African Leadership Group has always been about connection—through education, advocacy, cultural celebration, and support.
But this year, during the 10th Annual Afrik Impact, connection took on an entirely new form: a collective art project.
The inspiration came from the theme of the celebration, “Motherland: The Lineage & Legacy of Africa’s Children.” Instead of hiring an artist to interpret the theme alone, ALG opened the canvas to everyone: members, families, friends, and even first-time visitors.
Using a paint-by-numbers model, participants each added color to the piece, literally leaving their mark on the work. The result was more than a painting; it was a visual testament to unity in the community.
After the event, the artwork returned to ALG’s office, where resident artist Toluwanimi Obiwole guided finishing touches. Yet even then, more neighbors stopped by to join in.
The final piece, entitled “Motherland,” now stands as the first-ever African Leadership Group community art project. It is a portrait of Africa’s lineage and legacy, as well as collective pride, teamwork, and belonging.
The idea for this project came about in an unexpected way. Seven-year-old Pxyden Gaulden, an active youth member of ALG, heard his father Jason, an ALG member, talking to ALG Founder and Executive Director Papa Dia on the phone.
They were brainstorming ideas for the annual Cultural Celebration, thinking of ways to get everyone engaged. As he sat nearby, listening in while using his own paint set, Pxyden casually chimed into the conversation: “You should do a big painting that everyone can work on together.”
This is where the idea was born, and it turned out to be a fun and fantastic success.
