AfroEuropa Gala calls for greater investment in youth development

The fifth edition of the AFROEUROPA Gala & Awards Night has been held in London, with a call for greater investment in young people, education, healthcare, community safety and cultural tolerance.

The event, held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at The City Pavilion, Collier Row, Romford, was themed, “Fostering a United & Flourishing Community for Future Generations.”

The theme placed young people at the centre of the organisation’s agenda, with speakers stressing the need to prepare them for leadership while promoting peaceful coexistence, respect for cultural differences and social inclusion.

According to the organisers, a flourishing future generation should not be measured solely by economic success, but should also encompass education, healthcare, community safety and social tolerance.

Speakers at the event, including Professor Pavin Somani and the Executive Secretary of Nigeria’s Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr Aisha Garba, highlighted the importance of quality education, regular health checks, crime prevention and drug awareness in safeguarding the wellbeing and future of young people.

The fifth anniversary celebration attracted dignitaries and community leaders, including the Mayor of Islington, Her Worshipful Councillor Rosaline Ogunro; the Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, His Worshipful Councillor Manzoor Hussain; and two-time former Mayor of Enfield, Dr Kate Anolue.

Diplomats from the Nigeria High Commission in the United Kingdom, councillors, entrepreneurs, community elders and other community champions were also in attendance.

One of the highlights of the evening was a colourful cultural performance by the Warmis Ecuadorian cultural group, which showcased cultural diversity and reinforced the event’s message of unity and inclusion.

The event also featured an awards presentation, with the mayors honouring individuals whose initiatives and projects have contributed to community development.

The raffle draw provided another memorable moment, with winners taking home prizes, including 65-inch, 58-inch and 55-inch television sets.

Unlike conventional gala events, AFROEUROPA said its annual celebration does not include a fundraising segment. Instead, the organisation uses the occasion to support charities working with vulnerable members of the community through branded items and financial donations received.

This year, the organisation is supporting the DL Games, an initiative focused on cancer awareness and fundraising for haematology cancer care at University College London Hospital.

The organisers said the initiative reflects AFROEUROPA’s broader commitment to building stronger, healthier and more inclusive communities for present and future generations.

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