On October 5th, the San Francisco Design Center Galleria hosted the 2024 Afropolitan Ball for the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD), co-chaired by Shannon Nash and Minjon LeNoir Hall. The event had a diverse guest list with attendees who specialized in philanthropy, civic leadership, and various fields of art. Among the distinguished attendees was San Francisco mayor, London Breed, as well as artists like Rashaad Newsome, Ramekon O'Arwisters, and Lava Thomas. Collectors included Dee Kerrison and V. Joy Simmons.

October 1st marked the beginning of the first Nexus: SF/Bay Area Black Art Week. The Afropolitan ball was a glorious extension of the new waves that MoAD is making in the art scene, placing emphasis on strides made thus far. Monetta White, Executive Director & CEO of MoAD spoke alongside Mayor Breed that night to commemorate these efforts and the contagious enthusiasm that lit up the room. The inaugural week of events set the table for a fruitful 2025, which will mark the museum’s 20th anniversary. 

During the first half of the night, partygoers danced to live music by Kev Choice Ensemble, twirling in fonts of jazz, funk, and disco. The dancefloor became a mosaic of gliding artists, entertainers, and fashion-forward folk. After a night of vigilant recognition of well-deserving creatives, the guests were ready to get lost in the musical energy of The Party featuring a radiant experience brought forth by DJ LadyRyan, whose name is well respected in the Bay Area for her talents. DJ LadyRyan was even named “Best of the Bay” in 2016 by East Bay Express and “Best DJ in the Bay Area” in 2023 by Bay Area Reporter. 

The night was one for the books, with memorable experiences of diversity and culture imbued in the smiles that overtook faces of artists, philanthropists, politicians, and otherwise valuable partygoers. 

Photography by Chloe Jackman Photography.