SRINAGAR, JULY 16: CHINAR International, held its Annual Patrons Meeting here at Amar Singh Club, Srinagar. The event brought together patrons, Board of Directors, key stakeholders, partners and supporters to review the progress of the past year and discuss the roadmap for the year ahead.
Working on the empowerment of vulnerable children, marginalized youth and distressed communities through education and socio-economic programs, CHINAR International held the meeting to showcase key achievements, ongoing initiatives, and the impact the organization has made in various communities across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr Zahida Shah, senior doctor and CHINAR board member, who expressed heartfelt appreciation for the continued support from the patrons and community members. In her address, she emphasized on the need of local support in driving the organization’s mission forward.
“So much has been done on the ground and yet so little recognized in the community. We feel the necessity to introduce this organization into the local community. Our community has to recognize and adopt this organization so that its work continues uninterrupted,” said Dr. Zahida.
During the meeting, the Founder and Chairman CHINAR International, Irfan Shahmiri gave a comprehensive presentation followed by several impactful and thought provoking video stories that highlighted the positive difference the organization has made in the lives of individuals and communities it served. “We don’t promote charity and relief. We believe in empowerment, self-reliance and transformation. We work towards uplifting communities so that they take charge of their problems,” he said.
The Chairman gave the example of Warwan Valley Transformation Project where the organization devised a comprehensive plan to develop and transform the medieval and remote valley of Warwan with focus on children, youth, education and communities, “earlier the community people wanted relief from us but now they want education of their children. That is the kind of transformation we believe in and that inspires us to do more.”
Looking ahead, Shahmiri shared the plan of action for the upcoming year which included new collaborations, expanded outreach, and strengthened community engagement. The meeting concluded with an interactive Q&A session and an open discussion, fostering transparency and collaborative thinking among stakeholders.
A profound vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Mushtaq Margoob, senior Psychiatrist of the valley and CHINAR board member. In his concluding statement he emphasized on the importance of collective effort in taking the mission of CHINAR forward.