I AM Africa Gala & Ubuntu Leadership Summit
I AM AFRICA GALA
One Community, Many Nations
Hosted by Genesis Youth Foundation
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
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.
UBUNTU LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
Collective Leadership for Thriving Communities
Presented by Genesis Youth Foundation
The Ubuntu Leadership Summit is a community learning and leadership experience bringing together youth, families, professionals, and community partners to explore topics that strengthen individuals and communities.
The summit is rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu: “I am because we are.”
It focuses on leadership, education, financial empowerment, and wellness.
Summit Focus Areas
The summit includes interactive workshops designed to empower participants with practical knowledge and community connection.
Topics include:
- Financial Literacy
- Housing & Homeownership
- Health & Wellness
- Entrepreneurship
- Youth Leadership & Career Pathways
These sessions aim to provide real-world knowledge and lived experiences from community members and professionals.
Housing & Homeownership Workshop
Featured Workshop
Housing & Homeownership
This workshop explores the journey from renting to owning and the financial decisions that shape housing stability.
Topics include:
- Budgeting beyond the mortgage
- Credit and down payment planning
- Home inspections and hidden costs
- Life stage and housing decisions
- Lessons from experienced homeowners
Participants will hear real stories from homeowners, youth, and housing professionals.
Housing & Homeownership Workshop
Who Should Attend
The summit is designed for:
- Youth and young adults
- Families and first-time home buyers
- Community leaders
- Professionals and mentors
- Anyone interested in leadership and community growth
Summit Goals
The Ubuntu Leadership Summit aims to:
- Empower youth and families with knowledge
- Strengthen leadership in immigrant communities
- Promote financial and personal wellness
- Build strong community connections
Event Details
Date: Friday, August 21( Ubuntu Leadership Submit)
Time: 5pm – 8pm (Ubuntu Leadership Summit)
Location: Genesis Learning Center: 1200 Walker Street, Des Moines, Iowa (formerly St Paul Lutheran Church)
Summit Experience
Participants will engage in:
- Interactive workshops
- Community discussions
- Leadership panels
- Networking opportunities
- Youth engagement activities
Join the Movement
Ubuntu reminds us that our success is connected.
Through leadership, education, and community support, we can create stronger futures for our youth and families.
