The evening will also feature Reeta Roy, President & CEO of Mastercard Foundation and a special tribute to the late H.E. Dr. Hage G. Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia and AAI Alumnus, featuring H.E. Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia and AAI Alumnus, and H.E. Mrs. Monica Gengos, 3rd First Lady of the Republic of Namibia.

Hosted by Chiney Ogwumike, ESPN host, NBA analyst, and 2-Time WNBA All-Star

Tuesday, September 24th, 2024

At Cipriani’s 42nd St. New York, NY

New York, NY – August 11, 2024 – The Africa-America Institute (AAI) is proud to announce its 40th Annual Awards Gala, a premier event celebrating the achievements of Africans and the global African diaspora. The gala will take place on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly.

This year’s gala, themed “Bridging Cultures & Igniting Futures: An Evening Honoring African and Diasporan Visionaries in Arts and Culture,” will feature a Presidential Fireside Chat with His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, and His Excellency Joseph Boakai, the President of Liberia. The discussion will be moderated by

Jennifer Zabasajja, Bloomberg Television’s Chief Africa Correspondent & Anchor, providing a platform for insightful dialogue on leadership, education and development across Africa.

In a heartfelt tribute, the gala will honor the late H.E. Dr. Hage Geingob, former President of the Republic of Namibia and a distinguished AAI alumnus. President Geingob, who passed away on February 4, 2024, was a champion of education and a steadfast supporter of AAI’s mission. His legacy will be celebrated by numerous African leaders, including H.E. Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia and AAI Alumnus, and H.E. Mrs. Monica Geingos, 3rd First Lady of the Republic of Namibia, celebrating his life and legacy and highlighting his contributions to Namibia’s independence and education across Africa.

AAI President Kofi Appenteng stated, “President Geingob’s passing was a profound loss for Namibia and the entire African continent. We are privileged to honor his memory and celebrate his enduring impact across Africa and its worldwide diaspora alongside many African leaders, current and past, at the 2024 AAI Gala.”

The event will also spotlight Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, and feature musical performances by Honey & Vinyl. Chiney Ogwumike, ESPN Host, NBA Analyst, and 2-Time WNBA All-Star, will serve as the evening’s emcee, ensuring an engaging and memorable celebration.

Established in 1984 as a way for AAI to contribute to building new narratives about Africa, the AAI Annual Awards Gala is the preeminent NYC based celebration of the achievements of Africans and the global African diaspora. Held annually during the United Nations General Assembly AAI’s Awards Gala convenes distinguished guests, including Heads of State, Diplomats, international and senior U.S. government officials, business leaders, philanthropists and scholars for a night showcasing the successes of Africa and its worldwide Diaspora.

Proceeds from the Annual Awards Gala fund AAI’s programs and initiatives including AAI Scholarships, School Services Program, African Diplomatic Orientation and Engagement Program, and the State of Education on Africa Conference.

For more information about the gala, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket purchases, visit www.aaiafrica.org/gala-2024 or contact AAI’s Chief of Strategic Partnerships and Engagement, Jourden Warren, at jwarren@aaionline.org or via cell +1 (646) 645-7286.

About AAI

AAI bridges Africa and its diaspora to catalyze a more sustainable and equitable world.

Taking a transcontinental, multifaceted approach, our programs span across four impact pillars: Liberatory Education; Repair and Healing; Economic Sovereignty; and Community Building.

Since our founding in 1953, over 23,000 Africans have received AAI scholarships and fellowships. Included in this community are H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa; H.E. Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Côte; H.E. Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia; the late Dr. Wangari Maathai; Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former United Nations Under-Secretary- General and Executive Director of UN Women; Strive Masiyiwa, Founder & Executive Chairman, Econet Wireless; and thousands more.

2024 Gala Media Files: Graphics, Advertisements, Flyers, and more:

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The Africa-America Institute (AAI) is honored to announce the AAI 40th Annual Gala will serve as a special tribute to the late H.E. Dr. Hage G. Geingob, former President of the Republic of Namibia and distinguished AAI alumnus. AAI will be joined by numerous African leaders, current and past, to honor his memory and legacy. 

The event, themed “Bridging Cultures & Igniting Futures: An Evening Honoring African and Diasporan Visionaries in Arts and Culture,” will take place on Tuesday, September 24th, 2024, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. 

