Queen Fifi Soumah the reigning Miss Africa USA, having embarked on her journey as a Goodwill Ambassador will be supporting yet another community project, this time, the Gambian Christian People’s Association. The 6th Annual Weekend of Fun event promises to be a lot of fun for a very good cause.

The GCPA DC has successfully awarded more than 100 scholarships to date to the University of The Gambia, tertiary institutes and secondary and primary schools. These scholarships go directly to the Gambia and support students based on need and academic merit.  GCPA  DC will continue to organize “Operation Clothe Gambia” which has now become an event to collect clothing, books and toys in Maryland to ship and distribute to the needy both in urban and rural areas.

GCPA  DC recently partnered with other Gambian organizations in Maryland on a successful “Support the Gambia Flood Victims” fundraiser which brought in over $6,500.00 in monetary contributions and shipped a 20-foot sea-land container full of clothes, shoes, food, exercise books, and other household items valued at $16000.00 to The Gambia that was distributed by The Gambia Red Cross Society.

One hundred percent of the funds we raise through our annual gala go directly to support projects in The Gambia. As we grow, we plan on embarking on bigger projects that will continue to directly impact Gambians all over the world. Gambian Christian Peoples Association of Metropolitan DC (GCPA-DC) is registered 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization.

Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah feels very honored to have been invited as a Special Guest to support the GCPA DC fund raising event. She has kept a busy schedule since winning the crown, supporting various charitable causes across the United States of America.  She hopes to continue promoting such noble causes as she continues her successful reign as Queen.

Queen Fifi Soumah is also very happy to join the GCPA DC Event Guest of Honor,  Rev Father Joseph Gough, a household name in The Gambia as described by writer Ebrima Sankareh in the Gambia Echo.  Rev Father Gough became an Honorary Citizen of The Gambia a couple of years ago, granted a Gambian Diplomatic Passport and named as The Gambia’s Ambassador at Large by the Head of State of the Republic of Gambia. Father Gough was recognized for his service to the African Nation promoting education and sportsmanship.  PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT FATHER GOUGH

Queen Fifi Soumah invites all her friends and supporters to come out and support the Gambian Christian People’s Association of DC Fund Raiser. If you plan to attend this Splendid event, just remember to put on your best gear as you can see from last year event, it was a ‘dress to impress’ red carpet event.

For Information on Tickets and to learn more about the organization, Please visit the GCPA DC website:

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION

The Fascinating Africans Committed to Excellence Awards (F.A.C.E. List)

The Fascinating Africans Committed to Excellence Awards (FACE LIST) is the brain Child of FACE2FACE Africa, a media company highlighting the excellence of Africans world wide.  This is an annual event designed to honor Africans who are committed to excellence in their respective fields in an effort to contribute to the betterment of Africa’s image. A brighter Africa’s future is directly tied to the struggles of individuals who commit themselves to making Africa’s potential realized globally.

Face2face Africa believes that partnership and collaboration is one of the keys to restoring Africa’s image. For this reason, F2F Africa has chosen one non-for-profit organization that is contributing immensely to the development of the continent to be the beneficiary of a portion of the proceeds from the event.

Jewish Heart for Africa is the type of organization that Face2face Africa likes to partner with. This not for profit organization is committed to teaching Africans in villages who lack resources and education, the importance of being self-reliant. All of Jewish Heart for Africa’s initiatives are hands on and are geared to ensure that the local people learn how to create their own and be self sufficient from the process.

Queen Fifi Soumah and All Time African Star, Awilo Logumba at the 2011 F.A.C.E. LIST Awards in New York City.

The individuals who are being honored are the kind of people who will stop at nothing to be the flag bearers of Africa. They are our educators, our freedom fighters, our leaders, our culturists, our philanthropists, our artists and entertainers who have made a difference within the continent of Africa. Face2Face Africa seeks to ACKNOWLEDGE their hard work and commitment to enhancing Africa’s image with the F.A.C.E. List Awards.

Queen Fifi Soumah and Ghanaian Movie Star Jackie Appiah at the 2011 F.A.C.E. LIST Awards in New York City.

Queen Fifi Soumah and Princess Priscilla, 2nd Princess (Miss Africa Pagean 2010) attending the 2011 F.A.C.E. LIST Awards in New York City.

