FORT LAUDERALE, FL — December 27, 2025: 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.
The evening opened with a warm welcome from Old Dillard Foundation President Randy Corinthian, followed by a powerful reflection on the history and meaning of Kwanzaa delivered by Vice President Bishop Melvin Dawson Jr. Their messages set a tone of unity and cultural pride that resonated throughout the night.
The celebration continued with a moving Kwanzaa presentation by Kreative Uprising, under the artistic direction of Alana DaCosta. captivated the audience with her heartfelt reading of a poem titled “Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)”, followed by an expressive dance performance embodying the principles of empowerment and creativity.
Music soon filled the air with an energetic set by Cande Rivers, performing crowd favorites including “Rock With You” and “Remember The Time.” Guests also participated in a lively silent auction, supporting local cultural and educational initiatives.
As the evening transitioned into the DJ takeover, the beats transformed MOV Fusion into a dance floor of joy and connection. The music stirred the crowd—inviting guests to move, sway, and dance the night away in the true spirit of celebration and community.
The Old Dillard Foundation’s Kwanzaa Soirée 2025 was more than an event—it was a cultural experience that honored tradition, uplifted artistry, and strengthened the bonds throughout the local community.
About the Old Dillard Foundation:
The Old Dillard Foundation is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the African American experience through education, music, and the arts. Its programs continue to inspire dialogue, creativity, and community engagement throughout South Florida.
