The Millennial Gala: A Night of Tradition, Community & Impact
September 5, 2026 | Washington, D.C.
Some nights are more than an event. They become a reminder of who we are, where we come from, and what we can build together.
On September 5, Huda Strategies welcomed guests to the 5th Annual Millennial Gala: Threads of Tradition at the Royal Sonesta in Washington, D.C. What began as an idea rooted in community has grown into an annual gathering that brings together changemakers, leaders, advocates, friends, and supporters around culture, connection, and impact.
Honoring The Person Center
At the heart of this year's celebration was The Person Center, our 2026 honorary organization. The Person Center is a Washington, D.C.-based organization dedicated to supporting African immigrant survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Their work provides survivor-centered support while helping individuals move toward safety, stability, healing, and self-determination. We were honored to shine a light on that work and the importance of building communities where survivors are believed, supported, and empowered. The evening also featured keynote remarks from Lul Mohamud, MPH, Executive Director of The Person Center, whose leadership and commitment to this work continue to inspire. The program included a powerful parable discussion featuring Daon McLarin Johnson and Fatoumata Keita, with the evening hosted by CJ Obima. Their presence reinforced something we believe deeply at Huda Strategies: community impact begins when we are willing to listen to one another's stories and turn those stories into action.
A Celebration of Community
There was something incredibly special about looking around the room and seeing so many people who believe in the power of community. The Millennial Gala has always been about more than a beautiful evening. It is about creating a space where relationships are strengthened, stories are shared, cultures are celebrated, and people are reminded that they have a role to play in shaping the future.
This year, that spirit was everywhere.
From the conversations happening throughout the evening to the cultural expressions that brought Threads of Tradition to life, the gala reflected the diversity, resilience, and creativity of the communities we are proud to serve.
Carrying the Thread Forward
Five years ago, the Millennial Gala began with a vision.
Five years later, we are reminded that the thread is still being woven.
Every person who attended, sponsored, donated, volunteered, shared a story, supported The Person Center, or simply showed up contributed to something larger than themselves. That is the beauty of community: none of us carries the entire story alone.
We carry a piece.
When we come together and combine our strengths, we create something far greater than what any individual could achieve alone. As we reflect on September 5, we feel immense gratitude for our guests, partners, speakers, sponsors, supporters, and everyone who contributed to making the 5th annual Millennial Gala a success. Most importantly, we are thankful for the chance to celebrate our heritage while investing in our future.
The gala may be over, but the work continues.
The stories continue.
The relationships continue.
The mission continues.
And the thread moves forward.
Thank you for being part of the 2026 Millennial Gala: Threads of Tradition.
Comments