6 days ago
NAFO hosts global conclave and award ceremony
NAFO Global, a distinguished socio-cultural organization with an active presence in Kuwait, UAE and India held its annual general meeting and global conclave along with a prestigious awards ceremony on July 20, 2025, at Hotel Travancore Court, Ernakulam, India. The event brought together members, dignitaries, and well-wishers from across the world in a celebration of collective vision, values, and achievements.
The presence of Venu Rajamony IFS, former Indian Ambassador to the Netherlands, as the chief guest lent immense grace and inspiration to the occasion. During the ceremony, NAFO Global conferred several of its most prestigious awards upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, achievements, and service in their respective fields. The NAFO Lifetime Achievement Award, the organization's highest honor, was presented to Padma Shri Aswathi Thirunal Gowri Lakshmi Bayi in recognition of her distinguished literary legacy and tireless efforts in safeguarding India's timeless cultural heritage and historical morals.
The NAFO Ratna Award was awarded to Dr Ramesh Anandadas, honoring his entrepreneurial success and unwavering dedication to social upliftment. Murali S Nair received the NAFO Sree Award for his outstanding community engagement and philanthropic leadership, reflecting the organization's appreciation for exemplary service aligned with its mission.
The NAFO Titans Award was bestowed upon Rajan Menon, BS Pillai, Vijayan Karayil, and ON Nandakumar, applauding their transformative leadership in social domains. The NAFO Stalwart Award recognized the steadfast service and dedication of Vijayakumar Menon, Rajashekharan Nair, and Aravind Menon, whose long-term support has greatly strengthened NAFO's activities.
Furthering its commitment to education and youth development, the NAFO Edu Awards 2025 were presented to Vidya Vijayakumar and Avantika Mahesh, lauding their academic brilliance and promising futures. A key highlight of the meeting was the inspiring audio-visual presentation of NAFO's social welfare projects under the 'Snehasparsham' initiative, and Astronomy Lab at Cotton Hill Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Thiruvananthapuram—an initiative aimed at sparking scientific curiosity and promoting education among students.
The event was presided over by MS Nair, with C Krishnakumar extending a warm welcome to attendees. Felicitations were delivered by Vijaya Krishnan, Rajeev Menon, ON Suresh Kumar, Srini C Nair, Sunitha Vijay, and Hareesh Kumar. NAFO Patrons Vijay K Nambiar IFS and Justice (Retd.) MR Hariharan Nair, along with Vijayan Nair and Aneesh Nair, conveyed their warm wishes and continued support via video messages.
Naveen Chingoram introduced the chief guest and the awardees, and Treasurer PS Krishnakumar concluded the event with a vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters. In the General Body meeting held alongside the event, elections were conducted for the Executive Committee for the 2025–2027 term. Vijayan Nair VR was elected as President, Murali S Nair as Secretary, and PS Krishnakumar as Treasurer. Other office-bearers include Vice President C Krishnakumar, Joint Secretary Vinayan Mangalasseri, and Joint Treasurer Pradeep Kumar TKV. A 14-member executive committee and a 7-member planning & advisory committee were also constituted to steer the organization forward. Justice (Retd.) MR Hariharan Nair, Vijay K Nambiar IFS, and Prince Adithya Varma will continue in their roles as patrons.
The successful conduct of the event was made possible through the tireless efforts of the organizing team, which included Rajeev Nair, ON Suresh Kumar, Sreekanth, Subbaraman AR, and Lakshmi Mahesh.
