Wishwas Fundraiser hosted by Celebrity Power Couple, Ranjana and Naeem Khan, a huge success!

Wishwas, a non-profit organization held their annual cocktail soiree in New York City on October 28^th, 2014 to raise funds for their charity. Celebrity fashion designer Naeem Khan and his wife, jewelry designer Ranjana Khan helped support the cause by hosting a spectacular fundraiser at their fashion studio in Manhattan.  The evening raised funds for the charity via ticket sales and auction items. Wishwas is a New York City based nonprofit organization focusing on two initiatives; empowering low-income immigrant women assimilate within society and training them in vocational skills to make them financially self-sufficient.

The gala was orchestrated by boutique PR firm, Neerja Public Relations, and managed by Rashi Shyam of Event Nirvana. Over 200 guests, including Congresswoman Grace Meng came out to support Wishwas and enjoyed an evening of cocktails, fashion and shopping via the elaborate silent auction.  Auctions up for bid included a range of jewelry from Board Chair for Wishwas, and noted jewelry designer, Ranjana Khan, as well as accessories from Exclusively.In and a Five Star Luxury Johnnie Walker VIP Tasting from Le Malt, amongst many other things. The most coveted items at the gala were 2 tickets to Naeem Khan’s runway show at Mercedes Benz Fashion week, and a dinner date with the designer himself.  Additionally Naeem Khan matched the highest bid, making that single auction item worth $7,000!

“I am so touched and honored for the support Wishwas has received from our community. The funds we raised at our gala will help us a great deal to better the lives of so many women.”

says Wishwas Executive Director, Nivedita Chandrappa.

Sonali Skandan, mesmerized the guests with a beautiful traditional dance piece, while The SA Dance Company showcased a breath-taking performance inspired by Indian folk, classical, and Bollywood dance. The beautiful Manhattan studio was donned with a fashion display from Naeem Khan’s spring 2015 collection. Naeem Khan is an Indian-born American fashion designer who has styled celebrities such as Beyonce, Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, Debra Messing and many others. Another fan of Naeem Khan’s exquisite designs are First Lady Michelle Obama, who stunned in a NK collection at the 2013 Oscars!

The evening was catered by Devi Restaurant and desserts were sponsored by Chocal8Kiss. Wine 34, Fair Trade and 1947 Beer, provided cocktails for the evening.  The event was hosted by human rights activist and speaker, Jessica Minhas. Official photography for the evening was captured by Asim Farooki Photography.