AWC Holds First Meeting in 2011

Invigorating, productive and fun are fitting words to describe AWC first meeting for 2011, held on Saturday, April 30, at Flamingo Restaurant in St. Paul, Minnesota.

It was really good to hear a newcomer say that she didn't know that an organization like ours existed. AWC is truly one of the best kept secrets that have the potential to influence how we work together in our community. That is why we are always grateful when women recognize its value and invite others to share in the AWC experience. Word-of-mouth has worked out the best for getting the word out about AWC.

We kicked off the meeting with introductions (elevator speech style) including a statement about how we can help the speaker succeed. As always, the ladies around the table were all very busy and accomplished people. Flamingo Restaurant did not disappoint either--the dishes were delicious and the atmosphere cozy and friendly.

Together, we supported an ethic minority and woman-owned small business, we supported each other and we contributed to conversations about personal, professional and community interests.

There are always many reasons to complain about when it comes to the African community and its people. We could come up with an unending list of things, so the critical question of the day was “What do you appreciate about our community?” It was really refreshing to hear the responses and focus on the positives for a change. They included:

·         A  great sense of community/ unity (depending on how you look at it)

·         Openness of the people

·         A sense of sisterhood/brotherhood/family

·         Africans dress beautifully; especially for special occasions

·         Entrepreneurial spirit

·         African people are resilient

AWC exists because of the women who get involved and make things happen. Each person fully participating, as often as possible, is a key ingredient to its success. We appreciate everyone who took the time to come and make our first meeting a success. We all gain so much more when we connect and work together.

AWC Exhibits at Senegalese Independence Day Celebration

 

Attendees dancing to Senegalese music.

AWC exhibited at the Senegalese Independence Day celebration, held on Saturday, April 30, in St. Paul, Minnesota. The Republic of Senegal is located in western Africa and the official Independence Day falls on April 4.

“Exhibiting at community events is one of the ways we get the word out,” said Rita Apaloo, president of AWC. “Thanks to our extensive networks through the women who attend AWC events, we often get the inside scope when it comes to what's going on in various African communities, which ultimately leads to valuable connections and new prospects.”

Senegalese Beauties!

Hadi, a community leader in the Senegalese Community, who is also a friend of AWC, invited us to participate. We ran into some old friends and made new ones.

The event was family-friendly with plenty of food, dancing and fun. What a great way to spend time with a wonderful crowd and experience Senegalese hospitality and culture!

Hadi, friend of AWC and Rita Apaloo, president of AWC.

A good time was had by all!