A Night of Glitz and Purpose: The Gatsby Showcase Foundation Honors Global and Local Trailblazers

Global n Impact

If you were looking for the most exclusive, high-impact gathering in D.C. recently, you needed to be at the Organization of American States (OAS) building for the 5th Annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Awards Ceremony. This was more than just a gala; it was a powerful convergence of diplomacy, celebrity, philanthropy, and grassroots excellence, all dedicated to a noble cause.

The moment guests arrived; they were swept into an atmosphere of elegance. The evening kicked off with a red carpet that sparkled with ambassadors, D.C.’s elite, and renowned entertainers. The pre-event reception was a vibe, featuring an open bar, delectable passed hors d’oeuvres, and the delightful, melodic sounds of steel pan music transporting everyone to a tropical state of mind.

The Foundation’s Heartfelt Mission

The true star of the evening, however, was the Gatsby Showcase Foundation’s mission: empowering historically marginalized groups to achieve economic independence. “The mission was born not as a business idea, but as a humanitarian mission”, said Laura AyukTakem Fote, Co-Founder of The Gatsby Showcase Foundation. “A commitment to dignity that begins with essentials.”

They do this through providing essential tools such as education, business development resources, access to quality healthcare, and a strong, supportive global network. The awards ceremony was a celebration of the individuals who embody this spirit of upliftment.

A Star-Studded Stage

Taking the helm as Mistress of Ceremony was none other than the iconic Vivica A. Fox, who brought her signature energy and commanding presence to the stage. With a knowing smile, she set the tone for the night.

“Look at this room!” Vivica A. Fox exclaimed, drawing applause. “Tonight is about giving flowers to those who don’t just talk the talk, but walk the walk. These honorees are proving every single day that economic independence is not a dream—it’s an achievable goal when we lift each other up. That’s what the Gatsby Foundation is all about: real action.”

The program was punctuated by a stunning performance from R&B crooner Kenny Lattimore, whose smooth vocals added a touch of timeless romance and operatic sophistication to the powerful proceedings.

Honoring the Difference Makers

The roster of honorees was nothing short of remarkable, blending influential D.C. figures with international advocates and cultural icons:

D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (Invited)
Reverend Al Sharpton, Civil and Human Rights Icon; Founder, National Action Network (NAN) (Invited)
Armstrong Williams, Media Mogul and Award-Winning Journalist
Johnny Gill, Award-Winning Singer/Songwriter/Producer
LaToya Foster, Director, DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME); and, DC Film Commissioner
Paul J. Cohn, Entrepreneur and Iconic DC Restauranteur
Raymone K. Bain, “Keeper of the Famed,” Media Strategist and Public Relations Executive
H.E. Denis G. Antoine, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Representing Grenada
Christine Francis, Philanthropist, and wife of the Grenadian Ambassador
Barrett LaRoda, International Entrepreneur and Entertainment Executive

The event made it crystal clear: the work of empowering communities is a global endeavor that requires commitment from every sector, from city hall to the UN, and from the local business owner to the international entrepreneur. In a final moment of reflection, Vivica A. Fox summed up the powerful spirit in the room: “What you’re doing, giving back to the communities, is just absolutely incredible”, said Vivica A. Fox, Acclaimed Actress and Producer. “Every great movement has a heartbeat, a leader whose vision, discipline, and purpose kept it (the foundation) alive and moving forward.”

The 5th annual awards ceremony was a resounding success, solidifying the Gatsby Showcase Foundation’s reputation as a pivotal force for change and leaving attendees feeling energized and connected, a true testament to the power of purposeful celebration.

WeModelUSA Fashion Show Ignites MGM National Harbor With Purpose, Power, and High Fashion

WeModelUSA Fashion Show Ignites MGM National Harbor With

Purpose, Power, and High Fashion

The MGM National Harbor was buzzing with energy as WeModelUSA turned a glamorous fashion night into a powerful call to action. The evening wasn’t just a fashion show; it was a full-fledged movement. WeModelUSA, a DMV-based model search company owned by Onyx Global Solutions, has never operated like a typical modeling brand.

Known for competing in high-profile, international fashion events, WeModelUSA offers the complete package: red carpet treatment, bright lights, cameras flashing, designers showcasing bold collections, and models commanding the runway. But beyond the spectacle, the night was rooted in something more meaningful fashion with a mission.

