By the Numbers
Business & Non-Profit Fair
Attendants surveyed at the 2023 event responded with a 100% success rate to the question: On a scale of 1 to 5 how likely are you to attend next year’s African Business Fair?
Youth Summit
All mentees that attended the 2023 summit were paired with a mentor during the speed networking segments
Annual Charity Gala
All proceeds from the end of year fundraiser goes to support an African family and or families that is\are new to the Des Moines community during the holiday season.
Our Programs
Business & Non-Profit Fair
February
The One Voice Annual Business & Non-Profit Fair is a one-day event that brings together organizations from across Iowa to highlight their products, services, and community initiatives. Designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and newcomers alike, the fair offers a welcoming space to explore Iowa’s diverse business and nonprofit landscape.
Attendees can connect with professionals, discover new organizations, and gain insight into the impactful work happening across the state. By fostering collaboration between local businesses and nonprofits, the fair contributes to a stronger, more inclusive economic ecosystem in Iowa.
Afropolitan Meet Ups
Monthly
Informal gatherings on the last Friday of every other month at a local restaurant, lounge, etc. for professionals to meet and get to know each other.
Summertime Family series (May, July, September), on the last Saturday of the month, is targeted for professionals and their families to socialize.
YALI Mandela Fellowship Reception
June
Annually, One Voice DSM hosts a special event to welcome the inspiring individuals of the Mandela Washington Fellowship’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). The YALI fellows, hailing from different corners of Africa, are excited to share their incredible initiatives with the vibrant Des Moines community. It’s more than just a networking opportunity; it’s a chance for Iowa’s leaders to connect with and learn from the amazing African leaders making a difference back home.
Youth Summit
October
The youth summit is a one-day conference designed to provide youth with a unique chance to explore different industries and areas of expertise, including financial services, healthcare, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. The summit focuses on four key pillars: Career Development, Networking, Mentorship, and holistic growth for young individuals in Iowa. The event also aims to attract corporations interested in recruiting youth for internships, specialized skills training, scholarships, and talent-based programs. This collaborative effort is geared towards fostering community development by keeping young adults engaged and actively contributing to their local community.
Annual Charity Gala & Award Ceremony
December
Each year, One Voice DSM organizes a fundraising event to assist a recently arrived African family in the Des Moines community during the holiday season. Additionally, One Voice DSM recognizes individuals who have exhibited exceptional leadership in various fields such as business, entrepreneurship, social services, civic engagement, community service, non-profit work, and more, making remarkable contributions to their local communities. Come with a hearty appetite, your dancing shoes, and join us for a fantastic year-end celebration!
Community Connections Mentoring Program
Fall & Spring
A community-based mentoring initiative between Grand View University, Hiatt Middle School, and One Voice DSM. Through bimonthly lunchtime sessions, mentors guide students through topics like career development, leadership, technology, entrepreneurship, and more.
