On the 4th of February 2023, Grant A Smile CIC hosted a groundbreaking event, the Wakanda Experience Gala, at the exquisite Theydon Bois Golf Club in Essex. This all-African themed night aimed to raise funds for Grant A Smile CIC while celebrating the rich and beautiful continent of Africa. The event successfully showcased the exotic African culture, promoted diversity, and brought the community together in a spirit of inclusion.
This blog is aimed at highlighting the amazing planning team, volunteers, business partners, vendors, community leaders, and guests who made this milestone event a reality.
The Wakanda Experience Gala was a significant milestone for Grant A Smile CIC and the community as a whole. It provided an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate diversity, promoting a more culturally sensitive society. In the wake of recent events surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the event served as a means of connection and unity. By appreciating shared heritage and learning about cultural diversity, the gala fostered inclusivity, education, and social integration.
Guests at the Wakanda Experience Gala were treated to a night immersed in African culture and tradition. The event featured live African performances, captivating choreographed dances for audience participation, interactive games, engaging guest interaction activities, authentic African storytelling, and a delightful spread of African cuisine. The gala offered an unparalleled opportunity for cultural exploration, education, and exchange between the mainstream community and African communities, resulting in increased social cohesion and cultural identity development.
Essex residents and communities had the unique chance to participate in culturally inclusive events through the Wakanda Experience Gala. By disseminating cultural topics and facilitating cultural understanding, the event broadened perspectives and fostered appreciation for different traditions and customs. Such events have been shown to increase togetherness among group members by promoting cooperation and dialogue. The positive impact of this project on community social cohesion has been evident through its outcomes. For more details on the event, visit our website.
Joyce Obaseki BEM, the Founder and CEO of Grant A Smile CIC, expressed her gratitude to Theydon Bois Golf Club for providing the complimentary venue in support of their non-profit initiative. She emphasized that the gala was a long-cherished dream come true, a celebration of inclusion and diversity. Joyce extended her heartfelt thanks to the planning team and the guests who attended the event, acknowledging their regal presence in true Wakanda style and their instrumental role in making this dream a reality.
The founder, Joyce Obaseki BEM, was also honored with the prestigious High Sheriff of Essex Community Service Award, an accolade that holds immense significance for the organization. This esteemed recognition highlights the exceptional dedication and impact of Joyce’s work in serving the community. The award acknowledges Joyce’s unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in people’s lives through Grant A Smile CIC’s initiatives. It not only recognizes the founder’s personal accomplishments but also brings attention to the organization’s mission and the importance of community service. The High Sheriff of Essex Community Service Award not only honors Joyce Obaseki’s outstanding contributions but also elevates the profile of Grant A Smile CIC, inspiring others to join in their efforts and further amplifying the impact they can make in the community.
The success of the Wakanda Experience Gala wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and hard work of the planning team, who were also volunteers. Their tireless efforts ensured every aspect of the event was meticulously planned and executed to perfection. Additionally, the support from business partners who joined as sponsors and vendors who went above and beyond contributed greatly to the overall success of the event. Their generosity and commitment helped create an unforgettable experience for all attendees. A huge thanks to Taptap Send, Eminent Financial, Longrich UK, Marriott Bonvoy and TNL Community Fund.
Events like The Wakanda Experience Gala are important as they provide a platform for celebrating diversity, promoting cultural understanding, and fostering a sense of community. By immersing attendees in an all-African themed night, such events showcase the richness and beauty of different cultures, demystify stereotypes, and encourage dialogue and interaction among people from diverse backgrounds. These gatherings offer opportunities for education, cultural exchange, and appreciation, ultimately contributing to social cohesion, inclusivity, and a more harmonious society. By embracing and celebrating our differences, events like The Wakanda Experience Gala play a vital role in building bridges, breaking down barriers, and creating a more united and accepting community.
To conclude, the Wakanda Experience Gala, organized by Grant A Smile CIC, was an exceptional event that celebrated diversity, promoted cultural understanding, and brought communities together in a spirit of inclusion. The gala’s success was attributed to the dedicated planning team, supportive business partners, generous sponsors, exceptional vendors, and the enthusiastic participation of community leaders and guests. This milestone event served as a testament to the power of unity, embracing diversity, and creating a culturally sensitive and cohesive community.
Grant A Smile CIC, through the Wakanda Experience Gala, has set a precedent for future culturally inclusive events that strengthen bonds and foster understanding among diverse cultural backgrounds. Grant A Smile, a social enterprise is on a mission of “changing lives every day” and the Wakanda Experience Gala was a testament to this mission.
If you too want to be a part of someone’s life changing experience, we’d love to hear from you. Visit our website or contact us (02030047286).