During the opening week of the United Nations General Assembly, The Africa-America Institute will host a spectacular 30th Annual Awards Gala on Monday, September 22, at Gotham Hall, 1356 Broadway at 36th Street, in New York City.

Hosted by CNN International anchor Isha Sesay, distinguished U.S. and African leaders and top diplomats will gather for one of the largest and most anticipated events celebrating African achievement in New York City. The black-tie affair will begin with a reception at 6:00 p.m. followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m.

The Awards Gala theme is “Powering Africa’s Future through Regional and Global Partnerships”. The gala will draw attention to how education empowers African youth to reach their full potential while being catalytic in society’s socioeconomic transformation through regional and global partnerships.

South African singer Yvonne Chaka Chaka will sing a special musical tribute to 20 years of South African democracy.

At the Awards Gala, H.E. President Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire and former chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), will be honored with the AAI 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award. A pathfinder and role model throughout his career, AAI will recognize President Ouattara’s achievements in working towards creating socio-economic progress in Africa and globally by promoting regional and global partnerships throughout his lifelong career as a public servant. He is also an AAI alumnus.

An experienced banker and international business lawyer, Vivienne Yeda Apopo, Director-General of the East African Development Bank (EADB), will receive the AAI 2014 Business Leader Award. Professor Thandika Mkandawire, Chair of African Development at the London School of Economics (LSE), will be presented with the AAI 2014 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

General Electric will receive the AAI 2014 Corporate Responsibility Award, in recognition of its commitment to empowering livelihoods in Africa through education and employment of Africans in senior leadership positions, and promoting trade and economic growth. Jay Ireland, President and CEO of General Electric Africa, will accept the award on behalf of GE.

The evening’s program will feature the presentation of awards followed by a moderated “Conversation on Africa” focusing on fostering greater regional and global partnerships for development with honorees.

Visit the 30th Annual Awards Gala page for more information.