President Geingob, who passed away on February 4, 2024, was a long-time friend and ally of AAI. He participated in AAI’s Southern African Student Program, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Fordham University in 1970 and a Master’s in International Relations from the New School in 1974. Throughout his life, President Geingob was a champion of education and a staunch supporter of AAI’s mission to bridge Africa and its diasporas to catalyze a more sustainable and equitable world. 

Featuring fellow AAI Alumnus, H.E. Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia, the commemoration will highlight President Geingob’s remarkable legacy as a fearless leader, his contributions to Namibia’s independence, and his tireless advocacy for education and development across the African continent. 

AAI President Kofi Appenteng stated, “President Geingob’s passing was a profound loss for Namibia and the entire African continent. We are privileged to honor his memory and celebrate his enduring impact across Africa and its worldwide diaspora alongside many African leaders, current and past, at the 2024 AAI Gala.” 

The 40th Annual Awards Gala will bring together over 500 distinguished guests, including heads of state, diplomats, government officials, philanthropists, business leaders, and scholars, to celebrate African success and foster engagement between Africa and America.

Learn more about the gala, tickets, and sponsorship at: https://www.aaiafrica.org/gala-2024

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The Africa-America Institute (AAI) is honored to announce that His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, will participate in the Presidential Fireside Chat at AAI’s 40th Annual Awards Gala on September 24, 2024 in New York City.

President Akufo-Addo’s participation continues Ghana’s long-standing partnership with AAI and its mission to bridge Africa and its diaspora to catalyze a more sustainable and equitable world. As the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence, Ghana has served as a beacon for Pan-Africanism and a gateway for diaspora engagement.

Under the theme of “Bridging Cultures, Igniting Futures” AAI’s 40th Annual Awards Gala will be a celebration of the contributions and achievements of African and Diasporan visionaries in Education, Arts and Culture across Africa and its Diaspora. We look forward to announcing more of our exciting line up of 2024 Honorees in the coming weeks.

Learn more about the gala, tickets, and sponsorship at: https://www.aaiafrica.org/gala-2024

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AAI had a long and lasting relationship with the late President. Having participated in AAI’s Southern African Student Program, President Geingob earned a Bachelor of Arts from Fordham University in 1970 and a master’s in international relations from the New School in 1974. A champion of education in Namibia and across the African continent, he was a committed friend and ally of AAI and its mission to bridge Africa and its diasporas in the Americas by educating people and connecting worlds.

Just last September during our 70th Annual Awards Gala, President Geingob joined His Excellency Mokgweetsi Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, for a discussion on the state of education in Africa. In 2015, AAI had the distinct pleasure of presenting His Excellency with our Lifetime Achievement and Distinguished Alumnus Award in New York City and in 2017, he graciously hosted AAI’s Alumni Reception in Windhoek, Namibia.

Leaders from around the world have paused to pay tribute to President Geingob. In a statement from the White House, President Joe Biden said, “President Geingob was a fearless leader, fighting for independence, overseeing the drafting of the new nation’s constitution, and serving his country twice as prime minister and finally as president. He was an eloquent advocate for his country and continent, who stood up for his values and beliefs.”

First elected in 2015, Geingob was the third president of Namibia. In addition to the Presidency, his long career in public service also included serving as Prime Minister of Namibia from 1990 to 2002, and again, 2012 to 2015. Between 2008 and 2012, Geingob was Minister of Trade and Industry. At the time of his death, he was President of the South-West Africa People’s Organization Party (SWAPO).

May he Rest in Peace.

Kofi Appenteng,

President of AAI

AAI Interview with President Geingob

President Hage Geingob Receives the AAI Lifetime Achievement Award

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We are excited to announce AAI’s 9^th annual State of Education on Africa conference that will be held virtually on Friday, January 19th, 2024 from 1-6pm ET. The conference theme for 2024, “What is ‘the African Diaspora’—and Why Should it Matter to Me” will explore the changing meanings of “the African diaspora” and “African American” in today’s cultural and political landscape and the value of centering Africa and its worldwide diaspora in K-12 education. More information and registration can be found at aaiafrica.org/soe.