Fashion as a Platform for Social Change

This year’s Fashion and Awards Show shone a bright spotlight on empowerment and advocacy. While the runway dazzled with striking looks, the core message was clear: fashion can be used as a force for good. WeModelUSA continues to use its platform to raise awareness about human trafficking, a global crisis that disproportionately affects women and children. Through storytelling, visuals, and the presence of mission-aligned advocates, the event reminded guests that beauty is not just what we see; it’s what we stand for.

Founder Patricia Watts lives this philosophy every day. Through her leadership and work with Seeds of Faith, she is helping transform the lives of women in Ghana, many of whom labor in cassava, cocoa, and citrus fields. The organization focuses on economic empowerment, faith, and sustainable opportunity, offering women the tools and support they need to rewrite their futures. That same spirit of transformation echoed throughout the room.

Honoring Leaders Who Move the Community Forward

Central to the evening was the awards ceremony, recognizing honorees for their business acumen, leadership, and outstanding contributions to the community.

These were not just names on a program; they are entrepreneurs, advocates, and visionaries who are building businesses, creating jobs, mentoring, and opening doors for the next generation. Some were recognized for their innovative business ventures, others for their philanthropy, community organizing, or consistent service behind the scenes.

As each honoree took the stage, the message was unmistakable: success is not only measured by profit, but by impact. Their stories reflect resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, perfectly aligned with WeModelUSA’s mission of using fashion and influence as tools for social change.

A Distinguished Lineup of Guests

The night’s prestige was elevated by the presence of influential leaders like His Excellency Kassoum Coulibaly, and special guests including:

Mayor Cashenna Cross, whose public service and advocacy continue to uplift communities.
Dr. George C. Fraser, a nationally respected voice on Black business, networking, and economic empowerment.
Kyle Arrington, NFL Super Bowl Champion, served as Master of Ceremonies, bringing both charisma and heart to the stage.

Their presence underscored the significance of the night: this was where fashion, business, community, and purpose intersected.

A Movement, Not Just a Moment

From the fireside chat and red carpet to the final walk, the WeModelUSA Fashion & Awards Show at MGM National Harbor was more than an event; it was a statement. The models became walking canvases, reflecting not only style but strength and possibility. Through fashion, recognition, and advocacy, WeModelUSA reminded everyone in the room that real impact happens when creativity meets conviction. The awards honored those already doing the work. The runway inspired others to join them.

And as the lights dimmed and the cameras stopped flashing, one thing for sure, two things for certain: this wasn’t the end of something, it was the continuation of a movement that is just getting started. As each honoree took the stage, the message was unmistakable: success is not only measured by profit, but by impact. Their stories reflect resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, perfectly aligned with WeModelUSA’s mission of using fashion and influence as tools for social change.

Pathways to Rural Prosperity: Unlocking Green Jobs for Women and Youth through Renewable Energy Access

Pathways to Rural Prosperity: Unlocking Green Jobs for Women and Youth through Renewable Energy Access

by Staff

When it comes to women, being grounded with a forward-looking vision, “Pathways to Rural Prosperity: Unlocking Green Jobs for Women and Youth through Renewable Energy Access.” Hosted under the Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF), it captured the energy and optimism of a movement determined to make inclusive growth more than just a talking point.

The CSPF has long been the beating heart of civil engagement at these global gatherings, and this year was no exception. With 33 CSO-led sessions and voices from across the globe, the forum created a rare space where policy meets purpose. From discussions on gender and agribusiness to Mission 300 and health equity, it was a showcase of how collaboration can turn policy frameworks into tangible progress.

This particular session highlighted how renewable energy access can be a catalyst for both rural development and green job creation, especially for women and youth who are often left behind in traditional economies. The conversation went beyond theory, focusing on real solutions: training women to install solar panels, financing rural cooperatives, and building sustainable livelihoods through energy innovation.

World Bank Group leaders and technical experts joined CSO partners in a dynamic dialogue that underscored one truth, the future of prosperity is green, inclusive, and powered by people who refuse to be left in the dark.

From Crisis to Confidence: Ghana’s Journey to Macroeconomic Stabilization

by Staff

This week Ghana took center stage as a story of resilience, reform, and renewal. The conversation around Ghana’s economic recovery was refreshingly optimistic, a reminder that progress, though hard-won, is indeed possible with discipline and vision.

