There are many events throughout the year that ArtsWave and the Circle of African American Leaders for the Arts are proud to support, because they touch on the common goals of our community—goals like empowerment, diversity, passion and connectivity through the arts. One such event that embodies these goals is "Dada Rafiki: A Celebration of Sisterhood," and the person behind it is Annie Ruth. Annie is an award-winning poet and author, and has taken her ability to unite people through word and turned that into this community event.

Dada Rafiki (pronounced Dah-Dah RAH fee-KEE), which means “sister friend” in the Kiswahili language of East Africa, is an empowering cultural gathering that seeks to celebrate remarkable women in our community by honoring their passion and accomplishments. This year’s honorees include community leaders such as Jeaunita Olowe, Managing Director of Bi-Okoto Dance Cultural Center; Heather Hallenberg, (retired) Director of Grantmaking and Strategic Initiatives at ArtsWave; and Dr. Tonya Marie Matthews, President and CEO of the Michigan Science Center.

Hosted by WLWT’s news anchor Courtis Fuller, this celebration and award ceremony treats guests to performances spanning multiple art forms, including spoken word, music, dance and visual art. Although "Dada Rafiki" is Afrocentric in nature, it is welcoming to a multicultural audience.

This one-night event takes place on October 27 at the Aronoff Center and is a must-attend for all who seek to be inspired and to uplift the people who make our communities terrific. For more information and ticket options, please visit www.CincinnatiArts.org or call (513) 977-4157.