The mission of Jewish Heart for Africa is to bring sustainable Israeli technologies to rural African villages. The organization facilitates development in Africa using clean, alternative technologies in order to fight climate change, conserve water, and provide for sustainable economic development. The organization’s main projects include project soil, which installs Israeli solar panels to provide power to schools and clinics, and water pumping systems. Their other major project, Project Agro, uses innovative agricultural practices such as drip irrigation to make agriculture possible in regions of drought, providing food for villages and promoting eco- growth. The organization currently operates in Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Uganda and aspires to expand to other African countries.

For more information on Jewish Heart for Africa, visit: www.jhasol.org

Please also visit FACE2FACE  and learn more about the organization on their website. Simply click on the link below.

http://facelist.face2faceafrica.com/about-us

The Reigning Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah graced this occasion as a Special Guest of the Foundation to support the mission and vision of the organization.  Education of children especially girls is very close to Miss Fifi Soumah’s heart as she launches her own Foundation ‘Tears Away’ which provides scholarships for young girls in Guinea.

Queen Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah on the Red Carpet at the MacDella Couper Foundation Fund Raiser in New York City.

The evening, hosted by Actor and activist, Mr. Isaiah Washington,  kick ed off with a live musical performance by Pop diva Zelma Davis, a collective designers runway show featuring African inspired garments designed exclusively for L ‘Africana Night by a range of designers including: Korto Momolu, Jedda Khan, Sunhee Hwang,  Issa Sorogo, Taylor Forrest, Lucia Eastman, Irina Shabayeva, Tedd Ion, Farai Simoyi and Selma Berisalic Starfinger. Following the show, each dress was  auctioned off.

Queen Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah and Renowned Actor Isaiah Washington Interviewed by Hollywood TV

The Red Carpet reception and the taste of Africa Banquet kicked off at 6:30pm with the award presentation, runway show and performances starting promptly at 8:00 pm.  The night  included special appearances by: Actor Matt Dillon, and roster of world-class models including Millen Magese, Georgette Beidel, Animata Steele, Aminat Ayinde, Ashley Harris, Danijela Lazarevic, and Melissa Arocha to name a few.

Queen Fifi Soumah is interviewed by the Press at the MacDella Cooper Foundation Event in New York City.

L’Africana is a brand platform built around the design, creation, promotion, and distribution of African fashion, art, music, accessories, culture & cuisine. To date, African-inspired brands have primarily catered to Africans and a small number of non-Africans. L’Africana aspires to be a brand with strong international appeal through the fusion of African aesthetics and sensibilities with modern design, quality, and workmanship.

Ms Korto Momolu,  Fashion Designer from Project Runway and Lady Kate Njeuma, CEO of Miss Africa USA.

All proceeds from the event  benefited the MCF Academy for orphans and abandoned children in Monrovia, Liberia. The MCF Academy is the first tuition free boarding school dedicated to orphan and abandoned children in post-war Liberia. The Academy opened its doors on Christmas Day 2010 and will ultimately house and educate 200 children.

PLEASE JOIN FIFI SOUMAH (MISS AFRICA USA 2010-2011

ALONG WITH

ADIAT DISU, ALSION ROACH, CHENISA SHANNON, CHEREAH JACKSON, CHRISTINE KONTENSKI, ERIN BROWNE, FARRAH FOGARTY, INGVAR LJUNGGVIST, MALINDA KNOWLES, MARTIN SEGAL, MATTHEW K. SIMON, MELISSA BLASSO, PAMELA BELL, PAMELA BROGDEN, PETER JALLAH, SIMON TIEMTORE, STEPHANIE MATTERA, TAYLOR SELE, TILO STOLTZ, TONIEMAE KING ANDREWS, VERNA BROGDEN

AT L’AFRICANA NIGHT, A NEW YORK FASHION WEEK FINALE PARTY- STARRING POP DIVA ZELMA DAVIS, BROADWAY SUPER STAR SAYCON SENGBLOH, SUPERMODELS GOERGIE BADIEL, MILLEN MAGESE, AND ACTOR, MATT DILLON.

HONORING BARRY SEGAL, BISILA BOKOKO AND ANNA SCHILAWSKI.

HOSTED BY ACTOR & ACTIVIST

ISAIAH WASHINGTON

2 W 64TH STREET

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2011

6:00PM – 10:00PM.

11PM AFTERPARTY

WWW.MACDELLACOOPER.ORG

YOUR TICKET INCLUDES ACCESS TO THE AFTERPARTY

L’Africana™ Night is a celebration of the fashion, music, culture & cuisine of Africa! All proceeds from this event will benefit the MCF Academy. Special guests include: Actors: Isaiah Washington & Matt Dillon; Pop Divas: Zelma Davis & Saycon Sengbloh; Designers: Irina Shabayeva, Korto Momolu; and a roster of world-class models including Millen Magese, Georgie Badiel, and Aminat Ayinde to name a few.

