From July 10 -12 in New York City, Face2Face Africa kicks off its 4th Pan African Weekend (PAW) created to highlight the individuals and ideas that are transforming society, and celebrate the pioneers, trailblazers, and leaders who have paved the way for the next generation. From attending master classes and a networking mixer to an awards gala, after-party and brunch, attendees can expect an action packed 3-day agenda.
[Related: Young Innovators Bringing the Diaspora ‘Face2Face’ with Africa]
The event kicks-off on July 10 with the “Young Africans Committed to Excellence†(YACE) master class which provides an engaging platform for the YACE fellows to discuss their work, achievements, and vision for Africa in front of an audience.
On Saturday, July 11, guests will enjoy a night of cocktails, entertainment, and awards at the ESPACE ballroom in Times Square, N.Y. According to a statement released by Face2Face, this year the organization will honor several individuals with fascinating stories to tell. Here is a snapshot of the extraordinary journeys and commitments of a few 2015 honorees:
Humanitarian Award recipients: Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker, actors and founders of Sophie’s Voice Foundation. The power couple founded the organization in honor of their daughter Sophie, who was diagnosed with spina bifida at birth. Sophie’s Voice is a leading organization that supports global health and wellness initiatives in multicultural communities, and educates families on the importance of building healthy lifestyles worldwide.
Entrepreneur Award recipient: Ashish J. Thakker is another inspirational honoree. He escaped the Rwandan
Genocide and established his first business at the age of 15 with a $5,000 loan. From its genesis as a small IT business in Uganda, Mr. Thakker’s Mara Group has grown into a globally recognized multi-sector conglomerate that has earned him the title of Africa’s youngest billionaire.Trailblazer Award recipient: Fumbi Chima has had to break through the thickest of glass ceilings to rise to the upper echelons of corporate America, as the chief information officer at Walmart Asia. In doing so, Ms. Chima has cleared a path for young women of color in technology and business.
Leadership Award recipient: Amadou Gallo Fall is currently spearheading the development of basketball on the continent of Africa, as the managing director of NBA Africa.
A portion of the proceeds from the evening will also go towards F2FA EduTech program, a program to bring modern technology and IT solutions to schools across Africa.
Visit Face2Face Africa to learn more about the organization and to purchase tickets visit Eventbrite.