SIRA 2025: A Night of Elegance, Culture, and Diaspora Excellence

On October 4th, 2025, Chicago’s Moonlight Studios became a beacon of brilliance as guests from across the globe gathered to celebrate the Savvy Initiative Recognition Awards (SIRA) — an evening designed to honor individuals of African heritage who are creating extraordinary global impact.

The night opened with a lively Black Carpet experience, followed by cocktails, networking, and the soulful sounds of highlife music. A dramatic Eyo masquerade performance captured the spirit of cultural pride, while guests were serenaded by the powerful vocals of singer-songwriter JusSoul.

At the heart of the evening was a powerful fireside chat hosted by Jack Chimbetete, CEO of Africa Live Network, under the theme:
“Diaspora Dividend: Turning Global Know-How into Local Opportunity.”

This inspiring conversation featured:

Lara Ezobi, CEO of Serenity Health
Manny Ohonme, CEO of Samaritan’s Feet
Hugh Molotsi, former Intuit executive and tech innovator

Together, they shared insights on bridging global experience with grassroots transformation — a true highlight of the night.

2025 SIRA Awardees

KEN COLLIER — Honourary Award (Baobab)

Founder of Futures Without Fear, Kenn transformed personal tragedy into a healing-centered movement that supports justice-involved youth and grieving families through trauma-informed leadership programs and systemic change.

HUGH MOLOTSI — Lifetime Achievement Award (Kilimanjaro)

Tech innovator and founder of Ujama, Hugh’s 30-year career at Intuit and beyond has helped build billion-dollar platforms and cultivate intrapreneurs globally, while empowering communities through neighborhood collaboration.

LARA EZOBI & AYOWALE ALAO — Outstanding Achievement Award (Giza)

As co-founders of Serenity Health, Lara and Ayowale have grown a $100M+ homecare organization, redefining compassionate, culturally competent care and setting new standards in patient outcomes and community impact.

EMIL EKIYOR — Philanthropic Award (Nile)

From NFL player to purpose-driven changemaker, Emil founded InnoPower to close opportunity gaps for Black entrepreneurs through innovation, business access, and equity in tech and workforce development.

MIKKA MOSBY — Philanthropic Award (Nile)

Through Just Mikk Extensions, Mikka empowers thousands via financial literacy, free youth wig-making classes, and grant-funded training programs that uplift underserved communities with real, sustainable skills.

MANNY OHONME — Philanthropic Award (Nile)

Founder of Samaritan’s Feet, Manny’s global movement has distributed over 9 million pairs of shoes in 109 countries, restoring dignity, health, and hope to children through service, storytelling, and purpose-driven philanthropy.

Spotlight on Savvy Initiative

During the event, guests were given a glimpse into Savvy Initiative’s year of impact, including the launch of new mentorship platforms, diaspora engagement programs, and the formal adoption of Futures Without Fear as a flagship partner — reinforcing Savvy’s mission to empower youth affected by violence through healing, storytelling, and leadership training.

Closing Moments

The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by AGOD Savage, CEO and Founder of SIRA, followed by a delicious three-course dinner and an energetic afterparty celebration filled with music, dance, and connection.

From start to finish, SIRA 2025 was a vibrant tapestry of recognition, culture, and community — a bold reminder that “We See You.”

SIRA 2025: A Night of Elegance, Culture, and Diaspora Excellence