International Focus Magazine Vol. 3, #7 | Page 14

seen on the scene TASTE OF AFRICA GALA JULY 6, 2018 THE BALLROOM AT BAYOU PLACE HOSTED BY [FORMER] HOUSTON ROCKETS PLAYER LUC MBAH A MOUTE The first annual TASTE OF AFRICA GALA hosted by Houston Rockets player Luc Mbah A Moute was a prestigious A-list fundraising event that included an African dinner, live and silent auctions, comedy performance, traditional dancing, and a cocktail reception making the celebration of Af- rica complete. Houston’s Afro Culture Weekend is an international celebra- tion that raises awareness about Africa, the mother of civilization. By 2023, it strives to be described as the biggest celebratory experience in African culture. Master and Mistress of Ceremonies, Joshua Dada and Mercy Jordan, graciously introduced the traditional entertainment and honorees. Mayor Syl- vester Turner delivered an inspiring speech, Hon. Amanda Edwards followed introducing the keynote speaker and our host for the evening, Luc Mbah A Moute. Jeffrey Wallace, President of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce introduced the evening’s award honorees — The M12 Capital Achievement Award: Dr. Seun Adigun, Nigeria’s Historic Women’s Bobsled Driver and the M12 Outstanding Community Award: Gayle Brand, Presi- dent Houston Division, Chicago Title Houston. Kevin Scully ran an intense live auction raising much needed funds for the foundation. Closing remarks were given by Raoul Keddy, Chair of the Afro Culture Host Committee and Managing director of Raked International. Also on the Host Committee are Mazda Denon – Mayor’s Office of Trade & International Affairs, Antwi At- uahene – Noir et Noire, Ashley Aminah-Marque Productions, Oumar Orozi – Ghost Label. 14 iF Magazine | August 2018