Browsing: Local News

The Old Dillard Foundation brought culture, unity, and rhythm to the heart of Fort Lauderdale with its annual Kwanzaa Soirée, held at MOV Fusion Bar & Grill Restaurant. Sponsored by Cigna Health Care, the Broward Cultural Arts Division, and The Westside Gazette, the event was an inspiring celebration of African heritage, community values, and the collective spirit of Kwanzaa.

       Billed as “Where Culture Meets the Coast,” the nationally acclaimed event brings together some of the country’s most electrifying Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands for a high-energy showcase of music, precision, and legacy. The Palm Beaches will serve as the backdrop for a celebration that blends cultural heritage with world-class performance.

     So, as I keep walking this journey, I’m learning to balance the fire with stillness, the mission with the moment, and the purpose with peace. Because at the end of the day, both the gift and the weight are part of what makes me, and maybe you, exactly who we’re meant to be.

       During this time of year, many people focus on buying physical gifts, but I’ve learned that giving experiences and spreading joy is more important. Several weeks ago, I had the chance to volunteer at a food and toy drive at New Mount Olive Baptist Church. This event was a team effort between New Mount Olive Baptist Church, Community Education Alliance (CEA) and the Mount Olive Development Corporation (MODCO). By working together, these groups created a great support system for people who needed it, and I felt proud to help make a difference in my own neighborhood.

       Partnering with the Ujima Men’s Group, the evening unfolded as a reminder that progress is never a solo journey. Families arrived with lawn chairs and shared stories, elders nodded in recognition, and children moved freely among generations—learning by watching, listening, and participating.