ADC 2010 First Annual Gala
In partnership with the Associated B ank, Cedar-Riverside Neightborhood Revitalization, Comcast, the City of Minneapolis, the Census 2010, SharePoint Credit Union, SocExp.com, and US Bank, the African Development Center (ADC) hosted its first annual Gala event open to the public. The event was held at the University of Minnesota McNamara Alumni Center and hosted approximately two hundred people.
The festivities began at 6pm with a silent auction in the Johnson Great Room, and was followed by the Titambe West African Dance Troupe who entertained the guests in their traditional outfits and their rendition of African drums and dance. Later, a delicious dinner of Ugali and Sukuma with butter chicken breast was served, along with mango couscous and roasted vegetables for the vegetarian guests. An appetizing array of deserts were served, including a banana cheesecake with a caramel sauce, chocolate dipped pineapple, and chocolate truffle tart.
After dinner, there were several speakers. Bamson Fadipe, manager for the West Lakes District Wells Fargo and ADC Board Chair spoke about his involvement with the ADC. Hussein Samatar, ADC Executive Director then took the podium and gave a presentation about the work the ADC has done in the community and the success the ADC has had. Mr. Samatar surprised everyone by later joining the African troupe on the drums and showing off his talent. The last speaker was Mike Christenson, Director of the Community Planning and Development Department at the City of Minneapolis. He gave a speech on the effect the immigrant communities have had on the local economy here in the city of Minneapolis, and also spoke about the unprecedented success the ADC has had in winning for the third year in a row, the best small business lender. He spoke about the optimism felt in the city and the work the ADC has done.
Other entertainers present were the Augsburg College Jazz Ensemble that exemplified their commitment and celebration of diversity by playing with Rahma “Ruuxi” Ali, a Somali vocalist based in the Twin Cities. Rahma frequently travels across the United States and is known for her distinctive voice and uplifting music. Also playing was Ilyaas Band, which in Somali means “beam of light” and consists of several famous Somali musicians, they frequently perform around the Twin Cities at various events and celebrations. This eclectic group of entertainers turned the event into a celebration and ensured the success of the ADC’s first annual Gala. We look forward to next year’s celebrations.
