Unity, Innovation, and Leadership: Highlights from ARDN’s 7th Annual Africa Open for Business Summit During the United Nations General Assembly

Explore the highlights from ARDN’s 7th Annual Africa Open for Business Summit, promoting unity, innovation, and leadership in Africa during the UN General Assembly.

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New York, N.Y. – October 1, 2024 – The African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN) had the honor of recognizing exemplary leaders, emerging entrepreneurs, and influential tourism innovators during the 7th Annual Africa Open for Business Summit (AOB), held on September 27, 2024, at the Trusteeship Council Chambers of the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Senegal to the United Nations co-organized the summit and was generously supported by the World Madam Foundation, founded by Ms. Anni Huang.

Alongside engaging discussions, ARDN presented the 2024 ARDN Awards, celebrating individuals for their significant contributions to civil rights, equality, economic empowerment, and leadership: 

• Dr. Kenneth Harris, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Black Business (NABB), was bestowed with the prestigious 2024 ARDN Award for Inspiring Economic Growth. This accolade recognizes his pivotal role in fostering economic empowerment within Black communities through strategic entrepreneurship initiatives. Under Dr. Harris’s leadership, the NABB, co-founded by the National Business League®, the National Black Chamber of Commerce®, and the World Conference of Mayors®, has emerged as a unifying force, bringing together influential Black business organizations to create a powerful synergy. This coalition represents a formidable alliance dedicated to driving sustainable economic growth.

• 2024 ARDN Civil Rights Award: Ambassador Cheikh Niang, representing the Permanent Mission of Senegal to the United Nations, was recognized for his steadfast support of ARDN’s initiatives, particularly in securing essential resources to enhance ARDN’s engagement with global leaders on civil rights and social justice.
• 2024 ARDN Commitment to Equality Award: Olivier Laouchez, Founder and CEO of Trace TV, was honored for his leadership in advancing Afrocentric culture, shaping global perceptions of African culture, and combating discrimination and gender-based violence.
• 2024 ARDN Award for Inspirational Leadership: Elizabeth J. Stroble, Ph.D., was celebrated for her transformative leadership in higher education, advocating for inclusion, equity, and global partnerships to expand educational access worldwide.
  

Hosted by Dr Djibril Diallo, President and CEO of ARDN, the summit assembled global leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and activists to discuss Africa’s economic and social development. It also provided a platform for diverse stakeholders to share perspectives, ideas, and experiences and formulate solutions for creating a better world by leveraging business.

The event commenced on September 26th with a VIP Luncheon at the iconic Tudor City Steakhouse in New York. This elegant, invitation-only gathering, sponsored by the World Madam Foundation, fostered impactful dialogues that intertwined global perspectives with African heritage to inspire action and propel sustainable progress.

On September 27th, the AOB Summit started with an opening ceremony, which included remarks by Diene Keita, Deputy Executive Director/ Programs for UNFPA it featured two engaging panel discussions:

The first discussion, “Business and Culture: Young Entrepreneurs of African Descent Driving Sustainable Development,” highlighted young innovators who blend business innovation with cultural heritage to further the Sustainable Development Goals. These visionary entrepreneurs are redefining industries while maintaining a profound connection to their cultural identities, fostering sustainable prosperity across Africa and its diaspora.

The second panel discussion focused on Tourism in Africa. The panel examined opportunities and strategies for expanding Africa’s tourism sector.

A notable summit highlight was the introduction of ARDN’s new anthem, presented by Michael Zgarka, President and CEO of HitLab. This anthem symbolizes unity and motivation, reinforcing ARDN’s commitment to advancing the United Nations’ SDGs.

The event showcased an impressive consortium of partners and collaborators, highlighting a diverse coalition of diplomatic, cultural, and business entities. The Permanent Mission of Senegal to the United Nations was instrumental, lending significant diplomatic weight to the proceedings. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) provided perspectives on the United Nations system. Notable organizations such as the World Madam Foundation and the National Council of Negro Women contributed their expertise in women’s empowerment and civil rights. Influential business groups, including the National Alliance for Black Business, the National Business League, and the National Black Chamber of Commerce, provided valuable insights into economic development and entrepreneurship within the African diaspora. The World Conference of Mayors and the Historic Black Towns and Settlements Alliance also offered their esteemed support.

Furthermore, the event spotlighted ARDN’s groundbreaking Red Card Pledge, a global initiative to eradicate violence and discrimination against women and girls.

For further information, please contact:

​Website: www.ardn.ngo

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