Bridge the Gap Communal Meal: Stories of Empowerment

An event to ignite empowerment in Wisconsin

Bridge the Gap Communal Meal: Stories of Empowerment is a community empowerment event in Wisconsin designed to uplift the human spirit through shared stories, cultural expression, and the universal joy of coming together. This kickoff gathering for Flavors of Africa + Diaspora Wisconsin invites community members to connect, reflect, and celebrate the experiences that shape who we are.

This year, we deepen our commitment to community connection with a shared meal designed to spark meaningful dialogue. When we sit down to eat together, conversation flows – and with it, understanding, unity, and the feeling of being part of something bigger.

We are celebrating stories of empowerment: moments of resilience, creativity, cultural pride, and the human journey that connects us all. No matter our backgrounds, we each carry experiences that shape who we are. Whether we’ve overcome challenges or are creating new paths that uplift others, sharing our stories reminds us of our strength and our shared humanity.

The afternoon will include:

COMMUNAL MEAL

Traditional cultural dishes from Antigua Latin Cuisine, Lola’s Empanadas & Frankie’s

CULTURAL MUSIC & PERFORMANCES

Music from T’challa

Performances from Panadanza Dance Company and Odenigbo Group  

INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKERS

Moderated by Yollande Tchouapi & Yomarie Castellano

• Citlali Mendieta-Ramos, Owner, Antigua Restaurant Group

• Kristyn O’Laughlin Eitel, Owner, Toro Toro Toro

• Martha Bianchini, Owner, Cubanitas

• Griselda Aldrete, Founder, Aldrete Law & Consulting

• Dr. Oby Nwabuzor, Owner, Envision Growth

• Dr. Sheila Lambi-Oben, Reclaim Her

Expect an atmosphere filled with warmth, positive energy, and the kind of conversation that lingers long after the day ends.

PLUS! SILENT AUCTION To help boost our efforts in raising funds for local organizations, our silent auction will open from January 18, 2026 and close at the conclusion of the Gala + Chef Showcase on February 22, 2026. Together we can create meaningful impact in our community.

Proceeds from this  community empowerment event Wisconsin residents can support benefit organizations that uplift and empower our community: The Cathedral Center, FoodRight and Walker’s Point Center for the Arts