HMI hosted a community dinner that brought together friends, families, and neighbors. The event was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of unity, culture, and connection.
The evening began with beautiful Afghan music provided by Amena, one of HMI’s board members. The music set a welcoming tone as guests arrived and were greeted by the delicious aroma of Afghan cuisine prepared by Friba, HMI’s Cultural Liaison. The food was a highlight, with traditional dishes that everyone enjoyed.
Dr. Selin Nielsen took a moment to thank everyone for coming, expressing heartfelt appreciation for each participant. Her words highlighted the importance of community and the strength found in coming together.
The night included a fun quiz game about the refugee community. Everyone participated eagerly, and the winner took home a tray of delicious baklava. The game was a great way to learn new things and share some laughs.
Everyone sat together at long tables, chatting and sharing stories under the stars. This communal setting fostered a sense of togetherness and allowed for meaningful conversations. HMI also debuted a new video showcasing their local and global impact, which was well-received by the audience.
Guests had the chance to share their thoughts and experiences by passing around the microphone. Many spoke about the positive impact HMI has had on their lives and their admiration for the newcomer community. These personal stories added depth to the evening and highlighted the importance of support and solidarity.
The night ended with vibrant Afghan dances, encouraging everyone to join in the fun. As a thank you, each guest received a small gift to take home, a token of appreciation from HMI.
The dinner was attended by notable figures, including Congressman Mark Takano, Dean Marko Princevac from UC Riverside, and other local community leaders. Tamana, a newcomer who had arrived in the U.S. just two weeks ago, was also present, symbolizing the welcoming nature of the community.
The community dinner was a reminder of the power of unity and the importance of supporting one another. HMI remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive community. This dinner was just one step towards that goal, and there will be more events to bring people together.
If you missed this dinner, we hope to see you at the next one. Stay tuned for future events where we can continue to celebrate our diverse community and strengthen our bonds.