HOUSTON, TX — In a city where more than 140 languages are spoken and cultures from around the globe intersect, finding a place means more than discovering somewhere to live. It means finding acceptance, opportunity, community, and that unmistakable feeling of belonging.

On Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Houston will celebrate that powerful human connection during its annual America’s Table Breakfast, presented in partnership with IM Houston, formerly Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston.

Houston Style Magazine proudly continues its tradition of supporting programs that celebrate diversity, strengthen community relationships, and champion inclusion as a media sponsor of this meaningful gathering.

America’s Table reflects a longstanding national commitment to promoting mutual respect, dignity, and understanding. In a world where differences sometimes dominate headlines, AJC Houston offers a refreshing reminder: Our unique backgrounds do not have to divide us. They can become the very threads that strengthen Houston’s remarkable cultural fabric.

This year, four extraordinary Houstonians will share personal journeys that prove the American dream is not simply about where we come from, but what we build together.

Four Remarkable Journeys. One Extraordinary City.

Sheroo Mukhtiar — A Journey From Mumbai to Meaningful Service

More than three decades ago, Sheroo Mukhtiar arrived from Mumbai, India, carrying ambition, determination, and limited resources. Pursuing graduate studies in social work, she transformed the challenges of adapting to a new country into a lifelong dedication to serving others. Today, as president and CEO of IM Houston, she leads programs supporting seniors, refugees, and vulnerable families, demonstrating how one person's opportunity can become countless opportunities for others.

Linda Toyota — Transforming Historic Injustice Into Community Leadership

For third-generation Japanese American Linda Toyota, the meaning of belonging is deeply personal. Her parents experienced incarceration in American internment camps during World War II, a painful chapter that helped shape her commitment to inclusion and civic engagement. Throughout her career, Toyota has championed cross-cultural understanding, nonprofit partnerships, and community empowerment, reminding us that history's hardships can inspire tomorrow's progress.

Rose Carline Castel — Rebuilding Hope, One Opportunity at a Time

Born in Haiti, Rose Carline Castel journeyed through the Dominican Republic before arriving in Houston with her daughter in search of safety and stability. Through IM Houston's refugee resettlement services and community support, she began rebuilding her family's future. Today, Castel is pursuing pharmacy technician certification at Texas Healthtech Institute, proving that courage and determination can open doors to new possibilities.

Rafee Komeizi — An Iranian American Dream Rooted in Houston

Rafee Komeizi's family left Iran during a period of profound uncertainty, seeking stability and opportunity. Through perseverance, education, and entrepreneurship, he established a successful life in Houston. Now co-owner of Kiani Realty alongside his wife, Kiani, he represents the entrepreneurial determination that continues to enrich Houston's economic and cultural landscape.

Where Differences Meet, Community Grows

The morning's program will be emceed by Rabbi Edwin Goldberg, an AJC board member and spiritual leader at Congregation Beth Shalom of The Woodlands.

For Houston Style Magazine, America's Table represents something worth celebrating: Houston is strongest when everyone has a place at the table.

And perhaps that is the most beautiful thing about our city. You don't have to share the same birthplace, language, or life experiences to share a common future.

Event Details: Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.

Registration: $18 per person

Registration Deadline: Monday, October 26, 2026

Location: Provided following verified registration

Reserve Your Place:

https://donate.ajc.org/americastable