NEW YORK (TIP): Dr. Martin Luther King Visionary Awards were presented on February 27 at a Human Rights Commission Gala honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. & Black History Month. A number of New Yorkers were presented the awards for their services to community. 12 persons received Lifetime Achievement award while 11 persons were presented award for community service. Among other awards were 3 Humanitarian awards, 2 Wellness awards , besides 2 Medals of Honor awards.
Among the awardees was Malini Shah, a well-known personality of New York. She is a prominent community leader and Activist who is currently President of her diamond company, Difference Inc. In addition to running a successful jewelry business, she is also the Founder of Nritya Kala Kendra Inc., and Indo-American Arts and Cultural Forum. Co-Founder, Indian American Association of Queens. Co-Chair Felicia’s Promise, Vice President of the Center for the Women of New York.
Malini has dedicated over 40 years as a cultural ambassador to many organizations across the world. Malini is involved with many significant New York City cultural institutions. Her passion for helping others and community service Volunteered and Served as a Community and Cultural Liaison for Council Member Paul A. Vallone. She also volunteered and served as representative for NYC Speaker Melissa Mark-Vivirito, NYC Speaker Corey Johnson to the Museum of Arts and Design Board of Trustees in Manhattan and continues to volunteer and serve as a representative for the NYC Speaker to the Museum of Arts and Design. Malini also serves on The Clinton Democratic Club, Executive Board as Secretary and Membership Chair , she also sits on Board of Directors as Vice President for – Center for Women of New York and is a member of Queens Council on the Arts and Women’s Jewelry Association.
Malini has received many prestigious awards such as “Jewel of India Award. City Council Citations, Positive Indo-American Image Award, Citation from Councilmember Peter Koo for “Recognition and honor for years of Service to the community”, “Leadership in the Arts and Culture from Assemblyman Nick Perry, “Exceptional women Award”, Citations from New York City Council”, Outstanding Entrepreneurial Leadership Award in recognition of Extraordinary Achievements and commitment to Strengthening Economic Development as well as Innovation in New York from Deputy Majority Leader Assemblyman Phil Ramos to name a few. Most recently Malini has been awarded “Queens Ambassador Award 2016″ (January 26th, 2017) from Times Ledger Newspapers.
On March 2nd, 2017, she was honored for exceptional Community Service “celebrating women leaders on International women’s day” by the Society of Foreign Consuls at Bohemian National Hall. She also received citation from Hon’ble George Maragos office of comptroller Nassau County, New York as an outstanding individual who renders significant contributions for the enhancement of our community. “Outstanding Mother Award” by C.A.P.S.C, Hind Ratan Award for Outstanding Service,
On April 29th 2017 she received “Women of Distinction in Leadership Award” from Center for the Women of New York . Certificate of Congressional Recognition from Congressman Thomas R. Suozzi. Received Bayside- Whitestone Lions Club Community Service Award May 7th , 2018.
She received recognition on 19th July 2018 as South Asian Community Leader of the Year.
Recipient of many citations, Malini has received a whole lot of them.
New York State Assembly Citation from Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein.
Certificate of Merit from Senator Toby Ann Stavisky.
City Council Citation from Council Member Barry S. Grodenchik.
City Council Citation from Council Member Paul A. Vallone.
New York State Assembly Citation from Assembly woman Nily Rozic .
Received certificate of Recognition from Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. NYC Proclamation in “celebration of South Asian Leadership” for her outstanding service to our community”. Honorable Judge Andrea C. Phoenix was the Keynote Speaker while Dr.Nayeema Khan and Mireille Jumeau were guest speakers . Keria Blue,Nassau County Human rights Commissioner was the Master of Ceremonies. The event was hosted by Rev.Emmanuel Asse ,Executive Director Lincoln-King Center