"I participated as an artist at the Excellence Black Tie Gala in November 2023. This experience was a first for me in my hometown, and I’m beyond grateful for being given the opportunity to showcase my artwork.”

“Being a part of a team that focus is the promote and provide a stable and consistent platform for the black artist in the city is very encouraging. There are not too many if any organizations that would put on such a showcase on this level.”

“Being a vendor with First Fridays was a smooth and fun experience. It gave me an opportunity to attend one of their exciting events, but to also meet some dope people. I also got a chance to share my books with the world.”

“My first time at Excellence I experienced it with my mom who traveled in from NYC. We made sure to have as much information as possible about the event before hand. I really wanted to see the fashion show and see the poetry. My expectations were exceeded, the food, the artist, the network of connections. I’m excited for the events to come”