Kamal Ahmed, Millenium One UN Plaza

We are saddened by the passing of Kamal Ahmed, a banquet server at the Millenium Hilton One UN Plaza and a Union member for almost 40 years.

Kamal came to the United States from Bangladesh 40 years ago. He is remembered as a loving husband, father and a community leader. At the time of his passing, Kamal was serving his second term as president of the New York City Bangladeshi society.

His passing was met by an outpouring of condolences and support from his coworkers, Bangladeshi-Americans, and the wider community. Countless written messages to his family recount people’s memories of Kamal as a kind, strong leader, who was relied on by others in times of crisis. His tireless work on political and social advocacy to assist Bangladeshi immigrants in a new country was highlighted by many whom Kamal had helped throughout his life. Even two days before he was admitted to the hospital, Kamal took care of funeral arrangements for five Bangladeshi families who had lost loved ones from COVID-19.

His fellow banquet server, Ashraful Haque recounts, “Kamal was one of the best people in our community. He was a true leader, who helped our Bangladeshi community for a long time, he was always there for people seeking help.”

Azimur Rahman, a banquet server and HTC member who serves as a trustee on the board of the New York City Bangladeshi Society, added, “Through his success in his professional career at the hotel, and his time working at a law firm, Mr. Kamal Ahmed was always able to be a constant support for anyone who needed financial or personal help in the community. As a community, we are all mourning the loss of a prominent leader. His legacy and charitable work will never be forgotten.”

Kamal’s coworker, banquet server and Delegate Samir Tolba said, “I worked with Kamal for 30 years. He was a good worker. We’re going to miss him.”

His daughter, Romana, remembers Kamal as a loving father and a pillar in his community. “He helped everyone. If he had $1, and you needed $200, he would find a way to give you $200. Thats why people would call him “umbrella” because he would protect people on rainy days. To me, he was an amazing dad, before I even asked for anything he would be ready with it. Its like he could read my mind.”

His wife, Afsari Ahmed, also remembers Kamal as a generous and caring man, “My husband always helped everybody. He was a loving husband and father.”

Kamal is survived by his wife, his son, his daughter, five brothers and five sisters.