IANA Blog- August 2024 Part I

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Happy August,


From August 9th to the 11th, we had our 2024 IANA Convention and Regional Gala in New York City…Queens, New York to be exact. Like I did with our Convention weekend in Chicago, Illinois, here is a recap of what you missed.


Friday

Friday was the first day of the convention. We met at LaGuardia Plaza Hotel in Queens, welcoming everyone. The 2nd Gen Dream Team would also present a powerpoint of the Progress Update led by IANA 2nd Gen President Chiedu Nwaesei, Vice President Ifeany Azul, Jr., Secretary Ogechukwuka Nwaesei, Assistant Secretary Onyebuchim Nwaesei, Treasurer Onyi Ozoma…and me. Unfortunately, our other public relations officers Chekwume Nwaesei and Chekwume Ufoegbune couldn’t make it, but were there in spirit. After that, it’s bowling time.

Oh yeah…I forgot to mention that…his royal majesty…Obi Nduka Henry Ezeagwuna II made it to the convention this year.


Saturday

We started off Saturday with a Lunch and the IANA Membership Meeting, similar to last year’s meeting, but the highlight of the meeting came from his royal majesty, King Obi having a Q&A. I remember King Obi talking about how he dreams of unity within all of Nigeria, regardless of religion or tribe. He also talked about how the people in the villages must work together to help each other, since the Nigerian government won’t provide the right resources. Those answers really resonated with me.

After a long lunch, it was time to get ready for the Gala. The Gala was held at the Igbo Organization in Saint Albans, Queens. The Igbo Organization is a non-profit cultural organization formed to celebrate the importance of Igbo heritage. The main theme was wearing White for both 1st and 2nd Gen, money was being donated and memories were made, especially with the arrival of King Obi. 

The event also featured a return from spoken word artist Kendryk Younglood and his beautiful Black American queen, artist and designer Li’zae as they did a combined spoken word as Kendryk talked about her experiences and difficulties growing up as a Nigerian American, while Li’zae spoke about her experiences and difficulties growing up as a dark-skinned Black girl and how they were able to connect together, especially with a Coming to America reference. Everyone loved it, especially the King.

We finished off the night with eating, celebrating…and dancing…as expected.


Sunday


The final day of the IANA Weekend. Others got ready for the pool party while others got ready to head back home.


Here are more photos from the weekend.

Another IANA convention was held and another success. Next convention will be in Detroit, Michigan. We’ll see ya next time.

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