The New England Bangladeshi American Foundation (NEBAF) is a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to supporting Bangladeshi and South Asian communities throughout New England. We were created from a simple belief: no one should have to choose between building a new life in America and staying connected to the culture, traditions, and community that make them who they are.
NEBAF’s story is deeply rooted in the personal experience of our founder, Sitara Naheed. As an immigrant herself, Sitara understood firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate a new country and culture without a strong support system. After losing her husband at a young age, she found herself raising two young daughters in America while learning to navigate a culture that was unfamiliar to her. Her own experiences inspired her to create the kind of welcoming, supportive community she needed during that time.
From that vision, NEBAF grew into a place where immigrant families can find connection, resources, education, and support while celebrating and preserving their cultural heritage.
We envision a strong, united, and self-reliant community where immigrants have equitable access to opportunities and the support they need to thrive, while maintaining their cultural heritage and contributing positively to society.
At NEBAF, we are building more than programs - we are building a community where people feel connected. We are proud to walk alongside immigrant families as they build their futures while honoring where they came from.
Our mission is to empower Bangladeshi and South Asian communities throughout New England by providing cultural, educational, social, and humanitarian services that strengthen women, families, and individuals. Through community engagement, educational programming, immigrant support services, cultural celebrations, and initiatives for vulnerable women and families, we help immigrants successfully integrate into American society while preserving their cultural heritage, language, and traditions.