By: Farooq Mirza
Jersey City, New Jersey- Prominent Pakistani-American Leader Imtiaz Syed, who has been residing in Jersey City, New Jersey for the past 40 years, has been widely recognized as a respected and dignified member of the community. Known for his integrity and dedication, Syed has not only built a successful professional life but has also raised a highly educated family, with his children pursuing advanced education and careers in the medical field.
Over the decades, he has made Jersey City his base and has remained actively involved in serving local communities. His work extends across civic engagement, legislative collaboration, and public service. He has been associated with the Jersey City legislative assembly and has contributed to initiatives within the Economic Development Department.
In addition to his services in the United States, Imtiaz Syed has also played an important role in Pakistan, where he served as Managing Director under the Ministry of Tourism. His professional background spans the travel, tourism, and service industries, and he has significantly contributed to strengthening Pakistan–US relations. His efforts in community interaction, particularly in education and healthcare sectors, have been especially notable.
In recognition of his outstanding services, the Jersey City Legislative Assembly has honored Imtiaz Syed with the prestigious title of “Senior of the Year 2026.” This recognition is considered historic, as it is the first time that the entire legislative body unanimously passed a resolution in honor of a single individual particularly a Pakistani-American.
The honor is not only a personal achievement for Imtiaz Syed but also a matter of pride for the Pakistani-American community and Pakistan as a whole. The award ceremony was held at a dignified and well-attended event in City Hall Building Jersey City NJ , where local Americans, Pakistani-Americans, Indian community members, and representatives of various cultures were present.
During the ceremony, Syed’s name was formally announced following the approval of the resolution. In a remarkable gesture, members of the entire assembly left their seats, came down to the floor, personally congratulated him, shook hands, presented flowers, and took commemorative photographs. The recognition was officially conferred upon him in a highly respectable manner, reflecting the depth of his contributions.
According to the official citation presented at the Jersey City Municipal Council, Imtiaz Syed was described as a distinguished executive, civic leader, and public servant whose career spans more than four decades of exemplary leadership across economic development, international relations, real estate, and government services in the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Asia.
He currently serves as a board member of the Immigration Affairs Commission in Jersey City, representing over 37 ethnic communities and advocating for immigrant support. As the founding chairman, he played a key role in establishing the commission, expanding access to immigration resources, and strengthening engagement between communities and government agencies.
In the private sector, Syed is the CEO of Alpine Medical Associates. His previous roles include Senior Project Manager at the Jersey City Economic Development Corporation, where he contributed to major development projects, and Vice President at Central New Jersey Realty Corporation.
Internationally, he served as Managing Director at the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation under the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, and Youth Affairs. In this role, he led tourism initiatives across Pakistan, India, and Nepal, increased organizational revenue by 80%, and oversaw the redevelopment of the internationally recognized Malam Jabba Ski Resort. He also served as Chairman and CEO of Pakistan Hotels Incorporated, managing national and international hospitality operations.
A pioneer entrepreneur, Syed founded Pak-Am Travel Service, one of the first successful international travel agencies in Jersey City. His public service includes his role as Commissioner of the Jersey City Board of Education, appointed by the Governor of New Jersey, and Chairman of the Jersey City Development Authority, where he contributed to major urban development projects, including the transformation of the Jersey City waterfront.
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Community Service and Global Impact of Imtiaz Syed
Beyond his professional achievements, Syed has actively supported underserved communities through food, coat, and blanket drives, healthcare access initiatives, and voter registration campaigns that significantly improved civic participation.
He holds a Master’s degree in History and Constitutional Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in English and Political Science from Punjab University. He also pursued studies in International Relations at University College London and holds professional credentials in real estate and insurance. Fluent in English, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, and Saraiki, Syed brings a global perspective to his work.
Pakistani-American Imtiaz Syed’s Journey of Leadership and Service
In his response, Imtiaz Syed expressed gratitude to the city officials, council members, friends, and family. He specifically thanked County Executive Larry Guy and Mayor James Solomon for nominating him for this prestigious recognition among Jersey City’s population of approximately 300,000 people.
He emphasized that the honor is a tribute to his motherland, Pakistan, stating:
> “I learned how to be a decent citizen in Pakistan, which I practice here in my adopted country.”
He further expressed hope that this recognition would inspire younger generations to achieve similar honors by adhering to principles of integrity and discipline.
Concluding his remarks, Syed once again thanked his colleagues, friends, and city officials for bestowing this honor upon him.
The recognition of Imtiaz Syed as “Senior of the Year 2026” stands as a historic milestone, not only celebrating an individual’s lifelong dedication but also highlighting the positive contributions of the Pakistani-American community on a global stage.
