aACO GALA
Gala at the MuseuM:
THE EVOLUTION OF OUR COMMUNITY
The Afghan-American Community Organization hosted the 2nd Annual Gala at the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles, California on November 11, 2023.
Thank you to all of our supporters who attended and participated in the evening’s events. We provided a (physical) space for the community to gather, programming that lightened our hearts and inspired hope, and opportunities that directly give back and assist our community - both in the U.S. and Afghanistan. Together, we raised over $120,000.
With the generosity of our community, we will be dedicating 20% of all Gala proceeds to the AACO x Uplift Afghanistan Fund’s home-construction projects in Herat.
If you were unable to attend the Gala, you can support AACO from afar by donating here.
2023 HONOREE & HEADLINER
ABOUT MOE SHALIZI
Moe Shalizi is a public figure and philanthropist committed to the success of our community. In August 2021, Shalizi launched a campaign to fund humanitarian aid projects in Afghanistan and resettlement efforts in the U.S. Through this campaign, Shalizi raised over $700,000 and supported programs across nine different organizations to fulfill the immediate needs of Afghans and our growing diaspora.
Shalizi is also a prominent Afghan-American in the music and entertainment industry as a manager and entrepreneur. With a keen eye for talent and a passion for music, he founded The Shalizi Group, his management and entertainment company. Shalizi has successfully represented and worked with some of the biggest names in hip hop and the electronic dance music scene, such as Marshmello, Alesso, Afrojack, YG, G-Herbo, Southside and more. His innovative approach to artist management and brand development has made him a respected and influential figure in the industry. Shalizi continues to shape the music world, contributing to the success of both emerging artists and established acts.
ABOUT HABIB QADERI
Habib Qaderi is a renowned Afghan artist, who has captivated audiences with his mesmerizing music, transcending across borders to earn international fame. Born in Afghanistan, Habib's family migrated in 1983 to escape war and devastation, a shared experience among many in our diaspora. In 1985, they found a new home in Los Angeles, California, where he advanced his education in Management Information Systems. However, his passion and dedication to music led him to pursue a different career path and today is an iconic figure in the Afghan community.
Habib's musical odyssey took off with his debut album, "Chadar-e-Gulnaar," in 1994. This album was a stepping stone for a prolific career that later gained full recognition with the release of "Golden Dream" in 2001. This breakthrough album catapulted him to stardom, with its hit singles resonating across Afghanistan's TV and radio stations. Over the years, Habib continued to enchant audiences with his music, his profound "Mehmaan-e-Yaar" album, and an iconic DVD project, "Journey," which showcased his talent and commitment to Afghan entertainment culture. His dedication to music and cultural enrichment has made him an influential figure, receiving accolades and awards for his contributions to the Afghan music scene. Habib Qaderi remains an inspiring artist and an emblem of the Afghan diaspora's creative and resilient spirit.
2022 Gala: A Night in Afghanistan
Click here to learn more about our first annual Gala event.