The GEANCO Foundation, which saves and transforms lives in Africa, will hold its annual star-studded Hollywood fundraiser on Tuesday, October 3, at Spectra in the Pacific Design Center.
Each year, GEANCO hosts this benefit to rally support for vulnerable women and children in Nigeria. Golden Globe nominee and GEANCO’s 2015 Global Promise Award recipient David Oyelowo (Selma, Interstellar, Queen of Katwe) will host the event alongside NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon. Three-time Grammy winner Kevin K.O. Olusola of the multi-platinum musical group Pentatonix will open the program with a special musical performance.
“David and Warren are cherished, dedicated leaders of our GEANCO Foundation family of supporters,” said Afam Onyema, GEANCO’s Co-Founder and COO. “I am honored to have them as our event co-Chairs, and we are especially delighted that Kevin will inspire us all with his brilliant musical talent.”
Oscar-nominated actors and previous Global Promise honorees Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange, Sherlock, The Imitation Game) and Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave, Doctor Strange) will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs. The Host Committee includes Marcellus Wiley (host of ESPN television show SportsNation and the radio show Marcellus & Kelvin), Mark Johnson (Oscar- and Emmy-winning producer of Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul and Rain Man), Yvonne Orji (HBO’s Insecure) and Billy Ray (Oscar-nominated writer of Captain Phillips and The Hunger Games). Sponsors include Walt Disney Studios, Participant Media, Creative Artists Agency, Latham & Watkins LLP, Pender Capital and Neuro Drink.
Event proceeds will underwrite GEANCO’s November 2017 medical mission, which will provide free hip and knee replacement surgeries to Nigerians in dire need. Donations will also support the David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship for Girls, which provides comprehensive academic, medical and psychological support to young female victims of terrorism in Nigeria.
VIP and General Admission tickets are available for purchase on the event website. VIP ticket holders receive exclusive access to a special reception from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m., where they will enjoy a premium open bar and delicious Africa-influenced appetizers while mingling with celebrities and other notable guests. General admission entry begins at 6:45 p.m. The program kicks off at 8 p.m. with Kevin K.O. Olusola’s performance, celebrity remarks and a special video presentation of GEANCO’s work in Nigeria.
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