L’Africana™ Night is sponsored by The Segal Family Foundation and Greylock Capital Partners. The event is being held @ 2 W 64TH STREET from 6:00PM to 10:00PM and includes an After-Party starting at 11PM.

Miss Africa USA 2010 Fifi Soumah attends the 40th Africare Bishop John T. Walker Memorial Dinner in Washington DC

The 40th year Celebrating goodwill :

AFRICARE  Bishop John T. Walker Memorial Dinner, LEGACY OF PROGRESS. It was a dinner like no other, honoring :

• His Excellency Nelson R Mandela, former President of South Africa
• Mr. Rex W. Tillerson, Chairman and CEO, Exon Mobil Corporation
• Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Managing Director, World Bank.

Miss Africa USA 2010 Fifi Soumah and Lady Kate Njeuma, guests of AFRICARE, were in attendance at this great event honoring world leaders who have and are still making a big difference in Africa.

AFRICARE: Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah arrives at the AFRICARE Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner in Washington DC

Bishop Enrich has described John Walker as ‘one of the greatest bishops in the history of the church of the Episcopal Church’

“It is difficult to remember AFRICARE as it was in 1974 when John Walker agreed to Chair its Board of Directors, a position he held until his death. Just as he was a buider and motivator of his church, so he proved a builder of AFRICARE and a motivator to those Americans and Africans who carry out its work in Africa.  He loved Africa and the great energy and beauty of her peoples. He dedicated years of his life to his vision of what  he knew Africa could become” (AFRICARE)

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner with Zondwa Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela and Zindzi Mandela, daughter of Nelson Mandela receive President Mandela's Award by AFRICARE.

The Awards Ceremony was grand indeed, with the most vibrant Master of Ceremonies Mr. Kojo Nnamdi, host of the Kojo Nnamdi show, WAMU FM 88.5, the night was certainly full of excitement, very informative and a great opportunity to network within the world of Non-Profit Organizations represented.

After an invocation by Rev. Vincent P Harris,of St Georges Episcopal Church and a welcome address by Mr. W. Frank Fountain, Chairman of Africare Board of Directors and Chairman of the Walter P. Chrysler Museum Foundation and Advisor to Chrysler,  the guests immediately delved into the most delicious dinner for the night. While dinner was served,  the honorees were introduced one at a time to receive their very distinguished Awards.

Africare 2010 Award Recipient, Mr. Rex W. Tillerson, Chairman and CEO, Exxon Mobil Corporation

Presentation of the Corporate Service Award was officiated by Mr. W. Frank Fountain, Chairman of Africare Board of Directors and Chairman of the Walter P. Chrysler Museum Foundation and Adviser to Chrysler. The Corporate Service Award was presented to Mr. Rex. W. Tillerson, Chairman and CEO, Exxon Mobil Corporation for its partnership and its contributions to progress and economic development in Africa.

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to His Excellency Nelson R Mandela, former President of South Africa.  At 92 President Mandela was not able to make it but he was represented by his family, Zondwa Mandela, his grandson and his daughter Zindzi Mandela.  His award was presented to the family by Ms Lauretta Bruno, AFRICARE Board Member and Committee Chair of the Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner.  Zondwa Mandela read the acceptance speech of his grand Father while Zindzi gave the audience a brief background about their lives growing up without their father and also gave some background information on the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner: Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah and Honoree Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Managing Director of the World Bank.

The Bishop John T. Walker Distinguished Humanitarian Service Award was presented by Dr. Darius Mans, President of AFRICARE and that Award went to non other than Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Managing Director of The World Bank for the sweeping economic and social reforms that she made to improve Nigeria’s Financial stability. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s position at the World Bank includes special oversight for the bank’s operations in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, South Asia and Africa. She has been at the forefront of the Bank’s efforts to help countries hard hit by the food, fuel and financial crisis. Dr. Okonjo Iweala has received numerous awards including Time Magazine’s European Hero of the Year Award 2004, Euromoney Magazine Global Finance Minister of the Year 2005. In 2006, she was named by Forbes Magazine as one of the 100 most powerful women in the world.  Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was educted at Harvard University and has a PhD in Regional Economics and Development from the Massachussetts Institute of Technology. She is married to Surgeon Dr. Ikemba Iweala and has four children.  (source: AFRICARE)

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on stage to receive her AWARD accompanied by Her Excellency Ellen Sirleaf Johnson, President of Liberia.

