USA
Indian American Community Leader Mohammed Faheem Honored by Arabian American Chamber of Commerce at Empowerment Summit: Indian American community leader and independent media advocate Mohammed Faheem received a prestigious honor from the Arabian American Chamber of Commerce during its annual Empowerment Summit held on December 8th at the Orland Civic Center, Illinois. Before an audience of nearly 300 attendees, the Chamber recognized Faheem—host and producer of The Lightning Strike on WCPT 820 AM—for his leadership, community service, and contributions to independent media. WCPT serves as an NBC affiliate.
A Leader Shaped by Strong Educational Roots
Faheem’s commitment to journalism and civic engagement is deeply connected to his early academic foundation. He studied Journalism and Mass Communication at Osmania Arts College, one of India’s most respected institutions. Before that, he attended All Saints High School in Abids, Hyderabad, a school renowned for producing distinguished professionals and community leaders. These formative years shaped his passion for media, public affairs, and community empowerment.
Empowerment Summit Highlights Leadership and Media Integrity
The event brought together business leaders, elected officials, and representatives of Arab, South Asian, Indian American, and broader multicultural communities. Moreover, the Summit featured distinguished guests including Mayor Jim Dodge of Orland Park, who delivered the keynote address, and Mayor Mary (May) Basta of Bolingbrook.
The Chamber honored Faheem for his decades-long involvement in civic engagement and nonprofit leadership. In addition, they celebrated the growing impact of The Lightning Strike, his widely respected Sunday morning political affairs program. The show has become a crucial platform for honest dialogue and community-centered journalism.
Hasan Nijem, President of the Arabian American Chamber of Commerce, praised Faheem’s contributions.
“The Lightning Strike has become one of the most important independent media voices in our region,” Nijem said. “Mohammed Faheem brings integrity, courage, and fairness to the microphone. We are proud to honor someone who speaks truth while giving our communities a seat at the table.”
A Voice of Integrity and Bridge-Building
Veteran columnist and broadcaster Ray Hanania, who helped organize the Summit, also applauded Faheem’s work.
“Mohammed is not just a broadcaster; he’s a bridge-builder,” Hanania noted. “His show uplifts underrepresented voices, challenges political hypocrisy, and strengthens democratic conversation. His recognition today is well deserved.”
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere reflected unity, celebration, and a shared commitment to civic empowerment. Attendees included Indian American entrepreneurs, nonprofit executives, educators, and elected officials from across the Chicagoland region.
Faheem Calls for Stronger Independent Media
In his acceptance speech, Faheem expressed gratitude while highlighting the essential role of independent journalism.
“Independent platforms like The Lightning Strike matter because they serve the people, not the powerful,” Faheem said. “I’m humbled by this recognition and energized to keep doing the work—building community, informing the public, and defending democratic values.”
The Empowerment Summit concluded with networking sessions, business showcases, and discussions focused on strengthening partnerships within the broader Arabian American and Indian American communities.
A Milestone for Community-Centered Journalism
The award marks a significant milestone in Faheem’s career as a media professional, Indian American community organizer, and advocate for inclusive public dialogue.
The Lightning Strike airs live every Sunday from 8–10 AM on WCPT 820 AM, online at HeartlandSignal.com, on the WCPT Facebook page, and afterward on TLSRadio.com and the show’s YouTube channel (@tlsradio).
