The AfriKin Foundation hosted its “AfriKin: Art, Jazz & Champagne” event on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Maison AfriKin inside the Scott Galvin Community Center in downtown North Miami, bringing together art, live jazz, and cultural celebration in recognition of Women’s History Month.
According to organizers, the evening transformed Maison AfriKin into a jazz lounge atmosphere inspired by renowned venues from New York’s Blue Note to legendary rooms in Los Angeles. Guests gathered for a night that blended music, visual art, and community engagement, with champagne, conversation, and performances shaping the experience.
The event featured an all-women art exhibition showcasing artists from Africa and the diaspora, which served as the visual centerpiece of the evening. Culinary offerings included AfriKin tapas prepared by Chef Abdul Mushin, while mixologist Shaion provided specialty drinks throughout the night.
The program moved into the Jazz room where AfriKin’s founder welcomed attendees and spoke about the organization’s mission before live performances began.
The evening opened with The Harden Project, featuring Ja’Nia and John, who performed a mix of jazz and blues before incorporating selections from Bob Marley. Organizers said the performance set the tone for the night, drawing audience participation and emotional engagement.
The headlining set featured Leesa Richards & Friends, with Richards and Marcus performing standards associated with Nancy Wilson and Ella Fitzgerald. The performance included saxophone accompaniment and drew enthusiastic responses from the multiethnic audience, with champagne toasts punctuating the set.
The evening concluded with a ceremonial drum tribute by Mustafa Wright, who highlighted the drum’s cultural significance in African traditions. Wright invited audience members to participate in drumming and singing, closing the night with a communal performance.
Organizers expressed gratitude to the City of North Miami for its continued partnership and support, noting that the 2026 AfriKin: Art, Jazz & Champagne event marked another milestone for the foundation’s ongoing efforts to celebrate African and diaspora culture.
