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I AM Africa Gala (GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!!!)

August 22 @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm

  I AM AFRICA GALA
One Community, Many Nations

Hosted by Genesis Youth Foundation
GET YOUR TICKETS HERE:
https://givebutter.com/2026-i-am-africa-gala-bksua8

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating African heritage, culture, and community leadership.

The I Am Africa Gala is a vibrant cultural experience bringing together community leaders, families, youth and partners to celebrate the richness and diversity of Africa while supporting programs that empower the next generation.

This evening is rooted in the spirit of Ubuntu — “I am because we are.”
It is a celebration of identity, resilience, culture, and shared community.

Event Highlights

Cultural Performances – Experience music, dance, and storytelling from across the African continent.

Cuisine & Cultural Stations – Enjoy traditional foods and explore displays representing African countries and regions.

Community Storytelling – Hear powerful stories from community leaders, youth, and families about identity, belonging, and resilience.

Youth Leadership Recognition – Celebrating young leaders who are shaping the future of our communities.

Fundraising for Youth Programs – Support education, mentorship, sports, and leadership initiatives through Genesis Youth Foundation.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, August 22nd (I Am Africa Gala)
Time: Doors open at 5:30pm – 8pm (I Am Africa Gala)
Location: Genesis Learning Center: 1200 Walker Street, Des Moines, Iowa (formerly St Paul Lutheran Church)

Ticket Options

General Admission:

  • $75 per person (until July 31st)
  • $100 per person (starting August 1st)

Gala Table Sponsorship (8 guests):

  • $700 (until July 31st) | $800 (starting August 1st)

Community Partner Sponsorship

Support our foundation by purchasing an individual ticket or reserving a group table.

Proceeds support youth leadership and community programs.

What Guests Will Experience

The event is designed to create a welcoming cultural experience where guests feel connection, belonging, and pride in African heritage and identity.

Guests will experience:

  • Cultural performances
  • African cuisine
  • Youth leadership showcases
  • Cultural education stations
  • Networking with community leaders

Sponsorship Opportunities

Partner for Impact.

Sponsors & Collaborators
Sponsors and collaborators play a vital role in supporting culture, leadership, and community impact through the I Am Africa and Ubuntu events. Partner with us to uplift communities, celebrate diversity, and create meaningful opportunities for connection, growth, and lasting change.
Register Today

Celebrating Culture, Leadership, and Unity.

Experience an unforgettable evening of culture, entertainment, community, and philanthropy at the 2026 I Am Africa Gala. Join us as we celebrate African heritage while investing in the future of our youth.

 

Sign up: BECOME A SPONSOR

Download: FULL SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE

Sponsorship opportunities include:

Presenting Sponsor – $10,000

  • Recognized as the Presenting Sponsor for both the Summit and Gala
  • Full-page advertisement in the official event booklet
  • Logo prominently displayed on all event marketing materials (flyers, social media, programs, banners)
  • Speaking opportunity during the Gala program
  • Premier placement in press releases and media outreach
  • 8 complimentary Gala tickets (VIP seating)
  • Recognition plaque presented at the Gala
  • Dedicated social media spotlight (pre- and post-event)

Gold Sponsor – $5,000

  • Recognized as a Gold Sponsor
  • Half-page advertisement in the official event booklet
  • Logo featured on event marketing materials
  • Opportunity to host a workshop or have a booth at the Ubuntu Leadership Summit.
  • Verbal recognition during the Gala
  • Featured in event program and signage
  • 6 complimentary Gala tickets
  • Social media mentions before and after the event

Silver Sponsor – $2,500

  • Recognition as a Silver Sponsor in event materials and promotional materials.
  • Opportunity to host a workshop or have a booth at the Ubuntu Leadership Summit.
  • Four complimentary tickets to the I Am Africa Gala.
  • Recognition in press releases and media coverage.
  • Logo on banners, signage, and other promotional materials.

Bronze Sponsor – $1,000

  • Recognition as a Bronze Sponsor in event materials and promotional materials.
  • Logo on banners, signage, and other promotional materials.
  • Opportunity to host a workshop or have a booth at the Ubuntu Leadership Summit.
  • Two complimentary tickets to the I Am Africa Gala.

Friend of GYF – $500

  • Name listed in the event program
  • 1 complimentary Gala ticket
  • Opportunity to have a booth at the Ubuntu Leadership Summit.

Sponsors help ensure youth and families can attend and participate.

Additional Opportunities

  • Sponsor a Youth Leader ($250): Provide full participation support for one youth, including meals, transportation, and materials.
  • Birthday King & Queen Fundraising Champion Sponsor ($750): Sponsor prizes for the winners of our fundraising competition.

Why This Event Matters

The I Am Africa Gala is more than a celebration.

It is about:

  • Cultural pride
  • Community unity
  • Youth empowerment
  • Building bridges across communities

Together, we celebrate identity and invest in the future.

Details

Organizer

Venue

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