AFRICARE programs focus on the following areas of need in Africa:

• Health and HIV/AIDS
• Food Security and Agriculture
• Water and Sanitation
• Empowerment of Women through Small Business Enterprise.

Africare Success stories around the continent was shared with the guests at the Bishop John T. Walker Memorial Dinner  and we saw first hand the impact that Africare is having in the lives people in need.  Africare is doing great humanitarian service in Africa, providing sustainable AID programs and empowering communities.

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner in Washington DC, Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah meets renowned Actress and Singer MYA. MYA is working with AFRICARE on her Projects in Africa. MYA LOVES AFRICA.

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner: Miss Africa USA with Mr. and Mrs Macek. Mr. Macek representing World Vision at the Africare memorial dinner, networking with Miss Africa USA Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah who is from the Republic of Guinea Conakry.

Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah was very happy to meet and network with  Executives from the ONE organization in Washington DC.

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner more. Guests at the dinner were pleased to meet with Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah who also shared her story and platform : Fighting against Female Genital Mutilation and promoting Education of Young African Girls from under-privileged backgrounds.

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner, Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah with Ms Toshi of Africare and her husband.

AFRICARE: Bishop John T Walker Memorial Dinner

Miss Africa USA 2010 Fifi Soumah and Lady Kate Njeuma CEO of Miss Africa USA Scholarship Pageant with guests at the AFRICARE BISHOP JOHN T. WALKER DINNER 2010, honoring His Excellency President Nelson Mandela, Mr. Rex W. Tillerson and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, at the National Building Museum in Washington DC.

“I make no excuses about it, I am like Robin Hood. I take from the rich and give to the poor. It is high time at last for the world to wake up and do more for Africa.” ( Leon H Sullivan)

The Leon H. Sullivan Foundation empowers underprivileged people worldwide by promoting the principles of self-help and social responsibility.  These goals are the articulation of the vision of the Reverend Leon Howard Sullivan.

Leon H Sullivan Foundation Africa Policy Forum  ‘ A Vision For the 21st Century’

President Olusegun Obasanjo and Ambassador Andrew Young having an interactive discussion with guests at the Africa Policy Forum in Atlanta.

The City of Atlanta played host to biggest Africa Diaspora Event last September. For the first time, the Leon H Sullivan Foundation’s Africa Summit was held outside of Africa and it was no doubt and by no surprise that Atlanta was selected as the host city.  Home of the grand father of the Civil Rights Movement Rev. Martin Luther King, Atlanta is not only diverse, the city is also blessed with plenty of Southern Hospitality.  The Sullivan Summit 2010 themed as ‘The Africa Policy Forum’ pulled together some power houses from the likes of President Olusegun Obasanjo and Ambassador Andrew Young to the Mayor of the City of Atlanta to the everyday African or African American eager to make that connection with the homeland, leverage the network for development and connect with the past.

The City of Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed learns of his ancestral origin after DNA Testing.

An event which saw a huge number of African-American leaders and members of the public take a DNA testing to trace their roots to the Motherland. Results were announced at the Presidential Gala for Mayor Kasim Reed and other leaders.  The Nigerian Consul General His Excellency Okafor was there to welcome them home. It was quite an awesome experience to witness the leaders receive their results and the excitement in the air, something very unique indeed.

Meet the President and CEO of the Leon H Sullivan Foundation, Hope Sullivan Masters, daughter of the great humanitarian and  activist Leon H Sullivan who is of Late.  Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah like many women was very inspired by Hope Sullivan Masters, role model for young women of our generation.  Hope’s commitment to continue with the work that her father started with great energy and dedication makes her a very special person.  The impact of the Foundation is felt in the lives of the communities they serve, the lives they uplift and the hope they bring to millions of Africans and Africa diaspora and people around the world.

“This year, and for the first time ever, the Sullivan Foundation organized The Africa Policy Forum: A Vision for the 21st Century, held in Atlanta, GA, intended to bridge the gap between Africa, the U.S. and citizens of both in an event which featured:

• High level policy forum on the Obama Administration’s policy to Africa
• Exclusive networking opportunities
• Exciting entertainment
• Critical education, health and economic opportunities
• Celebrities and live cultural events
• Sports events and much more for four full days in the international tourism capital of Atlanta, Georgia” (courtesy of  Leon H Sullivan Foundation Website”)

Miss Africa USA Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah attends the Presidential Gala.

