Assoc. of Haitian Professionals | 8th Annual Fundraising & Awards Gala

The Association of Haitian Professionals is holding its 8th Annual Fundraising and Awards Gala on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Great Hall and Atrium | Silver Spring Civic Building, Silver Spring, MD.

This year's Gala Fundraiser "Haitian Elegance: When Art Meets Fashion" will showcase a stunning Fashion Show and a Live Performance by VAYB .

Join us for an unforgettable night of culture, elegance, and celebration! This year’s Gala will feature a glamorous red-carpet cocktail reception, buffet-style dinner, decadent desserts, a cash bar, fashion show, and dancing — all in support of our ongoing fundraising efforts and vital programs.

We will award 2025 AHP Dessalines & Capois Scholarships to a group of deserving students in the US and in Haiti. We will honor a select 2025 cohort of Remarkable Individuals collectively who, through their work in the Haitian community and despite all odds, remain steadfast to push forward on Progress for Haitians wherever they may reside and our Collective Community Success globally.

Our Mango Lakay MarketPlace is an integral part of this Event with limited available space. There will be a Pop-up Bazaar in the Ellsworth room adjacent to the Great Hall and Atrium for Vendor/Exhibitor(s) to showcase/sell products and/or services.

Fashion Designers/Vendors/Exhibits* -

• Mango Lakay Merchant & AHP Dues-paying Member(s): $155/table
• Non-Member(s): $195/table
• Fashion Show Designer $175

*Ticket is valid for one (1) vendor representative and grants access to Mango Lakay Market Pop-up space with table and chair provided, the gala event, fashion show, entertainment, and cocktail reception with buffet dinner.

Our AHP annual gala is the premier fundraising event bringing awareness to the ongoing and important development of key AHP community-oriented projects, including:

• AHP Scholarship Endowment Fund with Award Management
• AHP Professional Mentoring Program
• Multipurpose Haitian Community Center in the Greater DC Metro Area

Lend your support to our community-empowering endeavors and initiatives by purchasing ticket(s). If you are unable to attend, please consider donating an item for auction or gift raffle, making a simple donation, or being a sponsor.

For general inquiries, or questions pertinent to being a Designer or Vendor at our Event, looking to be an Event Sponsor, or seeking a Student discounted ticket, email: gYWxhICEgY29tbWl0dGVlIHwgaGFpdGlhbnByb2Zlc3Npb25hbHMgISBvcmc=.

Your presence will, certainly, be a great incentive to continue our mission, and your support will make a difference.

The Association of Haitian Professionals is a recognized US 501(c) (6) non-profit corporation (Tax ID 32-0115948). Donations may qualify as business deductions.

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FAQs

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

Because attendees will have the option to choose alcoholic beverages, a valid photo ID is required at the door. We encourage all to have a designated driver for the night or opt for an UBER or a taxi service. This event is open to adults, 21 and up only.

*Please bring your printed tickets with you to the door

Live Performance by VAYB

VAYB is a leading force in modern Haitian compas music, founded in 2017 by the legendary Mickael Guirand following his departure from the iconic group CaRiMi. With his unmistakable voice and powerful stage presence, Guirand launched VAYB to create music that blends deep emotional storytelling with smooth, danceable rhythms. The result is a sound that feels both familiar and boldly new, pushing the boundaries of Haitian music while staying true to its soul.

Since its debut, VAYB has released fan-favorite tracks like “Lanmou Fasil,” “Ou Pa Vle,” “MAYDAY,” and “Je Ferai,” earning the band a loyal global following. From sold-out concerts in Paris to electrifying shows across the U.S. and the Caribbean, VAYB continues to deliver unforgettable live experiences and heartfelt music that speaks to love, resilience, and Haitian pride.

For More Info Visit IG: @vaybnation

Also check out other Arts events in Silver Spring, Fashion Shows in Silver Spring.