A Historic Gathering in Paradise
The Knanaya Catholic Women’s Forum of North America (KCWFNA) celebrated a milestone with its 5th Summit and first-ever international gathering in Cancún, Mexico.
 Hosted at the beautiful Moon Palace Resort, women from across North America came together for four unforgettable days of faith, culture, learning, and sisterhood.
Day 1: A Warm Welcome in Cancún
Faith and Fellowship Mark the Start of the Summit
The excitement was palpable as attendees arrived at Moon Palace Resort, greeted with smiles, welcome packages, and the Caribbean breeze.
The summit began with a Syro-Malabar Pattu Qurbana celebrated by Fr. Boban Vattampurath, setting a tone of reverence and unity.
The inaugural ceremony featured the Canadian, American, and Indian national anthems, followed by the prayer song Marthoman. A candle-lighting ceremony officially opened the summit, led by:
●    Danny Pallattumadam, KCWFNA President
●    James Illikal, KCCNA President
●    Fr. Boban Vattampurath, KCCNA spiritual director
●    Dr. Susan Thengumtharayil, KCCNA Joint Secretary
●    KCWFNA Executives
The evening continued with inspiring remarks, the EmpowerHer Raffle Draw, and a vibrant performance by the New York Women’s Forum.
Fun icebreakers ended the night, sparking laughter and connection.
“The joy and energy in the room were contagious,” shared one participant.
Day 2: Faith, Culture, and Connection
KCWFNA Members Unite Through Prayer and Celebration
The day began with morning Mass led by Fr. Boban Vattampurath, followed by an unforgettable flashmob that filled the resort with excitement!
Special thanks to the Flashmob Committee:
●    Chair: Riya Kottoor
●    Choreographers: Jeni Thundiyil & Julie Vennalasseril
The much-anticipated Cultural Program featured 12+ regional teams presenting beautifully choreographed performances celebrating Knanaya heritage.
Local Women’s Forum Executives were honored with tokens of appreciation for their service and dedication.
Evening time brought units together for moments of fellowship and laughter.
“Each performance reflected the spirit of our community,” said one participant.
Day 3: Learning, Inspiration, and Joy by the Sea
Workshops, Wellness, and Sisterhood
The day began serenely with a rosary.
Educational and wellness sessions empowered attendees with knowledge and inspiration:
●    Breast Cancer Awareness – Riya Kottoor
●    Digital Safety & Online Empowerment – Keerthi Joseph Kudasseril (Naduparambil) & Ann Luke Vettickal
●    Healthy Boundaries in Daily Life – Dr. Divya Vallipaddavil & Manju Philip-Nedumakel
“These topics remind us to care for ourselves—mind, body, and soul.”
After the sessions, laughter echoed through salsa lessons and leisure time at the resort, embodying KCWFNA’s mission of empowerment through faith, knowledge, and fellowship.

Day 3 Evening: A Glamorous Finale in Cancún
Banquet Night Celebrates Achievement and Sisterhood
The summit’s Banquet Night and Closing Ceremony was a grand celebration of unity, elegance, and gratitude.
The evening began with opening remarks by KCWFNA Secretary Maria Kaitharam, followed by a fashion show featuring participants from across North America.
KCWFNA President Danny Pallattumadam delivered a heartfelt presidential address, recognizing past leaders, sponsors, and committees for their dedication.
Guests enjoyed a four-course dinner while celebrating the week’s achievements. Entertainment highlights included:
●    Group Medley – Led by Brenda Edukuthara
●    Comedy Act – Led by Biby Vertikkatt
●    Salsa performance - by Moon Palace
●    Summit Highlight Video & Flashmob
A vote of thanks by RVP Sephy Muprapallil and a lively DJ dance party concluded the evening on a high note.
“This night was pure joy and gratitude,” said one member.
Day 4: Farewell, Gratitude, and New Beginnings
KCWFNA Members Depart Inspired and Rejuvenated
The summit closed with a thanksgiving Mass at the resort chapel, where members gathered to give thanks for a blessed event.
Farewells were filled with hugs, gratitude, and reflection.
“I’m leaving feeling refreshed and empowered,” one participant shared.
KCWFNA extended heartfelt appreciation to its partners and sponsors:
●    Moon Palace Resorts
●    Focus Productions (Photography & Videography)
●    HV Travels (Official Transportation Partner)
Sponsors
●    Diamond Sponsors: Nick Chakungal and Soman & Elsa Kottoor
●    Platinum Sponsors: Bridget Kulangara and Indira Karottukunnel
●    Gold Sponsors: Punnoose & Prathibha Thachet and Cyriac & Siju Koovakattil 
●    All other sponsors
KCWFNA also thanked KCCNA, local KCS units, and Women’s Forum Executives for their unwavering collaboration and encouragement.
As attendees departed, one message echoed throughout: gratitude and hope.
The Cancún Summit may have ended, but the unity, empowerment, and friendships built here will continue to shine—lighting the way for KCWFNA’s bright future.
KCWFNA – Empowering Women Through Faith, Culture, and Community
“The 5th International Summit was more than an event—it was a celebration of faith, empowerment, and enduring sisterhood across North America.”