Ghana’s macroeconomic stabilization is showing real results. Inflation is easing, growth is rebounding, and international reserves are strengthening. The Bank of Ghana’s tight monetary policy and sterilization of excess liquidity have been key drivers of this turnaround. While sterilization has put some strain on the Bank’s balance sheet, the authorities are determined to rebuild it over time through greater independence and new legislative safeguards limiting monetary financing.

In foreign exchange and reserve management, Ghana’s managed floating exchange rate system has helped smooth market volatility. The central bank’s interventions, mainly to offset large one-time payments, have been strategic rather than reactionary. Today, the country’s reserves cover roughly 4.5 months of imports, a sign of growing financial resilience. The Domestic Gold Purchase Program continues to shine, literally, as it supports the buildup of gold-backed reserves.

Then there’s the digital frontier, crypto assets. The Bank of Ghana has noticed a noticeable shift in remittance flows, with some Ghanaians opting for crypto and stablecoins over traditional banking. Rather than resist, the central bank is moving to regulate, drafting a new bill to oversee crypto assets, supported by the IMF. A dedicated department now monitors this fast-changing space, proof that Ghana isn’t just stabilizing its economy, but modernizing it.

Under the Governor’s leadership, the Bank of Ghana is balancing old challenges with new realities, showing that resilience, transparency, and innovation can go hand in hand. Ghana’s steady comeback is not just about recovery; it’s about reimagining what a modern African economy can look like.

It. Goes. So. Fast: A Conversation with Mary Louise Kelly

by Staff

Kristalina Georgieva, Mary Louise Kelly NPR

At the 2025 World Bank–IMF Annual Meetings, the spotlight turned from global finance to the human stories that shape leadership and resilience. NPR’s All Things Considered host and acclaimed author Mary Louise Kelly joined Sabina Bhatia, Director of the Corporate Services and Facilities Department at the IMF, for a compelling conversation that bridged journalism, leadership, and the personal cost of ambition.

With IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva delivering the opening remarks, the session set a reflective tone on the importance of integrity and courage in leadership, both in the newsroom and in global institutions. Kelly, drawing from her memoir It. Goes. So. Fast., shared candid reflections on navigating motherhood, moral crossroads, and moments of no return while reporting from conflict zones.

Bhatia offered insight into the IMF’s evolving leadership culture, emphasizing empathy, accountability, and adaptability as central to modern governance. Together, their dialogue revealed a shared truth: whether in global economics or international journalism, leadership is as much about humanity as it is about strategy.

Women and Wealth Transfer: The Next Global Shift

by Silke Endress International

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A quiet revolution is underway in the world of finance, and women are leading it. At the recent World Bank and IMF Meetings, one theme stood out loud and clear: women are not just part of the economic story; they’re writing it, empowering us all with their financial prowess.

Across boardrooms, investment firms, and even within multilateral institutions, there’s a growing realization that wealth transfer and financial power are shifting into women’s hands, reshaping the financial landscape. Trillions of dollars are expected to change ownership over the next few decades, and a considerable share will go to women, whether through inheritance, entrepreneurship, or leadership in investment.

Both the IMF and World Bank have prioritized gender inclusion as a key policy goal, a vital step toward a more equal financial future. Their latest strategies no longer see gender as a “soft issue”; instead, it’s considered a fundamental economic driver. The IMF’s new framework describes gender equality as “macro-critical,” meaning that economies cannot fully reach their potential without it. Meanwhile, the World Bank’s 2024–2030 Gender Strategy emphasizes giving women more control over assets, finance, and leadership roles in economic development.

Over the next two decades, women are expected to inherit and control more than $30 trillion in global wealth. That’s right, women are becoming one of the most powerful financial forces on the planet.

“Women are expected to become the primary global wealth holders for the first time”, said Lia Lungu, Global Governance & Strategy Expert. “It’s making sure women are primed for success and inheriting resilient economies.”

This is a pivotal moment. Women are not just accumulating personal wealth; they are leveraging it to shape economies, influence global policy, and invest in a more inclusive future. Their financial power is not just significant, but transformative.

This shift is massive. It means more women will be making investment decisions, shaping markets, and influencing corporate behavior. And here’s the exciting part: research shows that women investors are more likely to prioritize sustainability, social impact, and community well-being.

In essence, women are on the brink of redefining wealth itself. It’s not just about accumulation but about using wealth as a tool for transformation. This unique perspective on wealth and investment could have profound implications for our society and economy.

