2025-07-15 - Queens, NY — July 15, 2025 — FUSIA’s 17th Annual Graduation & Inauguration Dinner took place at the historic Neir’s Tavern in Queens, NY—one of the oldest bars in the United States—celebrating 2025 J-1 exchange interns sponsored by FUSIA under the US Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program (BridgeUSA) and the community partners behind their success.

The evening’s highlight was the appearance of NYS Assemblyman David Weprin, a long-time supporter and host of the program whose leadership has been instrumental in advancing FUSIA’s mission in Queens and beyond. He personally awarded state citations and certificates to the interns, recognizing their direct contributions to local organizations and neighborhoods throughout New York. “These young people aren’t just here to learn—they’re stepping up, giving back, and becoming part of our city’s story,” he said. Weprin praised FUSIA’s 17 years of work in cultural exchange and community partnership, and reaffirmed his commitment to programs that strengthen New York by connecting global talent with local impact.

Commissioner Peter Koo, representing NYC Mayor Eric Adams, presented a special recognition on behalf of the Mayor’s Office. He spoke with interns about their roles in New York’s diverse cultural and business landscape and emphasized how international exchange programs fuel innovation and strengthen communities.

Further recognitions came from prominent civic leaders, including US Senator Charles Schumer, who issued a special citation to FUSIA, and Congresswoman Grace Meng, who awarded certificates of Special Congressional Recognition to FUSIA, host supervisors, and participating interns.

Among the honorees was Elizabeth Kay, recognized for her longstanding leadership and dedication to the program. Other awards went to Harbachan Singh, Esq. (Senior Advisor at FUSIA and Chair of the Queens Civic Congress), Cedric Dew (Jamaica YMCA), Ying Zhou (Tech Incubator at Queens College), Andrea C. Soto (Soto Law, PLLC), and Admerasia, Inc., for their commitment to mentoring and opportunity creation.

Proclamations and citations were also presented by NYS Senator John Liu, NYS Assembly Members Ron Kim, Grace Lee, and Jennifer Rajkumar, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and NYC Councilwoman Sandra Ung. Each affirmed the importance of strong community partnerships and the program’s role in connecting global talent with American opportunity.

Garrett Kah Chun NG, an intern from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, said, “Interning with Assemblywoman Grace Lee’s office gave me a real-world look at how American government works—and how strong communities get things done.”

Zafrul Azim NAZIR, another intern, reflected, “This internship pushed me to grow professionally and personally in a fast-moving environment.”

“I’m thankful to FUSIA and Aithent for the opportunity to intern in New York City,” added Yan Khang KOH from Singapore Institute of Technology. “I’ve sharpened my software development skills and learned what leadership and teamwork look like in a real business setting.”

FUSIA is a designated sponsor under the US Department of State’s J-1 Internship category, facilitating structured, field-specific internships for qualified postsecondary students and recent graduates from around the world. These short-term placements take place across a range of US organizations and sectors, in roles aligned with each participant’s academic background. These structured exchanges promote American values, foster innovation through international collaboration, and advance cultural diplomacy, workforce development, and mutual understanding.