By Rayna Weddington and Joseph Warkreh T-Toe
As the October winds blow our way, we transition into what has become FunTimes Magazine’s annual tradition in Philadelphia – the Gala and Award Ceremony. We proudly open this year’s event with red carpet pomp and pageantry for our distinguished guests and patrons who graciously support our commitment to our internship program.
Like prior years, we select individuals from the Diaspora community who have exemplified themselves by empowering others economically, socially and educationally. This year’s awardees are all deserving of our gratitude and our congratulations.They include the Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake, recipient of the 2017 FunTimes Magazines Sheroof the Year Award. Dr Marshall-Blake is Vice President of Community Affairs for Independence Blue Cross, and President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation. She is affiliated with over 30 professional and civic organizations, and an ordained minister, and a mentor to a group of young adult women establishing their careers.
The setting for the October 14 event is the Marriot Courtyard on City Line Avenue. And it is there that Andy Wetherill, another awardee, will receive theJeff Brown Award for Community Engagement. He is the extension educator, Small Farms Program, of the Delaware State University Cooperative System, responsible for expanding agribusiness opportunities for immigrants and other minority producers in the Mid-Atlantic States, Africa and the Caribbean. Wetherill engages the community through his outreach programs.
Our third awardee is Dr. EzeifeAzubuikea retired medical practitioner, certified obstetrician and gynecologist, and chairman of FunTimes Magazine Advisory Board of Directors. Dr. Azubuike is being given the 2017 FunTimes Magazine Life Achievement Award. As the founding president of IDU USA, he has worked tirelessly to realize the dream of building the Shaw Institute for Cultural Art, (SICA), in Igbo Ukwu of Anambra State. Dr.Azubuike is known for his philanthropy and engagement with his community
