NANB – Blue Cross and Blue Shield | International Institute of Minnesota

About the Event

Please join us for our third annual fundraising event on Wednesday, May 6.

Stand in solidarity with refugees, immigrants, and their families by joining us for an evening of purpose and celebration.

Together, we will raise funds to support their safety, stability, and prosperity and uplift the voices of New Americans who call Minnesota home.

Enjoy an evening of inspiring stories, dinner and drinks, entertainment, and a live auction.

Gather your friends, purchase tickets, and show up for our New American community. We are stronger when are together.

When: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 │ 5:30 – 9:00 pm

Where: Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot

225 3rd Avenue S, Minneapolis, MN 55401

Schedule

5:30 – 6:30: Check-in and cocktail reception

6:30 – 9:00: Dinner, program, and live auction

Buy Tickets

Sponsorships

Learn more about sponsoring New Americans New Beginnings 2026.

Become a Sponsor

Event Emcee

Raya Quttaineh is a journalist at KARE 11. She emigrated from Jordan to the United States as a child. Raya grew up in Saint Paul and has a deep admiration for people and organizations that support immigrants and refugees. Through her work, she tries to share impactful stories that uplift historically marginalized communities and voices.

“As an immigrant myself, I am thrilled to be a part of New Americans New Beginnings, as the International Institute of Minnesota continues its important mission of helping New Americans find stability and success. Based on my family’s experience, I know how necessary this work is, and I’m deeply grateful for IIMN and its impact on our community.”

Performer

Aida Shahghasemi is a Minneapolis-based musician with roots in Iran whose work bridges Persian classical music, contemporary songwriting, and cultural activism. A 2017 McKnight Music Fellow, she has toured with Iron & Wine and Marketa Irglova and appears on two albums by Glen Hansard. Her four albums span from Wind Between the Horse’s Ears (2015) to Sarāb (2025). She also teaches and works as a mental health therapist.