AAI’s 33rd Annual Awards Gala
On the 19th of September, the Africa America Institute held its 33rd Annual Awards Gala at the Mandarin, New York. This year we celebrated and recognized the extraordinary dedication and success of African leaders in politics, commerce, the arts and technology.
The 2017 Honorees were:
- H.E. President Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, accepted the 2017 National Achievement Award on behalf of the People of the Republic of Ghana
- Nicole Amarteifio, Creator, Director and Producer of the critically acclaimed television show, An African City, accepted the 2017 Leadership in African Media & Arts Award
- Jim Ovia, Co-Founder and Chairman, Zenith Bank, accepted the 2017 Business Leader Award
- Bozoma Saint-John, Chief Brand Officer, Uber, accepted the 2017 Leadership and Innovation Award
Over 400 U.S., African and global leaders gathered for one of the most high profile events celebrating African achievement in New York City and contributed to a record breaking evening for revenue and attendance.
As part of his acceptance speech, Mr. Jim Ovia, Founding Chairman of Zenith Bank, announced his pledge of two million dollars for the establishment of a new scholarship program, The Jim Ovia Foundation Leaders Scholarship Fund in partnership with the Africa-America Institute.
The two-million-dollar pledge will finance four-year degree programs for high-achieving Africa students to attend world class institutions around the globe. Further information about the announcement can be found here.
A special thank you to all our sponsors who made this year’s gala not only possible, but such a success. We look forward to your continued support and hosting you at next year’s Gala.
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