The Day of the Gala: From the Communications Manager’s Perspective

I woke up instantly feeling the impending excitement! It was a work-from-home day, so I spent most of the day managing my excitement and nerves on my own. But knowing that my colleagues and coworkers felt the same way made it even more thrilling.

There was an added layer of nerves for me because I was presenting a poem I had written about our 10-year anniversary, inspired by the lessons and experiences I’ve gained from the organization. I was excited to share my storytelling and writing skills but anxious, too,  I hoped people would love my poem, though a small part of me worried they wouldn’t. Either way, I was determined to give it my all. I trusted my writing and knew it would be amazing.

The hours flew by. In my attempt to calm my nerves, I almost numbed myself, it was scary to feel more anxious than excited. Finally, it was time to get ready. I chose a jumpsuit that always earns me compliments, and with my hair done and my outfit looking elegant, I felt great.

I arrived at the Guthrie, ready to dive in, there was work to be done! Between complementing everyone and helping set up, the excitement started to build. Months of planning and delegating had led to this moment. Shoutout to the social media team, we captured so many amazing shots!

When our headliner, Warsan Shire, arrived, we couldn’t contain our excitement. She carried herself with such confidence and grace, truly inspiring. Guests filled every seat in the hall, and I couldn’t sit still the whole night, moving around to connect with everyone and catch up with coworkers. The MC was flawless, keeping everything flowing smoothly.

All too quickly, it was time for my poem. Instantly, my mouth went dry, but I trusted my words. Inspired by the greatness of our organization, I knew I would give it the justice it deserves. The microphone squeaked, but with a calm focus, I read my poem:

The seed

You are a young African immigrant woman in a new country.

You share this country with those who look just like you. Those who come from the same homeland, Your community.

Amongst your community, you understand that leadership is needed. And you know yourself to be more than capable. So, you run for office.

You run on strong values, a strong platform, a strong agenda!

However, you lose….

You turn to your community and ask them: Why?

And while you are complimented on your capabilities and determination! …you understand that you lose due to one specific factor…

You are a young African immigrant…. woman.

In a significant moment, you make a promise to yourself: You will do whatever it takes to change this mindset.

THE SEED IS PLANTED.

Time would pass.

Your life will take you on quite the journey.

You meet amazing people who share your interest in policy, civic engagement and leadership.

Men and women alike…

but you notice a pattern…

the women who stand amongst these men shrink themselves.

You know them to be more that capable but they cling to the shadows.

Your promise rings out to you.

Change this mindset.

THE SEED MUST TAKE ROOT.

You start with a conversation.

The conversation grows from between your sisters and allies to your community at large.

You listen, understand, educate and encourage.

The community responds. The women respond.

And before your very eyes,

WOW

Women organizing women, to lead, to take charge, wanting change for themselves.

You’ve shared your vision.

And it comes to life.

THE SEED HAS BEGUN TO GROW

10 years have passed…

The foundation has formed

The organization comes to life.

Programs empower the community.

Alumni take up the mantle and give back to community.

And every day you sit in a room surrounded by young African diaspora women, who continue to help your vision come to life…

the vision we all now share…

Our roots deep in African women empowerment, The Legacy

And today we celebrate the how far we’ve risen in that power

THE SEED IS NOW A MIGHTY TREE, IT STANDS TALL, STRONG, AND FULL OF PROMISE.

Beyond this night of celebration, the work continues. From this mighty tree, more seeds will follow, more visions to come. Our legacy, our power will live on.

The crowd granted me a gracious applause. While I noticed my own mistakes for a brief moment, many people complimented my speech. The night continued with amazing drummers, a fantastic dance performance, and powerful words from the incredible Warsan Shire herself. We enjoyed delicious food and captured memories in photos all night long. Months of work had culminated in one unforgettable evening.

From the Ayada Leads team, we want to say thank you to everyone who joined us for our 10 year anniversary. It truly was a night to remember.

Thank you.