A landmark night of African excellence unites diplomats, investors, entrepreneurs, and cultural icons at the National Museum of African Art
-- EMY Africa brought together some of Africa's most influential leaders, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and changemakers last night for the highly anticipated EMY Africa Washington, D.C. Soirée, an historical landmark gathering held on Thursday, 25 June 2026 at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C.
Set against the backdrop of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, one of the world's most watched global events, the soirée drew an extraordinary assembly of African and diaspora leaders for an evening of strategic connection, cultural celebration, and forward-looking dialogue. The gathering is being hailed as one of the most significant African Diaspora convenings to take place in the United States during the tournament period.
The evening brought together distinguished voices from across business, diplomacy, government, sport, and culture, including notable guests from both sides of the Atlantic. Among those in attendance were Ghana's Ambassador to the United States, His Excellence Mr. Victor Emmanuel Smith; Kofi Okyere Darko, Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President of Ghana; and Deniece Laurent-Mantey, Special Advisor in the Bureau of African Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, alongside a representative from the Mayor of Washington, D.C.'s Office on African Affairs.
From the world of business and investment, the evening welcomed Mr. Alex Dadey, Executive Chairman of KGL Group; Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, Executive Chairman of Special Investment; and Richard Nii Armah Quaye, President of RNAQ Holdings. Diplomat Mr. and Mrs. Bernard and Ama Quantson, alongside Kevin Boateng, CEO of Face to Face Africa, and entrepreneur and legal professional Lala Dutches, added to the breadth of representation across industries and geographies.
Cultural and creative voices were equally prominent. International author, speaker and actress Michelle McKinney Hammond brought her signature presence to the evening, while Ghanaian football legend Samuel Osei Kuffour represented the power of sport as a unifying force across the African diaspora. The gathering was further enriched by the participation of the Benard and Ama Quantson family, a distinguished diplomatic household whose ties bridge continents.
The evening served as a powerful reflection of EMY Africa's growing international footprint and its mission to connect influential voices shaping Africa's future across continents.
Guests were welcomed into the iconic Smithsonian setting for an evening of networking, cultural appreciation, thought leadership, and relationship-building. Conversations throughout the event focused on strengthening economic partnerships, increasing diaspora engagement, promoting investment opportunities, advancing cultural diplomacy, and amplifying Africa's role in shaping global progress.
A highlight of the evening was the collective recognition of the remarkable achievements of Africans and members of the diaspora who continue to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, governance, philanthropy, media, sports, and cultural influence worldwide.
Speaking at the event, EMY Africa Founder and Executive Director, Daniel Kojo Soboh, emphasised the importance of creating platforms that foster meaningful engagement between Africa and its global communities.
"The EMY Africa Washington, D.C. Soirée represents the very essence of our vision, connecting Africa's brightest minds and most influential voices wherever they may be in the world. Tonight demonstrated the immense power of collaboration between the continent and its diaspora. As Africa continues to rise as a global force, these connections will be instrumental in driving investment, innovation, cultural exchange, and sustainable development."
He added that "The EMY Africa Washington, D.C. Soirée at the Smithsonian during the FIFA World Cup is more than a celebration, it is a powerful bridge connecting Africa with its diaspora across North America and the United States. At a time when the world's attention is on this region, we have a unique opportunity to showcase African excellence, strengthen cultural and economic ties, and deepen the bonds that unite Africans and people of African heritage globally."
The gathering also highlighted the increasing significance of the African diaspora as a catalyst for economic growth, diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and global influence. With attendees representing diverse sectors and geographies, the soirée showcased the strength of a globally connected African community united by excellence, purpose, and impact.
Hosting the event at the National Museum of African Art added further significance to the occasion. As one of the world's foremost institutions dedicated to preserving and celebrating African art, history, and culture, the venue provided an inspiring backdrop for an evening centred on achievement, heritage, and future opportunity.
The Washington, D.C. Soirée marks a defining milestone in EMY Africa's international journey and reinforces its commitment to elevating African success stories on the global stage. Building on more than a decade of celebrating excellence across the continent, EMY Africa continues to create platforms that foster collaboration, inspire leadership, and strengthen connections between Africa, its diaspora communities worldwide and African-Americans.
As conversations initiated during the soirée continue beyond Washington, the event stands as a testament to the growing influence of African leaders and innovators globally and the limitless opportunities that emerge when Africa and its diaspora come together with a shared vision for the future.
About EMY Africa
EMY Africa is the continent's leading platform for recognising, celebrating, and amplifying African excellence. Through its prestigious awards, leadership forums, cultural initiatives, and international engagements, EMY Africa honours individuals and institutions whose achievements are transforming industries, shaping societies, and advancing Africa's global influence.
For more information, visit www.emyafrica.com.
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Organization: EMY Africa
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