AAI to Host 2016 Annual Awards Gala on Sept. 20

Grammy Award Winning Singer & Activist Angelique Kidjo to Serve as Honorary Gala Chair of AAI 2016 Awards Gala

During the opening week of the UN General Assembly and evening of the US-Africa Business Forum, The Africa-America Institute will host its spectacular Annual Awards Gala on Tuesday, September 20, in New York City.

The gala theme is "Education: The Key to Africa's Economic Growth". The gala will honor Stephen Hayes, President and CEO of the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) with the AAI 2016 U.S. Business Leader Award and Sunil Benimadhu, Executive Director of the Stock Exchange of Mauritius (SEM) with the AAI 2016 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Distinguished U.S. and African leaders and top diplomats will gather for one of the most high profile Africa-focused event in New York City.

Each year, AAI presents awards to extraordinary individuals and corporations who have made remarkable contributions to socio-economic development progress in Africa.

The Africa-America Institute is the premier U.S.-based international organization that works to increase the capacity of African individuals and institutions through higher education initiatives, leadership development, professional workforce training, convening activities, program implementation and management. AAI's mission is to promote enlightened engagement between Africa and America through education, training and dialogue.

The Awards Gala will also shine a spotlight on African nations making tremendous progress in advancing access to education and economic growth. Stay tuned for the unveiling of the countries.