It was a deeply humbling night, May 17th, at the Malaika10 Benefit as attendees celebrated the Malaika organization’s 10th year anniversary.
The benefit was held at Espace in Manhattan, New York in honor of a foundation very near and dear to the heart of it’s founder, Congolese philanthropist and model, Noella Coursaris Musunka.
Noella expressed her immense gratitude as she addressed the participants of the evening, for their donations to the guidance of education and teaching in the lives of young girls everywhere. “Every child in the world should be at school. The same way I offer education for my kids, I want to offer for underprivileged children,” says Noella. “We have an amazing team that believes in education.”
The festivities were hosted by media personality, Tai Beauchamp, as the night held authentic African dance choreography, a silent auction, and impressive performances by rapper Eve and Congo’s own Fally Ipupa.
Eve Performs at the Malaika10 Benefit
Proceeds of the night went directly towards the building of the school’s newest infirmary in honor of a young girl who lost her life due to an unidentifiable illness.
Yet, Laurianne, Lousie, and Mamie, 6th graders from the Malaika School, stole the hearts of everyone in attendance.
“I have come to this city out of 5 people, four boys, and one girl,” says Lauriane Lenge Wa Mpitshi in her native language. “[The Malaika School] is teaching me a quality education, because of the competence and the dedication of the staff and my teachers at my school.”
Noella Coursaris Musunka translates the letters the young girls have written
The girls expressed aspirations to be the future computer scientists and journalists to “one day report to the world”.
Stars and celebrities alike came in support of the cause that has captured the attention of donors across the world. Khaliah Ali, daughter of famed boxer Muhammad Ali, and Elle Magazine’s editor, Robbie Meyers, spoke volumes in support of the Malaika organization.
Tai Beauchamp, the stunning mistress of ceremonies for the evening, was more than intrigued when approached by her friend to join Noella’s fight. “Interesting story, when Noella says something, you just do it,” says Tai. “I am a believer in young girls, and I went to an all girls high school and college, so I know the power of education when you educate a young woman.”
Tai Beauchamp Hosting the Night’s Events
The night was filled with the beauty of Congo, as each wall was cluttered with the pictures of the smiling young girls being benefited.
To get involved visit www.malaika.org to sponsor a girl for the year, donate school supplies, and sponsor a teacher.