The end-of-semester ball, themed the African Wedding Experience, was the initiative of current GAPSA president Miracle Enwere, a PhD candidate in Chemistry from Nigeria, whose vision was to celebrate and showcase the vibrant and rich African culture represented within the UVA community. “Our goal has always been to make UVA a home away from home for all graduate and professional students of African descent,” Enwere said. “This event is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of GAPSA’s executive team and committee members across Grounds.”
The ball brought together students, faculty, and staff from across Grounds for feasting, pageantry, dancing, poetry, theatrical performances, speech-making, awards, and music. A key highlight of the night was the African Country Parade. Participants represented nine African countries: Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Sudan, Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Cameroon, Ethiopia, and Senegal.