SABCVA Honors Anil Sharma and Rizwan Jaka at 2026 Awards Ceremony, Announces New Workforce and Community Initiatives

On March 29, 2026, the South Asian Business Council of Virginia (SABCVA) recognized outstanding leaders for their “leadership, service, and dedication” at the Hyatt Regency Dulles in Sterling, Virginia.

The 2026 SABCVA Awards Ceremony brought together hundreds of professionals, entrepreneurs, CEOs, elected officials, and community leaders. According to a SABCVA statement, the event served as a testament to the growing “strength, unity, and influence” of Virginia’s South Asian business community.

Amid a day of panel discussions and keynote sessions, the awards presentation emerged as a highlight of the gathering. The honors reflected SABCVA’s core values of leadership, service, mentorship, and the belief that success gains meaning when it uplifts others.

Anil Sharma, CEO of 22nd Century Technologies, was recognized with SABCVA’s Inspiring Businessman of the Year Award. The award was presented by Virginia State Senator Kannan Srinivasan and Delegate Atoosa Reaser. According to the statement, Sharma’s leadership has significantly shaped Virginia’s technology and federal contracting sectors while creating opportunities for others.

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition,” Sharma said. “Success is not achieved alone—it’s built through community, mentorship, and lifting others as we grow.”

Senator Srinivasan noted, “Recognizing leaders like Anil Sharma highlights the power of vision, integrity, and mentorship. These are the individuals who not only succeed themselves but raise up everyone around them.”

Delegate Reaser added, “It’s inspiring to see leaders who lead with purpose and uplift their communities. SABCVA’s awards celebrate exactly this spirit of service and impact.”

Rizwan Jaka was honored with the Community Impact Award for his longstanding commitment to service, mentorship, and community advocacy. The recognition, also presented by Senator Srinivasan and Delegate Reaser, received a standing ovation from attendees.

“Serving the community has always been my passion, and it’s an honor to be recognized by such an inspiring platform,” Jaka said.

Senator Srinivasan said, “Rizwan’s dedication to our community is exemplary. Honoring him reminds us that true leadership is measured by how much you give back.”

Delegate Reaser noted, “Rizwan’s service shows us the impact one committed individual can make. These awards are a way to shine a light on those who quietly transform lives.”

The awards ceremony also highlighted SABCVA’s broader mission of empowering the South Asian community through workforce development and leadership initiatives. The organization announced several upcoming programs aimed at creating opportunities and building future-ready skills:

• 100 summer internships in AI and cybersecurity with interview opportunities
• An AI and cybersecurity hackathon to foster innovation and collaboration
• Women empowerment workshops focused on leadership development
• A summer program for college students to enhance public speaking and leadership skills
• Civic engagement workshops to cultivate future community leaders
• Business workshops offering guidance on funding, grants, loans, and federal contracting, along with opportunities to pitch to CEOs

Mansoor Qureshi, chair of SABCVA, emphasized the organization’s forward-looking vision.

“We’re just getting started. Our mission is simple—to empower our community with real opportunities, future-ready skills, and strong leadership. This is more than programs. This is a movement.”

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