AFROEUROPA GALA NIGHT 2023 – SECOND EDITION

Maureen Layokun, Publisher Charming Magazine & Convener AFROEUROPA with His Worshipful, Mayor of Southwark, Cllr. Michael Sittu & Wife
Maureen Layokun, Publisher Charming Magazine & Convener AFROEUROPA with His Worshipful, Mayor of Southwark, Cllr. Michael Sittu & Wife

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. 

1.Convener, AFROEUROPA GALA NIGHT & Publisher, Charming Magazine
Convener, AFROEUROPA GALA NIGHT & Publisher, Charming Magazine

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.

2.Maureen Layokun with MCs Emeka Smith & Tokunbo Sonowo
Maureen Layokun with MCs Emeka Smith & Tokunbo Sonowo
Maureen Layokun and family
Maureen Layokun and family

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.

Dance Performer, Katie S
Dance Performer, Katie S

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.  

Performance by Oduduwa Talking Drummers
Performance by Oduduwa Talking Drummers

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. 

Fashion Show by Kitted Fashion
Fashion Show by Kitted Fashion

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. 

Performance by Ecuador UK
Performance by Ecuador UK

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)

 

lady Morenike Ajayi (MBE) – Guest Speaker
Lady Morenike Ajayi (MBE) – Guest Speaker

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:

Maureen Layokun with His Worshipful, Mayor of Southwark, Cllr. Michael Sittu & Wife
Maureen Layokun, Publisher Charming Magazine & Convener AFROEUROPA with His Worshipful, Mayor of Southwark, Cllr. Michael Sittu & Wife
NDDIS founder, Chief Bimbo Afolayan and wife, with Maureen Layokun & Husband
Maureen Layokun with NDDIS founder, Chief Bimbo Afolayan and wife
Maureen & Tokunbo Layokun with Pastors Yinka & Titi Akintunde
Maureen & Tokunbo Layokun with Pastors Yinka & Titi Akintunde of Diadem Church, Romford – London
Maureen with husband, Sonny Fash, Gbenga Alade (MD, GT Bank), Tokunbo Akinyemi
Maureen & Tokunbo Layokun, with from left, Tokunbo Akinyemi (GT Bank UK), Gbenga Alade (MD, GT Bank), Sonny Fash 
CANUK Chairman Hon. Ayo Akinfe with CANUK Excos, Rose Graham & Toyin Solaru Balogun
CANUK Chairman Hon. Ayo Akinfe with CANUK Excos, Rose Peter Graham & Toyin Solaru Balogun
Media Consultant Lady Doyin Ola with other guests
Lady Jane, Ms Kemi Shekoni, Gbenga Osifeso, Mrs A., Media Consultant Lady Doyin Ola with Maria & Caz Longe
Ambassador Bukar Abdusalam (Nigeria High Commission UK) presents Hon. Omorede Osifo (Deputy Treasurer, APC Nigeria) with AFROEUROPA 2023 Global Impact Award
Ambassador Bukar Abdusalam (Nigeria High Commission UK) presents Hon. Omorede Osifo (Deputy Treasurer, APC Nigeria) with AFROEUROPA 2023 Global Impact Award
AFROEUROPA 2023 Leadership Award presented by The Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank UK, Mr. Gbenga Alade to Dr Boma & Mrs June Douglas
AFROEUROPA 2023 Leadership Award presented by The Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank UK, Mr. Gbenga Alade to Dr Boma & Mrs June Douglas
Presented by The Mayor of Southwark, Cllr Michael Sittu, Martins Sadoh receives the AFROEUROPA 2023 Award for Governance, Environmental & Social Excellence on behalf of Hon. Minister Prince Clem Agba (CON)
Presented by The Mayor of Southwark, Cllr Michael Sittu, Martins Sadoh receives the AFROEUROPA 2023 Award for Governance, Environmental & Social Excellence on behalf of Hon. Minister Prince Clem Agba (CON)
Raffle Draw star prize winner
Raffle Draw star prize winner
Cross section of guests
Dr Daniel Moses & family
Distinguished members of Etsako Progressive Union U.K.
Distinguished members of Etsako Progressive Union U.K.
MC Flakky added humour to the event with a comedy skit
MC Flakky added humour to the event with a comedy skit

More Cross Section of Guests below:

#AfroEuropa23

#Positivelyunited

#Allbeautifultogether

 

6 COMMENTS

  1. Fantastic 2nd Edition of the AfroEuropa Gala Night. Grateful to all our Guests and Dignitaries that honoured our Invitation.
    Grateful and Thankful 🙏

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