This Friday, 22nd November 2024, the Royal African Society (RAS) will host its prestigious Benefit Gala at the illustrious Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in central London. Promising a convergence of culture, artistry, and thought leadership, the event is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of African excellence, bringing together luminaries from across the globe.
Guests will be treated to a meticulously curated evening, beginning with a cocktail reception co-hosted by Rolling Stone Africa, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Africa, Afreximbank, and Africa No Filter. The soirée continues with a Michelin-starred three-course dinner, designed by the culinary virtuosos behind London’s celebrated restaurants Ikoyi and Chishuru.
Adding gravitas to the evening, Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, will deliver the keynote address, accompanied by an awards ceremony and a live auction conducted by ARTSY. The silent auction, already underway, will remain open for bids until 23rd November 2024.
The Gala boasts an eclectic array of performances, headlined by Nigerian-born multidisciplinary artist Laolu Senbanjo. Renowned for his work in visual arts, music, and human rights activism, Laolu’s collaborations span luminaries such as Beyoncé, Serena Williams, and Alicia Keys. His work has featured in The New York Times, Vogue, and Beyoncé’s Grammy-winning visual album Lemonade.
Joining him are the dynamic dancers of Ballet Soul, whose performances interweave traditional African movement with classical ballet to explore the depths of human physicality and emotion. The evening will also feature the London School of Samba, offering a vibrant spectacle of Afro-Brazilian rhythms and dance, and an evocative poetry recital by Jenny Mitchell, one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary poets.
The event will attract a distinguished audience, including ambassadors, high commissioners, business leaders, and cultural icons. It aims to highlight the transformative power of African narratives in shaping perceptions of the continent and fostering meaningful engagement between Africa and the global community.
Since its founding, the Royal African Society has championed cultural understanding and economic collaboration between Africa and the UK. The Society’s flagship events, such as the Benefit Gala, underscore its commitment to spotlighting Africa’s diverse heritage and its immense creative and economic potential.
For tickets and further details, visit gala.royalafricansociety.org.
For press inquiries, please contact Michael Burgess at mb148@soas.ac.uk.
The Royal African Society’s Benefit Gala stands as a testament to the boundless innovation and talent emanating from Africa, making it a must-attend event for anyone invested in the continent’s flourishing future.
