By Okon Ekpenyong , with pictures from Ohio African Community Excellence Award

On Saturday evening,June 22, 2024 the stars shone brightly at King Hall, the heart of the Northland Plaza Shopping Center, Columbus, Ohio.The event was a vibrant display of African Excellence, with individuals donning elegant evening gowns, tuxedos, and traditional West African attire at Ohio’s African Community Awards. It was a night of celebration and recognition for these diverse and shining individuals.

The air was filled with praise and excitement as these exceptional individuals, whose dedicated service to their community often goes unnoticed, took center stage to accept their awards. Their recognition, profound appreciation, and celebration are a testament to their impactful work and dedication, which inspire us all and make us proud of our community. 

The Ohio African Community Excellence Awards, a significant annual event, is more than just a celebration of individual achievements. It’s a testament to the unity and collective triumph of the African community in Ohio. It’s a celebration that honors the accomplishments and contributions of African individuals and organizations in various fields and fosters a strong sense of togetherness and shared pride.

Afro614 Radio/TV, Ohio African Community Excellence Awards, members from the Ghana Council Ohio, and others were instrumental in the success of this remarkable night.

“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. She is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things,” an attendee said about Madam Cythnia Engmann, one of the night’s winners and the President of the Ghana Council Columbus.

The story of Jude Kofie, a young Ghanaian-American boy with autism, is truly heartwarming. In 2023, CBS News covered his remarkable story of receiving a $15,000 piano from a stranger after impressing them with his musical talent, which has since gained widespread attention. Meeting Jude at the award ceremony and hearing more about his journey was a great opportunity. 

This story serves as a reminder of the power of music and the kindness of strangers. Jude’s father deserves recognition for his extraordinary strength in keeping the family in faith. At the Ohio African Excellence Awards, Jude received a standing ovation, and his father stood proudly by his side. This story is a testament to the perseverance and resilience of individuals with autism and the impact that a little kindness and support can have on their lives.

Jude Kofie mesmerized the audience with his breathtaking piano and vocal performance, prompting everyone to sing along to every song. The other musicians set the dance floor on fire, showcasing our community’s diverse and thriving talent. They were there to do more than sit around; they were there to groove in a space filled with talent, entertaining us all and reminding us of the richness of our community.

Some of the individuals listed below emerged as the notable winners of the night: Mr. & Mrs. Agyekum, Apostle Prince Bonsu, Apostle Fred Kumah Boateng, Apostle Alex Abrokwah, Jude Kofie, Jennifer Mensah-Bonzie, Pastor Dr. Leah Wilson, Lisa Bannerman, Harrison Poku, Alpha Tongor, Ben Konadu, Taj Bakare Pe, M.ASCE, Peter Womber, Madam Cynthia Engmann, Marima Twumasi Bekoe II, Alberta Ablordeppey, Deba Uwadiae, Mr. Omono Kojo Asamoah, and Akwantefuo AK24 Entertainment.

Deba Uwadiae, publisher of New Americans Magazine, received the Ohio African Excellence Award for highlighting the achievements of African and other immigrant groups. Alpha Tongor, executive director of Liberian in Columbus, works to recognize and celebrate Liberians while raising awareness of their challenges. Community events organized by the LICI are inclusive, attracting participation from various ethnic groups. Harrison Poku, a strong advocate for the Ohio Ghana Festival, received recognition for his continuous involvement in encouraging youth to strive and be their best versions.

The winners’ recognition set the tone for all attendees as the night ended at the Ohio African Conference Excellence Award. It was a reminder that giving back to the community is a noble act and a discipline of god’s work. Whether receiving accolades or not, inspiring others and carrying the community on one’s back is a true testimony of leadership, just as Moses did for his people. Let us all strive to lead by example and positively impact our communities.

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