The ‘Who is Who’ in the BME Community showed up LIVE, at the King George Banqueting Suite, Holiday Inn Express, Newbury Park, London IG2 7RH, on Saturday 30th September 2023, to add grace to the 2nd Edition of AfroEuropa Gala Night 2023.
A top class event initiated by Charming Production Limited, the AFROEUROPA Gala Night transcends cultural boundaries, bringing people from different ethnicities and backgrounds together to embrace and celebrate the richness of diversity.
This year’s event compered by two of UK’s finest MCs – Tokunbo Sonowo and MC Emeka Smith, a well-blended duo, kicked off with a glamorous red-carpet affair, where guests were welcomed to a professional photography session to capture invaluable moments for posterity. This paved way for a relaxed networking session amongst guests, fostering unity, synergy and collaboration.
Dignitaries in attendance included Ambassador Bukar Abdulsalam (Representing the Nigeria High Commissioner to UK), His Worshipful Councillor Michael Situ (Mayor of Southwark), Mr. Christian Okeke (Head Consular, Education & Welfare – Nigeria High Commission UK), Hon. Omorede Osifo (Deputy National Treasurer APC Nigeria), Hon. Desire Nsirim (Rtd. Nigerian Police Commissioner & Bayelsa State APC Nigeria Gubernatorial Aspirant), Mr Martins Sadoh (Representing Hon. Prince Clem Agba, Immediate Past Minister for State Budget), Mr. Gbenga Alade (Managing Director, GT Bank UK), Otunba Bimbo Roberts Folayan (NDDIS Founder/Chairman), Mr. Ayo Akinfe (Chairman CANUK), Dr Boma Douglas (Immediate past Chairman CANUK), Hon. Tunde Doherty (Chairman APC UK Chapter/Committee of Diaspora Chairmen), Dr Wale Towolawi (Wilton Dental Practice), Dr Yinka Akintunde (Senior Pastor, Diadem Ministries International), Hon. Muyiwa Adesua (APC UK SW Chairman), Councillor Tunde Ajisola (Luton Borough Council), Otunba Bolaji Falase; amongst other respectable dignitaries and guests.
The standout moments of this year’s event include the keynote speech by Lady Morenike Ajayi (MBE) which highlighted the height that can be attained by embracing diversity and promoting peaceful coexistence within the community.
Various interactive elements were incorporated into the event to enhance the guests’ experience. First, it was a colourful stage performance by the amazing Ecuador youth performers, followed by an electrifying dance performance by Ms. KS. Next in line was Flakky MC, who filled the room with laughter with a comedy skit. And lastly, an explosive performance by the iconic Ayan De First and the Oduduwa Talking Drummers, lit the stage on fire.
Kitted Fashion turned up well prepared to ‘WOW’ the guests, presenting a spectacular fashion show with bespoke designs that perfectly blended the African and European haute couture, fusing both cultures into styles that showcase the unique beauty that diversity offers. All together, these side attractions clearly depicted the essence of the overall event.
Guests were treated to an electrifying atmosphere by the legendary Omo Whyte, whose perfect flow of music, cutting across cultural boundaries kept most of the guests on the dance floor for as long as possible.
The 360 Degrees Camera was an outlet for extra fun for guests, while the raffle draw added extra excitement to the night, as lucky winners were presented with valuable prizes.
Various available options from a range of African delicacies to European gourmet treats, champagne, fine wine and juices that reflected the fusion of flavours from both continents, left guests spoilt for choice.
Lastly, in recognition and appreciation of the outstanding contributions and positive impact of certain individuals to the community, awards were presented to the following individuals:
- Prince Clem Ikanade Agba, CON – (AfroEuropa Award For Governance, Environmental & Social Excellence)
- Omorede E. Osifo (AfroEuropa Global Impact Award)
- Dr Boma & Mrs June Douglas (AfroEuropa Leadership Award)
- Dr Johnson UK-Wade (AfroEuropa Award For Exemplary Community Service)
- Dr Daniel Moses (AfroEuropa Star Achievement Award)
- Chief Mrs Ngozi Dike (AfroEuropa Award For Humanitarian Service)
- Princess Rita Anigboro – Miracle Ward Prayer Ministry (AfroEuropa Award For Voluntary Service)
- Mrs Okiemute Uhomoibhi (AfroEuropa Stand Out Performer Award)
Special thanks to GT Bank UK, SEND by Flutter Wave, and all our other Corporate and Individual Sponsors for their generous donations and support towards making the AFROEUROPA Gala Night 2023 a huge success.
Building on the enormous success of the 2nd Edition of AFROEUROPA Gala Night, plans are already in motion for the 2024 Edition of this trailblazing event. WATCH THIS SPACE!
More photos below:
More Cross Section of Guests below:
##Positivelyunited
#Allbeautifultogether