United Way of Central Indiana and Outstanding Community Leaders Honored at BACI’s Annual Community Appreciation and Awards Ceremony
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — October 27, 2026 — The Burmese American Community Institute (BACI) honored United Way of Central Indiana (UWCI) and distinguished community leaders during its 2026 Annual Community Appreciation and Awards Ceremony and Fundraising Dinner, held in Indianapolis on October 27, 2026.
Under the theme “Celebrating Our Diversity and Collective Success: Embracing the Future of Unity for the Greater Good,” the annual event brought together community and faith leaders, elected officials, educators, business leaders, youth, families, and community partners to celebrate collective achievements, recognize outstanding contributions, and express appreciation to those who have supported BACI’s mission and vision over the years.
Honoring Outstanding Leaders and Community Partners
Four individuals and organizations received BACI’s 2026 awards in recognition of their exceptional achievements, leadership, service, and lasting contributions to the community:
- Outstanding Person of the Year in Education — Dr. Ngun Nei Kil, DO: Recognized for her outstanding academic achievements and educational excellence. A former student of BACI’s Upward College Program, Dr. Kil graduated from Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2026 and is now a resident physician at Franciscan Health. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and the opportunities made possible through community support. Watch Award Acceptance Speech on YouTube.
- Outstanding Community Leader of the Year — Siang Hnin Lian: Honored for his exceptional leadership, dedicated community service, and lasting positive impact on the Burmese American community and the broader Central Indiana community. Watch Award Acceptance Speech on YouTube.
- Business of the Year — Mang Tha Real Estate, LLC: Recognized for its business excellence, strong leadership, and meaningful contributions to the community through its services, generosity, and continued commitment to community development. Watch Award Acceptance Speech on YouTube.
- Community Partner of the Year — United Way of Central Indiana (UWCI): Honored for its outstanding partnership, leadership, and sustained commitment to strengthening communities through impactful and innovative collaborations. BACI expressed its deep appreciation for UWCI’s continued investment in education, economic opportunity, family well-being, and community development. Watch Keynote by Mr. Fred Payne on YouTube.
Celebrating Collective Achievements and Partnerships
In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Ro Ding, Chair of BACI’s Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of recognizing the people and partnerships that have contributed to the organization’s growth and success.
“Tonight is a special occasion to come together, celebrate our collective achievements, recognize outstanding contributions, and express our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has supported BACI’s mission and vision over the years,” said Dr. Ding.
Fred Payne, President and CEO of United Way of Central Indiana, delivered the keynote address and accepted the Community Partner of the Year Award on behalf of UWCI.
Reflecting on BACI’s remarkable journey since its founding in 2011, Payne highlighted the importance of vision, commitment, relationships, and collective action in overcoming challenges and achieving meaningful progress.
“When I think about organizations in our community that have truly succeeded and made a difference in people’s lives, they all have one thing in common: difficult, doable, and done,” Payne remarked.
He reflected on how BACI began with limited resources and faced significant challenges in its early years. Through strong partnerships, shared commitment, and a clear vision, what once seemed difficult became achievable, ultimately leading to lasting accomplishments.
Payne also highlighted BACI’s impact on more than 35,000 individuals since its founding and pointed to the inspiring journey of Dr. Ngun Nei Kil, one of BACI’s early college preparation students, who has now become a physician.
Her educational journey, he noted, illustrates how opportunities created through community investment can transform individual lives and inspire future generations. While her journey as a student has reached an important milestone, her contributions to the community are only beginning.
Building a Stronger Community and Creating a Home for ALL
Elaisa Vahnie, President and CEO of BACI, congratulated the honorees and expressed his appreciation for their leadership, achievements, and contributions to the broader community.
“We are proud to present these honors to outstanding individuals and organizations whose exceptional achievements, leadership, and dedication continue to make a meaningful and lasting impact on our shared community,” said Vahnie.
During the ceremony, Vahnie also shared BACI’s vision for its developing International Community Center in Indianapolis, an initiative dedicated to “Creating a HOME FOR ALL.” The center is envisioned as a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals and families from diverse backgrounds can access educational opportunities, community services, cultural activities, recreation, and resources to build stronger, more connected communities.
Reflecting on the community’s journey and the importance of gratitude, Vahnie added:
“We are profoundly grateful to the American people and our Hoosier neighbors for welcoming us and giving us the opportunity to build new lives in this land of freedom and opportunity. We deeply appreciate the many friends, community partners, and local, state, and national leaders whose support has helped create communities where people are welcomed, valued, and treated with dignity and respect.”
The evening also celebrated the remarkable progress of the Burmese American community in Central Indiana, including educational achievements, entrepreneurship, civic participation, and growing contributions to the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the region.
Through its annual Community Appreciation and Awards Ceremony, BACI reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships, expanding opportunities, celebrating diversity, and working together to build a more inclusive, thriving, and united community for all.
About the Burmese American Community Institute (BACI)
Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Indianapolis, the Burmese American Community Institute (BACI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a thriving, self-sufficient, sustainable, and integrated community through education, employment, advocacy, and community development.
Guided by its vision, “Education for All, a Stronger Community,” BACI provides comprehensive programs and services in education, employment, civic engagement, health and wellness, basic needs assistance, refugee resettlement, and community development. Since its founding, BACI has served more than 35,000 individuals, helping newcomers and families achieve self-sufficiency, educational success, and meaningful community integration.
Media Contact
Burmese American Community Institute (BACI)
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