It is with deep sadness that AFICS/NY announces the passing of its lifetime member, Mrs. Neylan Ayse Bali, who passed away at her home in New York on April 3, 2025. Mrs. Bali was a distinguished former Director of the United Nations Security Council Affairs Division, having served the Organization with dedication for over 33 years. She was widely respected and admired for her professionalism, integrity, and her unwavering commitment to women's equality and global peace. The l

15 January 1944 - 27 November 2025 A leading scholar and advocate of democratic governance and a dear friend has passed. A few days ago I learned that my close friend Dr. Shabbir Cheema passed away on Thanksgiving Day. His wife Sherry and other family members were with him. Blessings to Sherry, their children, and grandchildren. I am filled with gratitude for Shabbir’s life of kindness and world service. Here are a few highlights about Shabbir’s remarkable life from the summa

October 15 1939 – February 22, 2025 With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved Jamna. A loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She brought warmth, wisdom, and kindness to all who knew her. Please join us as we gather to celebrate her remarkable life, share memories, and honor her enduring spirit. Parkside Memorial Chapels (Funeral Service) Thursday, 2/27/25, 12 pm 114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375 All Souls Chapel and Cremato

22 November 1937 – 5 February 2025 It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the death of our friend and colleague, Mary Lynn Hanley, who passed away on Wednesday, 5 February 2025, following a period of declining health. Mary Lynn, who faithfully served AFICS/NY as Editor of the AFICS/NY Bulletin from her appointment on 1 March 1988 until her retirement in 2021, is remembered fondly by those who knew her as a critical reader and a meticulous editor. Forme

5 April 1935 - 25 January 2025 Ajit M. Banerjee began his distinguished career at the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA). Later, he became a management training consultant for the Punjab Administrative Reform Commission and the Indian Government. His journey eventually led him to the United Nations (UN), where he made significant contributions to public administration and reform on a global scale. Dr. Banerjee held several pivotal positions at the UN during his

Retirement often brings the idea of slowing down, but staying active is key to enjoying this new chapter fully. Many people hear doctors talk about "physical activity" and "exercise" as if they mean the same thing. Understanding the difference between these two can help retirees maintain independence, improve health, and find joy in daily life. This post explains how movement and structured workouts each play a role in aging well and how you can balance both for a healthier r

Virtual communication has become a key part of daily life for many people. Whether connecting with friends, attending classes, or collaborating on projects, video calls and online learning platforms are now essential tools. Yet, many still find these technologies challenging or underutilized. This guide offers practical advice to help you communicate clearly, stay engaged, and make the most of virtual interactions. Video call interface with participants, image-prompt 'Close-u

Travel can open new doors at any age, but for seniors, choosing the right destinations and planning for comfort can make all the difference. Exploring new places should be enjoyable and stress-free, not tiring or overwhelming. This guide highlights some of the best travel spots suited for seniors and offers practical tips to ensure every trip is comfortable and memorable. A calm garden path at a senior-friendly resort, perfect for leisurely strolls Best Travel Destinations fo

Eating well supports many parts of your body, but focusing on heart health, bone strength, and immune support can make a big difference in your overall wellness. Choosing the right foods helps protect your heart, build strong bones, and keep your immune system ready to fight off illness. This post shares balanced meal ideas that combine these benefits in tasty, easy-to-make dishes. Salmon and greens bowl supporting heart and bone health Meals That Support Heart Health The hea

Staying socially active is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Yet, many people find it challenging to maintain connections, especially with busy schedules or when physical distance separates them from friends and family. Joining clubs, attending classes, and using digital tools offer practical ways to build and sustain social networks. This post explores how you can use these options to stay connected, meet new people, and enrich your social life. Book club meetin

Volunteering offers more than just a way to fill time. It creates a sense of purpose and builds connections that enrich both the volunteer and the community. Whether you prefer hands-on roles nearby or flexible online options, there are many ways to contribute meaningfully. This post highlights diverse volunteer opportunities that bring people together and foster a stronger sense of belonging. Volunteers planting flowers in a community garden Local Volunteer Roles That Create

Retirement marks a major life transition, bringing freedom from work but also new financial challenges. Without a clear plan for budgeting and managing savings, retirees risk running out of money or facing unexpected expenses. This post offers practical guidance on how to handle your finances after retirement, helping you maintain stability and enjoy your golden years with confidence. Senior couple managing post-retirement budget Understand Your Income Sources and Expenses Th

Keeping the brain sharp is essential for maintaining mental clarity, memory, and overall well-being. Cognitive health supports daily functioning and quality of life, especially as we age. Fortunately, there are practical ways to boost brain power through simple activities like puzzles, reading, learning new skills, and practicing mindfulness. This post explores effective strategies to support cognitive health with actionable tips you can start using today. Solving a colorful

Maintaining strength, balance, and flexibility is essential for overall health and mobility, especially as we age or manage joint issues. Many traditional workouts can strain sensitive joints, leading to discomfort or injury. Fortunately, there are practical, joint-friendly exercises that support physical fitness without causing harm. Walking, swimming, and chair yoga stand out as accessible, effective options that protect your joints while improving your body’s capabilities.

AFICS New York President, Darshak Shah noted "I am pleased to share with you our Fall/Winter 2025/2026 edition of the AFICS/NY Bulletin Vol. 55 ◆ No. 1, dedicated to the theme of Membership—what it means in retirement and how our members contribute to the life and strength of AFICS/NY."

It is with deep sorrow that we remember and honour the life of Sandra Haji-Ahmed, a distinguished colleague, friend, mentor, and coach. It is with deep sorrow that we remember and honour the life of Sandra Haji-Ahmed, a distinguished colleague, friend, mentor, and coach. She passed away peacefully on 26 February 2025 after an illness. With over 30 years of experience, Ms. Haji-Ahmed held pivotal roles at the United Nations and UNICEF, where she guided diverse teams and shaped

Effective communication is a skill that can significantly enhance our personal and professional lives. Whether you are engaging in a casual conversation with a friend or delivering a presentation at work, the ability to convey your thoughts clearly and listen actively is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore the various aspects of effective communication, its importance, and practical tips to improve your skills. A cozy coffee shop where people are enjoying conversation

In a world increasingly affected by climate change, pollution, and resource depletion, the concept of sustainable living has gained significant traction. More than just a trend, sustainable living represents a lifestyle choice that prioritizes the health of our planet and future generations. This blog post will explore what sustainable living entails, its benefits, and practical steps you can take to incorporate it into your daily life. A vibrant garden showcasing diverse pla

Sustainable living is no longer just a trend; it has become a necessity. As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, individuals and communities are recognizing the importance of adopting sustainable practices. This blog post will explore the significance of sustainable living, practical steps to implement it, and the positive impact it can have on our planet and future generations. Understanding Sustainable Living Sustainable living refers to a lifestyle th