The Presidential Gala kicked off with an elegant banquet at the beautiful Marriott Marquee in Downtown Atlanta. The Decor was a splendid display of African ornaments combined with a beautiful layout of  of exotic African fruits and foods as well as Art.  Miss Africa USA 2010 Fifi Soumah from Guinea represented very well, a face of Africa that guests were happy to meet and talk to and learn one or two things about Africa as well as share her platform and project.  Miss Soumah is the first African Queen to address a women’s rights issue plaguing Africa today ‘Female Genital Mutilation’  She was very happy to share her passion with others.

The Miss Africa USA team represented at the Presidential banquet: L _ R, Pageant Manager, Miss Linda Arrey, CEO and Founder of Miss Africa USA and President of African Women’s Development Foundation USA, Lady Kate Njeuma,  a fellow guest and Queen Fifi Soumah, Miss Africa USA, all having a great time at the banquet.

Miss Linda Arrey the Pageant Manager and Miss Africa USA Fifi   Soumah

share a moment with Ambassador Andrew Young

The Banquet was not only entertaining but very informative as well.  An opportunity to hear from the Chairman of the Leon H Sullivan Foundation,  Ambassador Andrew Young,  The Founder and President of the Foundation Hope Sullivan Masters who talked about the work and commitment of her father to bridge the gap between Africa and the United States and how much her vision lives to ensure that her father’s legacy never dies. She is herself a legend for exerting so much energy to ensure that the cause is strengthen day after day and year after year.  The elegantly dressed Hope Sullivan’s speech paid tribute to all sponsors and supporters and the entire team of the Leon H Sullivan Foundation, who are making things happen for the Foundation and world at large, from Coca Cola to Chevron and more.

Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah was also very happy to meet and chat with the City of Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed.  In his speech at the Presidential Gala, Mayor Reed emphasized the fact that Atlanta remains and International City with great diversity and a rich culture, very hospitable and he welcomes all visitors from around the world who visit Atlanta or who make Atlanta their home.  UP ATL!!!!!!

Pictured above, Ms Engrid Saunders Jones of Coca Cola and Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah at the Leon H Sullivan Presidential gala in Atlanta GA. Coca Cola is a proud sponsor of the Leon H Sullivan Foundation and Coca Cola Africa Foundation is also doing a lot of humanitarian work in Africa from Clean Water Supply to health care programs and more.  At the Presidential Gala, Ambassador Andrew Young also mentioned that Coca Cola is one of the biggest employers in the Continent of Africa. So Big Up to Coca Cola Africa.

Talking about Coca Cola, pictured above with Miss Africa USA is Dr. Vuvu Manseka also from the Coca Cola Head Quarters. He was introduced at the Banquet by Ms Engrid Saunders Jones as the Chair of the Coca Cola Africa Diaspora Team.  Each year Vuvu organizes the Coca Cola Africa Day at the Coke headquarters in Atlanta, a great networking luncheon event that brings together top management of Coca Cola, African Employees at Coca Cola and leaders in the African Community in Atlanta.  Coca Cola certainly had a strong representation at the Leon H Sullivan ‘Africa Policy Forum.

T. J Holmes CNN Anchor and Miss Africa USA chat at the Leon H Sullivan Foundation’s Presidential Gala.

Actor and Celebrity Host, Isaiah Washington was also in very involved in the 2010 Africa Policy Forum. He is not only a Board member of the Leon H Sullivan Foundation, he is also actively promoting the right to Dual Citizenship for Africa diaspora. Isaiah Washington Made history by being the first African American to have a dual citizenship after DNA testing traced his roots to the beautiful West African Country of Sierra Leone. He is a citizen of Sierra Leone and is doing some amazing humanitarian work, uplifting communities in Sierra Leone.  His presence at the Forum was certainly very inspiring as he shared his story and experience with the guests. The Award winning Actor who starred in ABC’s Greys Anatomy is seen above with Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah at the Presidential Gala. Queen Fifi was also able to share her platform project with him as well.

Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah was very happy to meet the staff of Leon H Sullivan Foundation. Pictured above: Ms Angela Chester-Johnson, the Vice President of Strategic Outreach. Ms Angela and her team worked very hard to put together a such a great event.

Also present at the Leon H Sullivan Foundation 2010 Presidential Gala were representatives from the African-American LifeStyle Magazine, a major sponsor of the Miss Africa USA Pageant. The Magazine also covered the event for publication.

It was also great catching up with Ms Lauren Thompson, Assistant to the President of the Leon H Sullivan Foundation pictured above. L-R  Miss Africa USA Pageant Manager Miss Linda Arrey, Ms Lauren Thompson, Mr. Ben Kalala from DRC (Presidential Candidate for DRC upcoming Presidential Elections) and Lady Kate Njeuma, CEO and Founder of Miss Africa USA Scholarship Pageant.

