October 15, 2026 — Houston, Texas
Published in the Jewish Herald-Voice.
4 Houstonians share inspiring stories of resilience, hope and belonging
The American Jewish Committee believes America’s strength lies in upholding equality, dignity and opportunity for all. That belief is at the heart of AJC Houston’s annual America’s Table breakfast, a gathering that celebrates the diverse experiences, perspectives and stories that strengthen our community.
AJC invites the community to join them on Thursday, Oct. 29, at 9 a.m. for America’s Table, a moving and inspiring program that celebrates the power of shared humanity through the voices of four remarkable Houstonians. Hearing from speakers who have rebuilt their lives in Houston, attendees will leave inspired and awestruck by personal stories of perseverance, identity and finding home.
This year’s event is presented in partnership with IM Houston (formerly Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston), allowing AJC Houston to welcome an even broader audience and deepen the relationships that have always been at the heart of this program. Together, AJC Houston and IM Houston are bringing new voices and perspectives to a program that celebrates what unites us while honoring the unique journeys that enrich our community.
America’s Table speakers
Sheroo Mukhtiar is a first-generation Indian American and community leader. When Mukhtiar left Mumbai for the United States more than three decades ago, she arrived with determination, ambition and limited resources. As an international student pursuing graduate studies in social work, she experienced firsthand the challenges of building a life in a new country, experiences that inspired a lifelong commitment to helping others.
Today, Mukhtiar serves as president and CEO of IM Houston, where she leads programs that support seniors, refugees and vulnerable families throughout the region. Her story reflects the power of compassion, service and community.
Linda Toyota is a third-generation Japanese American and community connector. The importance of belonging and inclusion are deeply personal. Toyota’s Japanese-American parents were incarcerated in internment camps during World War II, an experience that shaped her lifelong commitment to diversity, civic engagement and community building.
Throughout her career, Toyota has connected people, organizations and ideas across Houston while advocating for greater understanding among different communities. Her story demonstrates how resilience and service can transform difficult chapters of history into opportunities for connection and leadership.
Rose Carline Castel journey brought her to Houston from Haiti, beginning with a determination to create a safer and brighter future for her family. Born in Haiti, she later moved to the Dominican Republic in search of opportunity. Following a traumatic event involving her younger daughter, Castel came to the United States through the International Organization for Migration. She arrived in Houston last year with her daughter, now 15.
With the support of IM Houston’s Refugee Resettlement Program and a network of community partners, she began rebuilding her life in a new country. Today, Castel is pursuing a pharmacy technician certification at Texas Healthtech Institute while working toward greater stability and opportunity for her family.
Rafee Komeizi is a first-generation Iranian American and entrepreneur. His American dream began with a leap of faith. Born in Iran during a period of dramatic political and societal change, he, along with his family, left their homeland in search of greater opportunity and stability. Starting over in a new country was not easy, but through perseverance, education and hard work, Komeizi built a successful life in Houston.
Today, as co-owner of Kiani Realty with his wife Kiani, also a first-generation Iranian American, he reflects on the resilience, gratitude and determination that shaped his family’s journey and continue to guide his commitment to the Houston community.
Together, these four speakers remind us that while their journeys began in different places, they share a common belief in the power of opportunity, perseverance and community. Their experiences demonstrate how people from diverse backgrounds help strengthen Houston and contribute to the rich fabric of our city.
AJC Houston invites the community to come together for a morning of storytelling, reflection and meaningful conversation at America’s Table. The program will be emceed by AJC board member Rabbi Edwin Goldberg of Congregation Beth Shalom of The Woodlands.
Attending America’s Table is an opportunity to stand with others who believe in the power of connection, mutual respect and shared responsibility for one another. Your participation helps AJC Houston continue building bridges across communities, promoting understanding and fostering a more united Houston.
Registration is just $18. If you have friends, family members, colleagues or community members who would enjoy this experience, you are welcome to share this invitation with them.
To register, go to donate.ajc.org/americastable. The event location will be provided upon verified registration, which ends on Monday, Oct. 26.
