Waldorf Astoria, Washington DC, November 9, 2024: The Waldorf Astoria in Washington DC radiated with hope, unity, and purpose on the evening of November 9, 2024, as the TCF-USA Washington, DC Chapter Annual Gala achieved a historic milestone. Under the unwavering leadership of Shimmi Kidwai, affectionately known as Shimmi Aapa, the gala raised an extraordinary $5,337,000—breaking all previous records. This remarkable total will fund the construction of 12 new schools in Pakistan, paving the way for thousands of children to access quality education and brighter futures.
Shimmi Aapa’s legacy as a pioneer in education advocacy began in 1997 when she launched the TCF mission from her home in Washington, D.C. Since then, her visionary leadership has transformed the Washington DC Chapter into a powerhouse of philanthropy, uniting a community of over 14,000 donors and supporters. With 49 schools already established and over 20,500 students benefiting from TCF programs, Shimmi Aapa’s tireless dedication has been the driving force behind this transformative movement.
This year’s record-breaking success is a testament to her unparalleled commitment and her ability to inspire extraordinary generosity. Shimmi Aapa’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the profound impact of education in transforming lives and communities.
The gala was a captivating celebration of culture and philanthropy, featuring a dynamic lineup of speakers and performers. Renowned author, lawyer, and New York Times writer Wajahat Ali delivered a powerful keynote address. Drawing on themes of identity, resilience, and community, Ali’s words deeply resonated with attendees, inspiring reflection and action.
The musical performances were a highlight of the evening. Shazia Manzoor, a beloved artist known for her soulful renditions of traditional and contemporary Punjabi songs, captivated the audience with her powerful voice. Joining her was Sanwal Esakhelvi, a talented singer celebrated for his performances on Pakistan’s Coke Studio. Together, they created a magical atmosphere, honoring Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and leaving the audience spellbound.
Behind the scenes, the event was a testament to teamwork and meticulous planning. Hasnain Aslam and Adnan Ahmed, the backbone of the Washington DC Chapter, led the organizational efforts with vision and precision. Their leadership set the tone for a seamless evening that exceeded all expectations.
Supporting them were committee members Azmat (Aji) Ahmed, Yasser Choudhry, and Sonny Khan, whose tireless dedication ensured every detail was executed flawlessly. Additional contributions from Habib Chotani, Saba Nawab, Sameer Qudsi, Sumer Alhinnawi, Nadia Rana, Hamza Rana, and Sheherbano Burki enriched the event, showcasing the strength of a united community.
The pinnacle of the evening was the electrifying donation session, where generosity flowed like never before. Attendees pledged their support with open hearts, culminating in a groundbreaking total of $5,337,000. This record-breaking achievement marked the highest fundraising total in the Washington DC Chapter’s 15-year history, a testament to the shared commitment of donors to TCF’s mission.
These funds will be instrumental in building 12 new schools across Pakistan, offering underprivileged children access to quality education and the chance to break free from the cycle of poverty. Ambassador Masood Khan lauded the attendees’ generosity and highlighted the critical role of the Pakistani-American community in empowering future generations through education.
As the applause echoed through the grand hall of the Waldorf Astoria, the spotlight rightly rested on Shimmi Aapa. Her extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment have transformed dreams into realities for countless children. She embodies the true spirit of philanthropy, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
The 2024 TCF Gala was not just an event—it was a celebration of unity, culture, and the transformative power of education. Thanks to the vision of Shimmi Aapa, the dedication of the organizing team, and the unparalleled generosity of donors, thousands of children in Pakistan now have a brighter future ahead.
As the evening drew to a close, one undeniable truth remained: when a community comes together with purpose and passion, the possibilities are endless. This historic night will forever stand as a testament to the power of education to change lives.
