Once we interview people, we always make an effort to circle back and check on their progress. Earlier this year, we did a piece on the Nyamwange Foundation, and this week was their annual Gala. At the Gala, they presented awards to trailblazers in Jersey City and had scholarship recipients from this year. Nyamwange is a unique organization because they don't simply give outstanding High School students scholarships, but they give them mentorship, and every year they take a cohort of students to Kenya for their Birthright Afrika trip. This year they will be sending 5 students and 30 volunteers.
Besides the students, a notable recipient of recognition was Jerry Walker, who received the Viola Richardson Award. Jerry Walker and his foundation Team Walker are very active in Jersey City servicing youth through both academic programs and recreation programs. This award is named after Viola Richardson who was a prolific Jersey City Councilwoman who was active in the community and left a profound impact on the lives of many, including Nyamwange Foundation founder, Joseph Nyamwange.
Another notable moment of the evening was the Nyamwange Foundation receiving a proclamation from the state of New Jersey. The state issues proclamations and letters of support for certain events and personal accomplishments deserving of recognition or to increase awareness of significant issues of importance in the State of New Jersey. Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato and state Senator Angela McKnight presented the award.
