The Elizabeth Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works to educate women in Africa, held its first benefit concert on Saturday evening at the Nigerian Embassy. More than 200 guests showed up to support the foundation and enjoy the evening’s festivities, which included a performance by the McLean Symphony Orchestra, fronted by a number of accomplished African singers. The featured vocalist was the Elizabeth Foundation’s own president, soprano Abiodun Koya.The performances took place in the embassy’s main hall, a large room with marble floors, glass and steel walls, and four-story-tall wooden columns. A silent auction was also a part of the evening, featuring the paintings and sculptures of celebrated Nigerian artist and Atlanta resident Chidi Okoye. Copies of Kitu Kizuri magazine, a publication for and by African women living in North America, were on sale at the door.
Elizabeth Foundation event coordinator Janice Olopada spent six months planning the benefit, and, according to Koya, the concert is going to become an annual tradition. Discussions are underway for hip-hop artist Wyclef Jean to headline next summer.
Elizabeth Foundation event coordinator Janice Olopada spent six months planning the benefit, and, according to Koya, the concert is going to become an annual tradition. Discussions are underway for hip-hop artist Wyclef Jean to headline next summer.
Foundation president and soprano Abiodun Koya.
Photo: Courtesy of the Elizabeth Foundation
The 35-piece McLean Symphony Orchestra performed as part of the benefit concert.
Photo: Courtesy of the Elizabeth Foundation
The multicultural choir MetroSingers hail from the Metropolitan Seventh Day Adventist Church in Hyattsville, Maryland.
Photo: Courtesy of the Elizabeth Foundation
Foundation president and soprano Abiodun Koya performed at the benefit, which raised $2,000.
Photo: Courtesy of the Elizabeth Foundation
More than 200 attendees sat atop red-cushioned gold chairs from USA Party Rentals.
Photo: Courtesy of the Elizabeth Foundation