Financial institutions are finally catching up. Many banks and wealth management firms are now developing services tailored to female investors, emphasizing long-term growth, intergenerational legacy planning, and values-based investing. The upcoming era of women-led wealth will change how capital flows and possibly redefine what capitalism looks like.

Women’s Financial Resilience: How Global Finance Is Finally Catching Up

by Staff

Let’s be honest, when women have financial power, everyone benefits. Families grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and economies flourish. Yet for far too long, women have been on the sidelines of finance. From being denied loans to lacking access to savings and insurance, the barriers have been as invisible as they are powerful.

Now, as climate change and global crises shake economies, the world is realizing something crucial: women’s financial inclusion isn’t just a “nice to have.” It’s a survival strategy for the planet.

That’s why global institutions like the United Nations (UN) focus on women’s financial resilience. They’ve seen the data: when women control more of the world’s capital, economies grow faster, businesses become more sustainable, and communities are better equipped to handle shocks.

Simply put, empowering women financially isn’t charity. It’s one of the smartest economic decisions any society can make.

Global Challenges in 2025: Why Peace Matters Now More Than Ever

by Carletha Cole

The declaration of 2025 as the Year of International Peace comes against the backdrop of unprecedented global challenges.

Armed Conflicts: Wars in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and other regions continue to cause immense human suffering. These conflicts also destabilize neighboring countries, fuel refugee crises, and divert resources away from development.
Humanitarian Emergencies: More than 110 million people worldwide are displaced, according to UNHCR, with many lacking access to food, shelter, or healthcare. Protracted crises in Syria, Afghanistan, and parts of Africa highlight the urgent need for peace.
Climate Change: Extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and resource scarcity are driving conflict in vulnerable regions. The link between environmental stress and insecurity is now undeniable.
Economic Inequality: The pandemic widened gaps between rich and poor, both within and among countries. Inequality fuels grievances, undermines trust in institutions, and creates fertile ground for extremism.
Geopolitical Rivalries: Growing competition between major powers risks fragmenting the international order. If left unchecked, such rivalries could paralyze multilateral cooperation at precisely the moment it is needed most.

Against this backdrop, the UNGA 80s’ focus on peace is not just symbolic; it is a strategic necessity. Without peace, the international community cannot achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, protect the planet, or safeguard human dignity.

UNGA 80 (2025): The Year of International Peace

by Carletha Cole

The 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) marks a historic milestone in the journey of multilateral diplomacy. In 2025, the General Assembly has chosen to declare this year as the “Year of International Peace”, signaling a renewed global commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and conflict prevention. The

decision reflects not only the urgency of addressing today’s crises but also the deep symbolism of reaching the 80th session, a testament to the resilience of the United Nations since its founding in 1945.

Unlike previous commemorations, this year carries profound political and moral weight. It comes at a time when wars continue to devastate communities, climate disasters displace millions, and inequalities drive instability across regions. Declaring 2025 as the Year of International Peace is not merely ceremonial, it is a call to action for governments, civil society, and international institutions to put peace at the center of their agendas.

The global community now faces a defining question: will UNGA 80 inspire genuine change, or will it remain another symbolic gesture? The answer depends on how seriously nations embrace this moment, and whether they can rise above narrow interests to build a shared future.

Global Interests Must Trump National Ones, Here’s Why Civil Society Matters

by Carletha Cole

At the opening of the 80th UN General Assembly, Secretary-General Guterres said what many diplomats hesitate to: national interest is strangling global cooperation. And in an age of pandemics, climate collapse, and mass displacement, national silos are recipes for failure.

Here’s the opportunity, and the responsibility, for philanthropists and civil society. Borders do not bind you. Your funding, your advocacy, and your storytelling can transcend where politics cannot. You can remind communities that solidarity isn’t charity, it’s survival.

When governments fixate on elections and egos, it’s your institutions that keep climate finance flowing to vulnerable farmers. It’s your campaigns that hold human rights violations in the headlines. It’s your youth networks that ensure multilateralism has a future constituency.

Looking beyond national interest is not abstract diplomacy. It’s building solar grids in conflict zones. It’s keeping refugee children in classrooms. It’s supporting digital governance that protects human dignity.

The UN set the challenge. The question is: will civil society rise above the paralysis of governments and act?