Our annual SOE conference aims to reach a broad intellectually curious and socially conscious audience. The program is designed to offer something useful to students, parents, teachers, school administrators, academic scholars, social justice activists, leaders in philanthropy, and others eager to learn more—whether based in or outside the United States.

For conference updates and speaker announcements, follow us on twitter,  facebook,  and instagram. 

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After the evening kicked off with opening remarks by the Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, and AAI President, Kofi Appenteng, AAI had the pleasure of bestowing awards upon this year’s distinguished honorees including: Civil Rights Activist, Scholar, and Educator Evelyn Jones Rich; Technology Giant MTN Group,  accepted by Group President & CEO, Ralph Mupita; Philanthropic Leader the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, accepted by President & CEO, Peter Laugharn; and BET CEO Emeritus, Debra Lee.

Attendees of the gala were then treated to a fireside chat between H.E. Dr. Hage Gottfried Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia and AAI Alumnus, and H.E. Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, moderated by Bloomberg TV anchor and Correspondent, Jennifer Zabasajja.

View the Gala Photo Gallery

The ceremony also included an incredible performance by much-lauded mezzo-soprano Alicia Olatuja and an original poetry reading by Storyteller & Narrative Architect at the Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship at MIT Donovan Beck.

We at AAI would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to all those who attended and contributed to this most wonderful celebration of 70 years of the Africa-America Institute. Throughout its 70-year history, AAI has provided over 23,000 scholarships and fellowships to African students. The Annual Awards Gala raises funds to support AAI programs and initiatives, such as its work to assist K-12 districts and schools in the United States that want to expose students to scholarly, unbiased knowledge about Africa, and advanced education and training scholarship programs for professionals across the African continent. We hope to continue our mission for many years to come.

For more information on AAI’s 70th Anniversary Gala visit www.aaiafrica.org or contact AAI’s Chief of Strategic Partnerships & Engagement, Jourden Warren at jwarren@aaionline.org or +1 (646) 645-7286

Get social! For exclusive photos, updates, and more follow us across social media: 

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In March of 2023, AAI had the privilege of sitting down with H.E. Dr. Hage Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia, as part of AAI’s Alumni Outreach Initiative. Having participated in AAI’s Southern African Student Program, President Geingob earned a BA from Fordham University in 1970, and a Master’s in International Relations from the New School in 1974. 

First elected in November 2014, President Geingob has served his country, and indeed the continent of Africa, with distinction. His illustrious career of public service also includes serving as the first Prime Minister of Namibia following independence from South Africa in 1990.  The President has also served as Minister of Trade and Industry and in 2007 was chosen as Vice-President of the ruling party and former liberation movement – South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO). Throughout his life, President Geingob has been a champion of education for all of Namibia’s people.  AAI awarded the President a scholarship under its Southern African Student Program and the President’s lifetime of achievements is a testament to achieving academic excellence.

A firm believer in education as the greater equalizer, AAI is honored to feature H.E. President Geingob during our 70th Anniversary Gala on September 19th. To learn more and purchase tickets visit www.aaiafrica.org

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This year the Africa-America Institute (AAI) celebrates its 70th year of enriching the social fabric of humanity by connecting students and leaders across sectors, facilitating access to reliable information about Africa, and transforming the way we understand Africa and its worldwide diaspora (Global Africa). To mark this momentous milestone, AAI will be hosting its 70th Anniversary Gala – A celebration of our most prominent Alumni, our historic programs, partners and future direction.

During the evening’s celebrations, AAI will honor the trailblazing executive Debra Lee, and the pathbreaking Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. AAI’s 70th Anniversary Gala is set to take place on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023 at Cipriani 42nd St. New York City, NY.

Hosted by Hall of Fame Inducted Marketing Executive, Author, Entrepreneur and longtime AAI supporter Bozoma Saint John, the evening will also spotlight prominent AAI alumni – including H.E. Hage Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia, AAI’s historic programs and partners in commemoration of seven decades of building a global bridge of understanding, education, communication and partnership. As one of AAI’s most distinguished Alumni, President Geingob received a Scholarship under AAI’s Southern African Student Program where he graduated from Fordham University with a Bachelor of Arts in 1970 and The New School with his Master of Arts in Political Science in 1974.

