Used Courtesy of The African Think Tank
GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — The African Think Tank (TATT) is bringing national and local leaders together for its second annual Ubuntu Fundraising Gala on Nov. 15 at the Ruthe Jackson Center in Grand Prairie.
Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen will co-chair the event alongside Akwete Tyehimba, co-founder of Pan-African Connection, and Junior Ezeonu, the city’s deputy mayor pro tem.
The evening will also spotlight award-winning fashion designer Venny Etienne of Levenity and Caroline A. Wanga, president and CEO of Essence Ventures, who will deliver the keynote address.
The gala, running from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., will feature African-inspired cuisine, a fashion show, live performances by DJ Queen Agnes, and an exclusive after-party, “TATT After Dark,” until midnight.
“Ubuntu,” meaning “I am, because we are,” anchors the gala’s mission of unity and shared humanity. Dr. Sidonie Niba, founder and CEO of The African Think Tank, said the event is designed to show what’s possible when culture and leadership unite.
“Our greatest strength has always been unity, and the Ubuntu Gala embodies that truth,” Niba said. “With visionary leaders like Mayor Ron Jensen, designer Venny Etienne, Caroline Wanga, and so many more lending their voices, this evening is proof of what’s possible when culture, leadership, and community move as one.”
For Etienne, the event is about more than fashion.
“The Ubuntu Gala is a reminder that our greatest power is found in unity,” he said. “It is more than a celebration of art, it is a testament to the beauty that emerges when culture, community, and spirit move as one.”
This year’s lineup also includes emcee Nde Nkimbeng, known as “The Engineer MC,” and designer Aziz Ben Soumahoro, founder of The Art of Patterns, who will debut a creative fashion showcase.
“My heart is full and I am thrilled for the opportunity to chair this gala,” Tyehimba said. “The work that the African Think Tank does throughout the nation is so important, and critical to our advancement as a community.”
Ezeonu, who represents Grand Prairie as councilman and deputy mayor pro tem, called the event a chance to spotlight the African diaspora.
“I am excited to support the Ubuntu Gala,” he said. “The African Think Tank has been a beacon of transformation for the African diaspora not just in Dallas/Fort Worth, but in cities across the United States.”
Guests are encouraged to wear regal African attire or formal wear. Sponsorship levels range from $250 to $15,000, with general admission, VIP, and VIP + Meet and Greet packages available. Proceeds will benefit The African Think Tank’s programs in education, culture, and professional development across the African diaspora.
For tickets, sponsorships, and additional information, visit theafricanthinktank.com/gala.
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