Miss Africa USA Finalists: Miss Kenya , Angela Wambui and Miss Gabon, Coretha Antchouey,  who had ran for the pageant this year were also in attendance at the Presidential Gala. A nice little Miss Africa re-union indeed.

Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah enjoyed networking with representatives of various non-profit organizations present. Pictured above with Ms Kadiatou Sidibe, the CEO and Founder of A Child For All Incorporated and organization focused on raising an educating orphans in Mali.

Three happy and smiling faces saying CONGRATULATIONS to the Leon H Sullivan Foundation for such a great event: from Left to Right:  Queen Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah the reigning Miss Africa USA,  My Cameroonian brother Mr. Sam Nyambi from the Coca Cola Headquarters in Atlanta and Lady Kate Njeuma, CEO Miss Africa USA Pageant.

The Presidential Gala night was another successful event in a series of events that translated into the “Africa Policy Forum”  ( A Vision For the 21st Century) drawing thousands of people to network, share, inspire and connect with the motherland.

It was a very beautiful day in New York city, Sept 20th 2010 when the first ever Women Inspire and Enterprise Symposium kicked of in the early hours of the morning.  Miss Fifi Soumah, the reigning Miss Africa USA 2010,   a special guest invited by White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood was in attendance among many successful and  aspiring women of all ages.  The WIE conference, was hosted by the White Ribbon Alliance For Safe Motherhood of which former First Lady of Britain Sarah Brown serves as the Global chair and Urban Zen Foundation.

The conference was moderated by world renowned Fashion Designer Donna Karan, First Lady Sarah Brown and Media Personality  Ariana Huffington.

The WIE Symposium (Women: Inspiration & Enterprise) that took place in New York City was  timed to coincide with the Clinton Global Initiative and the UN General Assembly this year.   The event included high profile speakers and guests drawn from the worlds of politics, philanthropy, media, fashion and the arts – as well as members of the next generation of leaders.  Speakers participated on different Panel discussions ranging from business, health, beauty, humanitarian work and even spirituality. It was very empowering.  Some of the Speakers included:

Acclaimed Actress Ashley Judd, Maria Eitel, Founding President of Nike Foundation, Ambassador Melanie Verveer, Baroness Amos, Aerin Lauder, Senior Vice President of Estee Lauder, Sheila C Johnson, Founding Partner of BET and many other very successful and dynamic women. Melinda Gates, Co-Chair of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, delivered the Key note address for the conference.

The WIE Symposium was held to coincide with a United Nations review summit on the Millennium Development Goals also held in New York. The Symposium provided an incredible opportunity to introduce powerful women to the work of the White Ribbon Alliance and the challenges of maternal health. The conference was certainly very inspiring as we listened to the speakers talking about the challenges in their lives as successful women, great motivational speeches and concerns for maternal health world wide.

Key note Speaker, humanitarian Melinda Gates, Co-Chair of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation shares her experiences as she traveled the world to witness first hand, the impact of poverty and the devastating effects it has had on women and children and also see the work that their foundation is doing on the ground to make a difference in the world of poverty.  It was really an honor to sit and listen to such a woman of great achievements and more so a humanitarian who works tirelessly to give millions of deprived families a chance to live and a chance to survive.

Sarah Brown, former First Lady of Britain who is also the Chair of The White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood addresses the attendees at the Women Inspiration and Enterprise conference where over 500 professional and business women gathered for a day of empowerment and motivation.  The White Ribbon Alliance is working very hard around the world to raise awareness on the need to ensure safe pregnancy and childbirth.  WRA shared some harrowing stories that some mothers have gone through and some were not lucky to make it because of lack of provisions for safe child birth.  This issue is also part of the United Nations Millenium Goals.

Speakers included:

Miss Africa USA 2010  Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah and Lady Kate Njeuma, CEO of Miss Africa USA Scholarship Pageant at the Women Inspiration and Enterprise Conference in New York City.

Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah spends a moment with Nthabiseng Tshabalala, a 12 yrs old South African girl who also one of the panelists of the conference.  She is HIV positive and lost her mother to the disease when she was only 7.  She is a beacon of hope for the 69 million children of the world who may never see a class room if education of the child is not prioritized. She addressed addressed President Zuma and other Heads of States during the World Cup Education Summit and was in New York for the United Nations Summit, calling for education for all children. She stunned the audience when she announced her ambition is to become a pilot in future…..well she got a standing ovation. To me she was the star of this conference, the hope of a new generation.

Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah had the opportunity to sign the Art Board of White Ribbon Alliance, among other  dynamic women attending the conference.

The day was packed with speakers from various industries and non-profits each one with something special to share about being a woman and dealing with womanhood. The message was simple, women have to support one another and together we can all elevate the status of women across the world.  After all the speaking engagements, the night ended with a breath taking Fashion show organized by the world famous fashion designer Donna Karan as pictured above.

Designer Donna Karan, Queen of Jordan Raina Abdullah, Sarah Brown and Ariana Huffington at the Women Inspiration and Enterprise conference in New York City.

Fashion Designer Donna Karan and Miss Africa USA at the Women Inspiration and Enterprise Post conference Fashion show in New York City.  The Fashion Show was held at the roof of the conference building. It was a beautiful night indeed.

Sarah Brown, Global Chair of the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood and Queen Fifi Soumah at the Women Inspiration and Enterprise Symposium in New York City during the Charity Fashion Show hosted by Donna Karan to wrap up the days activities.

Before the Fashion show kicked off, it was time to mix and mingle with other very dynamic and powerful women. Queen Fifi Soumah enjoyed sharing her platform and project for women with other guests. Pictured above, Miss Africa USA Fifi Soumah chats with TV personalities from ABC news.  Queen Fifi shared her campaign to against Female Genital mutilation and her platform to educate young girls in Guinea.

Miss Africa USA Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah shares a moment with British Television Personality Ms June Sarpong, one of the hosts of the Women Inspiration and Enterprise Conference.

Miss Africa USA Fatoumata (Fifi) Soumah was also very happy to meet Dr. Veronica of Dr. Veronica talk show.  She is a talk show host in New York city. Dr. Veronica also shared her thoughts about the challenges facing African American women and African women and ways we could all work together to help one another out.  We sure had some very interesting conversations with Dr. Veronica.

Queen Fifi at the pre-conference cocktail Party (Getty Images)

The future of Africa is carried in the bellies of its mothers.

Vice President of Montgomery County Council Valerie Ervin served as the Chair of Miss Africa USA Pageant. Pictured above delivering her keynote speech, she hailed the pageant for choosing Montgomery County as the host county and was very supportive of the Mission of the Miss Africa USA Pageant, empowering young women as goodwill ambassadors for Africa and America. As a woman with several accolades behind her name, she serves as an inspiration to young women and the pageant was very honored by her presence and for gracing the event as the Chair person.  She is the first black woman to serve as Vice President of Montgomery County Council and a very good role model for our youth.

State Representative Mike Glanton, a long time Patron and sponsor of the Miss Africa USA Pageant pictured above delivering his message as a Guess Speaker at the Banquet. He remains full of admiration for the pageant organization as a whole, recognizing how far the pageant has come and what journey there lies ahead.  He encouraged the young women to keep their aspirations high and hailed them for their spirit to serve humanity, he also pledged his continuing support for the pageant.  State Representative Mike Glanton flew in with his dear wife Pearla Glanton from Clayton County Georgia to be at the pageant.

The Banquet night provided a great opportunity to recognize some of the personalities who have been of great support to the pageant, those who have also worked hard to elevate the pageant as well. Pictured above is Mr. Joseph Eyong, Personal Aide to the Vice President of Montgomery County Council, receiving the Leadership Award on behalf of his Boss Valerie Ervin, who also served as the Chair Person for the Pageant.

Miss Linda Arrey and Lady Kate Njeuma Presented the Patron’s Award to Honorable Mike Glanton and His dear wife Pearla Glanton recognizing their patronage and sponsorship. Mrs Glanton spent several days to create some beautiful gift baskets for each finalist in the pageant this year.  The pageant organization remains very grateful for the support of the Glanton family.

A very special Award for a very special Lady, Dr. Aretha Makia received the Miss Africa USA Pageant: Woman of Valor Award. She not only served as the honorary host of the pageant this year, she is also a past beauty Queen who has proven that beauty is deeper than the skin, bigger than the eyes can see.

She was crowned Miss Cameroon some years back, she went on to achieve excellence in education and became a Medical Doctor and now practices as a Women’s Health Specialist in Maryland. She owns her own Clinic, spends time on charity work and she still looks very beautiful. Dr. Makia is an inspiration not only to beauty Queens but to all women as as well. We are very proud of her.

