One Voice DSM End of Year Newsletter

A special message from our leaders

I’m excited to see the fourth President of One Voice and the new board members preparing to plan and implement exciting agenda items for 2025. I still remember our early conversations and meetings that led to the formation of One Voice—a time filled with brainstorming, excitement, and high expectations.

Our vision, which remains as strong as ever, was to create a community that highlights the presence of members of the African diaspora, promotes opportunities for our growth, and enriches Iowa communities through our talents and culture.

Our community has achieved several significant milestones that fill me with immense pride:

1. I’m deeply grateful for our community’s support in our efforts to support non-profits led by fellow Africans. Your talents and resources have made a significant difference, and I couldn’t be prouder.
2. Organizing youth summits that open new opportunities and possibilities for our young people.
3. Planning meetups that bring us together, fostering new connections and the exchange of ideas.
4. Curating business fairs that introduce innovative ideas and enterprises to new consumers.
5. Building a vibrant One Voice community group that connects us with jobs, businesses, community events, comedy, new arrivals, advice, and more.

The name One Voice was not chosen to suggest that we are the sole Voice of the African community. Instead, it symbolizes our mission to unite the African diaspora around common agenda items that transcend individual regions and communities. I’m incredibly proud of our progress on this journey and excited because each group of One Voice leaders and members will contribute uniquely.

I’ll end with this African proverb that perfectly captures our community’s spirit:

“If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.“

Dear OV Family,

Wishing you plenty of love, joy, abundance, growth & prosperity in all the areas that truly matter to you and your families.

We are at the verge of change as we work through economic inflation, new year, new resolutions, new administration, along with all the uncertainties that come along with them.

As a community, we struggle together, BUT as a collective, we rise together. Our hope is that you entrust One Voice DSM, to be the glue that binds our diverse ethnic groups into a powerful collective that unites, promotes & connects in ways that elevate our progress, influence and contribution in the communities in which we live.

On behalf of the One Voice DSM leadership team, I wish you all compliments of the season, and a very Happy and prosperous New Year!

Hello One Voice DSM members,

I hope this message finds you well.

We had a successful 2024 as a group, achieving all the goals and events we set at the beginning of the year. Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, members, and board. We could not have done it without you.

This year, we also added new members to the board. Please join me in welcoming Ngozi Igbokwe, Alex Karumuna and Rohey Sallah to the board! Thank you for volunteering your time and commitment to One Voice DSM.

Lastly, I want to announce the end of my two-year term as president. It was a pleasure serving in this role. November elections were held, and I am excited to welcome our new president and vice president for 2025… drum roll… Jack Chimbetete (Incoming President) and Trudy Carlson (Incoming Vice President)! Jack and Trudy have been great contributors to the board, and I am confident they will excel in their new roles, continuing to expand One Voice DSM and guiding it by our mission statement: to unite the African diaspora in Iowa, embrace and promote our culture and heritage, and cultivate opportunities for the present and the future of Iowa and beyond.

Thank you for your continued support.

Vision Statement for One Voice DSM: Empowering the African Diaspora for Sustainable Success

As the new president of One Voice DSM, I am thrilled to lead an organization deeply committed to the success of the African Diaspora in Iowa. One Voice DSM envisions a thriving ecosystem where African businesses, families, and youth find opportunities for sustainable growth and development. Through impactful programs and strategic partnerships, we are setting the stage for a transformative 2025.

Our flagship event, the African Business Fair, sponsored by Drake University, the Greater Des Moines Partnership, the University of Iowa, DMAAC, and other esteemed partners, exemplifies this vision. Scheduled for February 15th at Drake’s Olmsted Building, the Fair’s theme, “Building Ecosystems,” aims to foster collaboration among community, corporate, and civic sectors, enhancing the sustainability of African businesses. This year’s fair promises to be a cornerstone in creating supportive networks and driving long-term success.

Beyond the Business Fair, One Voice is expanding its influence with a groundbreaking year-long mentorship program in partnership with schools and colleges. This initiative will empower youth of color, immigrants, and African students by connecting them with accomplished role models across various industries. The mentorship program will be publicly launched soon, marking another milestone in nurturing future leaders.

One Voice’s commitment extends globally through our annual welcome and engagement with the Mandela Washington Fellows at Drake University. This event not only introduces the Fellows to local investors and partners but also fosters enduring connections that support their ventures when they return to Africa. With well-coordinated monthly meetups and networking opportunities, One Voice will ensure continuous growth, collaboration, and community engagement throughout the year.

In the summer, One Voice will proudly support the organization of the Celebrate Africa Event in collaboration with local African organizations. This vibrant gathering is designed to celebrate African culture, values, history, and traditions while inviting all Iowans to participate and experience the richness of Africa from diverse perspectives. This event will serve as a bridge between cultures, promoting unity, understanding, and appreciation of Africa’s multifaceted heritage.

The culmination of our efforts will be celebrated at the African Youth Summit, an educational gathering that brings together students and youth who have participated in our programs throughout the year. Additionally, 2025 will mark the launch of the inaugural One Voice Charity Gala and Awards Ceremony, an event inviting corporate sponsors and donors to champion our mission. Funds raised will provide critical support for vulnerable African families, refugees, and organizations striving to establish themselves in Iowa.

Our vision for One Voice DSM is rooted in empowerment, collaboration, and sustainability. As we embark on this exciting journey, 2025 promises to be a year of immense impact, growth, and unity for the African Diaspora and the broader community we serve. Together, we will continue to build a legacy of success and resilience for generations to come.