EVENT POSTPONED
Step into an unforgettable evening where hope, culture, and impact collide.
venue SPOTLIGHT
Vital Voices Global Partnership
We’re elated to host our annual gala at Vital Voices HQ in Washington, D.C. - a space that embodies the spirit of our mission. It’s the perfect setting, as Vital Voices Global Partnership invests in women who are tackling the world’s greatest challenges and creating lasting change. Together, we celebrate women leading the way to a better tomorrow.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Neema Namadamu - A Global Force for Change
This is a rare opportunity to engage with Neema Namadamu, an internationally recognized activist, visionary leader, and founder of Hero Women Rising. Neema’s work on the frontlines of women’s empowerment, education, and advocacy in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has made waves on the global stage. Her mission? To create a future where Congolese women and girls lead with strength, dignity, and opportunity. With escalating conflict threatening the region, her voice and work of Hero Women Rising are more crucial than ever.
WHAT TO EXPECT
5:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Private VIP Reception for Gala Sponsors
Location TBA
6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Reception with Live Music by Ezra Brown
1st Floor | Foyer
6:30 pm - 7:15 pm
Opening Remarks & Panel Discussion
1st Floor | InMaat Forum for Leadership
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Dinner with Live Music by Ezra Brown
Raffle & Silent Auction Announcements
3rd Floor | Sara Blakely Center for Entrepreneurship
Parking is available offsite within a 2-minute walk of Vital Voices.
live music
Ezra Brown
International Jazz Saxophonist & Founder of Soule Coffee
Ezra Brown is an internationally recognized jazz saxophonist whose career has taken him across the world - from the iconic stages of New York and Paris to performances in Tokyo, London, and Johannesburg. Renowned for his soulful tone and dynamic storytelling through music, Ezra has collaborated with leading artists and captivated audiences across continents.
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Beyond his musical achievements, Ezra is the founder of Soule Coffee, a cultural hub that merges community, creativity, and connection. Through both music and entrepreneurship, he continues to shape spaces that inspire, uplift, and bring people together.
the panel
Engage in a powerful panel discussion with Founder Neema Namadamu, renowned journalists, and leading academics on how women and girls are shaping peace in Eastern DRC.
Stay tuned for complete list of panelists.
the cuisine
Chez Kisa - Authentic Congolese Cuisine
Indulge in a refined culinary experience as Chez Kisa – Authentic Congolese Cuisine presents a seated dinner crafted exclusively for this black-tie evening. With dishes rooted in rich Congolese tradition and infused with bold, authentic flavors, this elegant dining experience sets the stage for an unforgettable night of culture, music, and impact.
become a sponsor
Elevate your impact and join us as a Gala Sponsor. By stepping into this role, you’re not just supporting an event - you’re helping drive our mission forward and fueling programs that empower and uplift women and girls in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
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With four sponsorship levels to choose from, there’s a place for every partner who wants to stand with us and make a lasting difference.
Voice of Change
$2,000
Messenger of Hope
$5,000
Ambassador for Tomorrow
$10,000
Guardian of Legacy
$25,000
raffle spotlight
​Aloe Vera, 2024 | Acrylic on canvas | 100 x 80 cm​
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​Win a one-of-a-kind Congolese painting by Kinshasa artist Emmanuel Akilimali, donated by Gallery Article 15. A stunning piece that blends tradition, nature, and culture - yours to take home!
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About the Artist – Emmanuel Akilimali
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Kinshasa-based artist and 2022 graduate of the Académie des Beaux-Arts, Emmanuel Akilimali blends traditional and contemporary art. Inspired by his mother, a traditional healer, he explores the relationship between humanity and nature through monochromatic figures, leaf imprints, and organic textures. His work reflects identity, heritage, and the interconnectedness of life.
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Congolese, b. 1999 Lives and works in Kinshasa, DRC Emerging artist
silent auction
Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
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Hero Women Rising, in partnership with BetterWorld, is offering exclusive domestic and international vacation packages through our silent auction. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach escape, a vibrant city adventure, or a cultural journey abroad, this is your chance to make it happen.
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Best of all, every bid fuels our mission to empower women and girls in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Don’t miss your opportunity to win that unforgettable getaway while making a lasting impact.
Stay tuned - full package details coming soon!
honoring our co-chairs
We are deeply grateful to our Gala Co-Chairs, Aisha DeBerry and Pat Alsup, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in bringing She Holds Tomorrow to life. Their commitment and support ensure that Hero Women Rising can host a gala that not only inspires, but also creates lasting impact for women and girls in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
for more information
For inquiries, contact Beatrice Woody, Global Director of Communications & Development:
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Phone: 404.919.7434
Email: Beatrice@HeroWomenRising.org​