“For any institution to reach 70 years is a remarkable achievement and I am so exceptionally proud to be part of this journey” said Kofi Appenteng, AAI’s President. “For seven decades, AAI has stayed true to our purpose, and we will continue to carry the torch.”

“During this moment in history when connecting the diaspora is so important for the sustainability of progress on the continent. I can think of no better way to mark such an important milestone for such a significant organization than with a vibrant evening celebrating AAI’s rich history and looking ahead to its incredibly bright future – and the work still to be done,” said AAI Board Chair, Christal Jackson.

Secure your tickets and join us over the coming months as we highlight key events and individuals from our history and register now for more information on our 70th Anniversary Gala at www.aaiafrica.org

For more information on Sponsorship and Ticket Sales, please contact AAI’s Chief of Strategic Partnerships & Engagement, Jourden Warren at jwarren@aaionline.org or +1 (646) 645-7286

For more information about AAI’s 70th Anniversary Awards Gala and Ceremony, visit aaiafrica.org

Get social! For exclusive photos, updates and more follow us across social media: @aaiafrica

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The 2023 Honorees include:

Business Leadership Award – Debra Lee

BET CEO Emeritus, Author of “I AM DEBRA LEE” and founder of Leading Women Defined, Debra Lee will receive the 2023 Business Leadership Award recognizing her lifelong commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity, fighting for representation – not only on-screen but in the boardroom – and to supporting the next generation of Black women leaders. Through her work, Lee has created spaces that further position Black men and women to climb industry ladders while providing a concrete example of what is possible, not only in the United States, but also across Africa and the globe. Lee served as CEO of Black Entertainment Television Networks from 2005-2018. Her 30+ year tenure at BET also extended to roles as General Counsel and COO. She is also the founder of Leading Women Defined and the co-founder of Monarch Collective—both organizations wholly dedicated to mentoring, supporting, and empowering both women and the BIPOC community at large.

Philanthropic Impact Award – The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation

AAI will recognize the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation with the Philanthropic Impact Award in acknowledgment of the profound impact the organization has made through its remarkable work on the African continent and commitment to localization in its grant making. The Foundation’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of individuals and communities in Africa through its programs has been integral in addressing pressing social challenges while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in real time. Peter Laugharn, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, will accept the Award on behalf of the Foundation. Under his leadership, the Foundation’s commitment to reaching 25% localization in its international grant making by the end of this year is leading the field where the current commitment is 25% by the end of 2030 under the ‘Grand Bargain.’

About the Annual Awards Gala

Since 1984, the AAI Awards Gala has been the most anticipated African-centered event in New York City. Held annually during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the AAI Gala convenes dignitaries—Heads of State, diplomats, domestic, and international government officials—philanthropists, business leaders, journalists, and scholars for a night showcasing the success of Africa and the Diaspora — Global Africa.

About AAI

The Africa-America Institute (AAI) is a 70-year-old institution with the mission of promoting enlightened engagement between Africa and America through education, training and dialogue — a mission well placed to meet this moment of global racial reckoning. Among our principal co-founders were Horace Mann Bond and William Leo Hansberry, two pioneering African-American scholar activists whose work straddles the divide between African and African diaspora studies. AAI continues to embrace the philosophy of education for liberation that Bond and Hansberry espoused – a philosophy that affirms the humanity and cultivates the intellectual aspirations and excellence of all people.

AAI’s dual program focus has always been on improving education in and about Africa. Since its founding in 1953, over 23,000 Africans have received scholarships and fellowships from AAI. These Africans are now an esteemed network of alumni, many of whom are leaders and influencers across public, private, and governmental sectors in Africa and globally. Included in this network are current Heads of State, H.E. Hage Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia; H.E. Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire; H.E. Mohamed Bazoum, President of the Republic of Niger; and H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa. Many of AAI’s alumni have left an indelible imprint, including the late 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Wangari Mathaai, and the late Barack Obama, Sr.

View last year’s 38th Annual Awards Gala

Hosted by Bozoma Saint John and Luvvie Ajayi Jones, and honoring H.E. Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, representing the People of the Republic of Botswana, with the National Achievement Award, Mahen Bonetti with the Ambassador for African Cinema Award, Dr. Solomon Assefa with the Science and Technology Leadership Award, and Betty Wambui Kibaara with the Distinguished Alumni Award.

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