On March 6, 2024, Consul General Somjai Taphaopong, along with Deputy Consul General Jiraporn Jiranantakij and Consul Katesuda Thongna, participated in the International Women’s Day 2024 Special Reception. This event was hosted by the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York in collaboration with the Consulate General of India. It brought together representatives from the New York City Mayor’s Office and the consular corps to celebrate the achievements and honor the admirable roles of women around the globe who have made significant contributions to the development of their societies, including New York City.

 

     At the event, there was a ceremony to present awards to women from various nations who have made outstanding contributions. Representing Thailand, Ms. Sujittra Paleewong received this award in recognition of her role as both the co-founder and president who has been advocating for the work of the Thai Cultural Center of New York since its establishment in 1986. The center aims to preserve, promote, and disseminate Thai culture through continuous efforts in teaching the Thai language, traditional Thai arts, and Thai music to Thai-American youths. Additionally, it organizes various activities to engage the Thai community in New York and nearby areas in Thai traditions consistently.

 

     On this occasion, Consul General Somjai also took the opportunity to showcase the culinary culture of Thailand by presenting fragrant coconut-scented Thai desserts known as "Ta-go Sago" and refreshing Thai herbal drinks like "Fresh Roselle Juice". This presentation was as well considered an impressive cultural exchange, highlighting the culinary traditions of Thailand with other nations.