The BK Arena will transform into a dazzling showcase of creativity, culture, and purpose as The Silver Gala returns on November 1. The annual event celebrates African excellence while empowering Rwandan youth through the arts. Founded and directed by Rwandan-British creative Sherrie Silver — UN IFAD Advocate for Rural Youth and MTV Award-winning choreographer — the gala draws inspiration from her global career, including her work with Vogue at the Met Gala. ALSO READ: The Silver Gala returns, promises bigger experience This year’s edition will reach even wider audiences, with performances set to air on Trace TV, offering unprecedented exposure for participating artists. All proceeds will benefit the Sherrie Silver Foundation, which provides free dance, music, and education programs to more than 800 young Rwandans. The foundation also plans to establish Rwanda’s first Broadway-inspired creative arts center. ALSO READ: From vulnerability to visibility: The children thriving at the Sherrie Silver Foundation “The gala is basically about having dinner with me and my friends,” Silver said. “But beyond the glamour and the performances, it’s about showing these kids that they’re worth something and that they are the future leaders. Many of them have come from backgrounds where they had never even entered a car. On the day of the gala, they’ll arrive in a VW convoy as true VIPs because they are. They’re performing alongside some of Rwanda’s biggest stars, and every artiste has worked so hard to make this a magical evening.” Performances will feature intergenerational collaborations — from toddlers to young adults — alongside some of East Africa’s leading talents, including Chella (Nigeria), Massamba Intore, Butera Knowless, Chriss Eazy, Ross Kana, Juno Kizigenza, Sherrie Silver, and a surprise guest artist. Kenya’s Eric Omondi and Rwanda’s Makeda Mahadeo will co-host the evening, while a special guest from Kenya will lead the red carpet. “Everyone who’s met those children falls in love with them immediately. Sherrie has done her part; now it’s time for all of us to do ours,” said Makeda Mahadeo. Singer Ross Kana said he was grateful to join this year’s lineup after being inspired by the previous edition. “Sherrie has trained us not only in performance but in discipline and direction. I’ve never prepared this much for a show. People should expect something extraordinary,” he said. Veteran traditional artist Massamba Intore added that initiatives like the Silver Gala should be encouraged for their role in promoting both children and the arts. The night will also highlight East Africa’s design scene through the Best in Fashion competition, featuring seven designers competing for a $5,000 prize, mentorship with Ugo Mozie (US), and a custom award. Judges include Ugo Mozie, Jolly Mutesi, and Ifeanyi Nwune (Nigeria). Guests can also look forward to a charity auction featuring exclusive prizes such as nights at One&Only Nyungwe House, membership at The Pinnacle Kigali, official signed jerseys, and a culinary experience at Meza Malonga.