Also present to grace the occasion that evening was Miss Africa USA 2006 – 2007 Miss Teizue Gayflor from Liberia. Miss Teizue completed her reign in 2007 and did so much for her community in Liberia. She gained sponsorship to visit Liberia where she was able to support school children with school supplies, talked to students about the importance of education and had an opportunity to preach the message of peace and reconciliation in Liberia.  Miss Teizue was honored as a goodwill Ambassador for her service to humanity during her reign as Miss Africa USA.

The Program booklet cover designed by Miss Icy Promotions.

Miss Fifi Soumah and Miss Tatiana Fetgo enjoy a moment on the Red Carpet with Special guest, His Excellency The Ambassador of Sierra Leone.

VIP guests attending the Miss Africa USA Scholarship Pageant Banquet event at the UMUC Marriott conference Center in Maryland. The first VIP banquet in the history of the pageant drew Politicians, members of the Diplomatic core, African Royalties, friends and family who dined together and shared the stories of the delegates and their humanitarian platforms for Africa and the United States.

Pictured above are Miss Africa USA Patrons Mrs Glanton, Honorable Mike Glanton, State Representative from Clayton County Ga, Pageant Founder and CEO Lady Kate Njeuma and the Pageant Manager Miss Linda Arrey, on the Red Carpet.

Miss Gabon Coretha Antchouey supported by officials from the Embassy of Gabon in Washington DC, standing by their Queen at the Miss Africa USA Banquet 2010.  Miss Gabon’s Platform for the pageant involves raising awareness on Cervical Cancer in Gabon, promoting early detection and prevention strategies for women.

Cameroonian VIPs on the Red Carpet at the Miss Africa USA Banquet, July 24th, hosted at the beautiful University of Maryland Marriott Conference Center in Maryland. Pictured above: Pageant Host Dr. Aretha Makia and husband Dr. Makia, friends Dr. Elangwe, VIP guests:  Mr. Solomon Egbe and friends of Dr. Makia, the Pageant MC Dr. Emma Osong among other VIP guests.

African Designers played a very important role at the pageant this year, highlighting African couture on the runway. On the Red Carpet are Miss Linda Arrey pageant manager, Fashion Designers: Vera Ochia from Kenya, Frank Osodi from Lagos Nigeria, Lady Kate Njeuma the Founder and CEO of Miss Africa USA, Fashion Designer Stella Atal from Uganda, Akouavi Slater from Togo and Miss Africa USA Pageant Production Manager Kyle Haggerty .

On the Red Carpet: Mrs Astrid and Mr. Ivo Tasong, proud sponsors of the 2010 Miss Africa USA Scholarship Pageant, here attending VIP banquet at the beautiful UMUC Marriott conference center in Maryland.

Miss Linda Arrey the Pageant Manager and Miss Nigeria finalist Miss Roseline Amusu enjoy a moment on the Red Carpet just before the banquet kicked off.

Few Snapshots on the Miss Africa USA Red Carpet event, More photos available on the website and facebook.  Thank you.

The Management of Miss Africa USA Scholarship Pageant is happy to announce plans for its First VIP Banquet and Awards Ceremony.  The Miss Africa USA pageant empowers young and dynamic African women in the United States of America as leaders and Goodwill Ambassadors for Africa and America.  Each Delegate takes on an achievable micro project to benefit a community in need in Africa or in America.

In this light therefore the pageant management deems it fit to acknowledge the work of other great humanitarians in the community at large as an inspiration for all finalists of the pageant.  In particular, the pageant will highlight the humanitarian achievements of past Beauty Queens as well as the achievements of those humanitarians who have worked to improve the lives of the needy in Africa.   The pageant is currently taking nominations for The Miss Africa USA Woman of Valor Awards and Humanitarian Awards.  Please email recommendations to info@missafricaunitedstates.com

The VIP Banquet is Exclusively a Red Carpet Event

The VIP Banquet will serve as the First formal introduction of all Miss Africa USA 2010 Delegates who will address the guests and present their projects before a Panel of Distinct Judges, African Ambassadors in Washington DC, Sponsors, the media  and Special Guests.

The University of Maryland Marriott Conference Center will host the 2010 VIP Banquet as follows:

Date:   Friday  July 23  2010

Time:  7pm  -  11pm

Tickets: $100 donation

Dress Code:  Formal or African Traditional

Our Very own Red Carpet PRO  Miss Jesica Emeh will be on the Red Carpet and Ready to Welcome you.

This event is expected to sell out so do well to purchase your tickets on time by visiting the Events page

www.missafricaunitedstates.com