Last night, Melbourne played host to a dazzling array of African-Australian talent at the inaugural Amari Gala, an event dedicated to celebrating Black excellence and community achievement.
Held at the prestigious Pullman on The Park Hotel, the sold-out affair saw luminaries from various fields gather to honour trailblazers and changemakers.
Among the notable attendees were internationally acclaimed artist Sampa The Great and former AFLW star Akec Makur Chuot, who graced the red carpet with their presence, setting the tone for an evening of recognition and celebration.
The event, themed “Still We Rise!”, underscored the resilience and perseverance of the African-Australian community in the face of challenges.
It served as a platform to honour people across diverse sectors, from business and community advocacy to the creative arts.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of awards recognising outstanding contributions. Melbourne business owner Habiba Ahmed was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year for her impactful work in maternal healthcare.
Ahmed expressed gratitude for the support and recognition, emphasising her commitment to collective well-being.
“I am truly honoured and moved by the community’s support and recognition of my work’s impact,” Ahmed wrote on Instagram after the event.
“Guided by the grace of Allah, this mission transcends me – I promise to continue to safeguard, protect, honour, advocate, and dismantle systems for our collective well-being.”
The accolades didn’t stop there. The Bittersweet Podcast was crowned Content Creator of the Year (sponsored by Back Cover News), while Business of the Year went to Vola Foods, further highlighting the diversity and innovation within the African-Australian community.
Political figures also graced the event, with Greens MP Gabrielle de Vietri and shadow police minister Brad Battin among the 450-strong crowd, underscoring the significance of the gala as a platform for dialogue and engagement.
Fashion took centre stage as well, with influencer Suzan Mutesi dazzling in a daring African-inspired gown, setting the tone for an evening of sartorial excellence.
The Amari Gala, organised by the African Youth Alliance in collaboration with Incubate Foundation and RIDDIM, aims to spotlight the voices and individuals driving positive change within the community.
From young creatives to seasoned professionals, the gala celebrates achievements across various fields, including content creation, arts, athletics, and entrepreneurship.
With electrifying performances and heartfelt speeches, the inaugural Amari Gala not only celebrated excellence but also served as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of the African-Australian community.
As the night came to a close, attendees left inspired and empowered, ready to continue their journey of making a difference and shaping a brighter future for all.
