The Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation held its second Annual Dreams in Action Gala on May 12, 2026, on the rooftop of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, advancing its 25th anniversary fundraising campaign. The Bed-Stuy-based nonprofit has now reached 45 percent of its $500,000 goal, aimed at expanding youth arts education and cultural programming.
The evening brought together performances from across the organization’s artistic programs, including the Tiny Tots, Youth Ensemble and the Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater. Honorees were also recognized with Dreams in Action Excellence Awards for their contributions to arts and community engagement.
Corporate and philanthropic support played a central role in the night’s fundraising. Turner Construction Company contributed $25,000 to the gala, while the Howard Gillman Foundation provided $25,000 in direct support to the anniversary initiative along with a $25,000 matching grant. Additional donations made during the campaign are eligible for matching support through November, increasing the overall fundraising potential.
“For 25 years, Asase Yaa has remained committed to empowering our community through arts and cultural education,” said K. Osei Williams, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation. “The support shown during this year’s gala reinforces our anniversary theme, We Strive To Thrive and the importance of investing in the next generation of artists, leaders and cultural ambassadors.”
Funds raised will support after-school programs, arts education, performance training and scholarships for young people across underserved communities. Since its founding in 2001, the organization has built programming centered on African diaspora dance, music and cultural education, serving thousands of youth in Brooklyn.
The event was hosted by HOT 97 personality Shani Kulture and journalist Sharon Gordon, with DJ Spinna leading the afterparty set. Organizers emphasized continued investment in arts access and youth development as the anniversary campaign progresses.
The Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater is also scheduled to appear at the Brooklyn Academy of Music DanceAfrica Festival from May 22–25, presenting excerpts from its production The Revival: Djembe in the New Millennium during its ongoing national tour.
The gala underscored the organization’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to arts education and opportunities for young people across Brooklyn.
