100% of the evening’s proceeds went directly towards the education of AIDS orphan and former child soldiers in Uganda.

New York City, May 19, 2010 – Artists Shyvonne, Moruf, and Lions, Tigers, and Bear sang and The Violator All-Star DJ, All-En1 DJed at a well attended artist showcase benefiting L.E.A.D Uganda at Lower East Side’s trendy Gallery Bar. The event raised more than $1,000 to benefit children in Uganda affected by AIDS, war, and poverty.

Please credit all photographs: Heidi Gutman Caption: Shyvonne singing.

L.E.A.D Uganda, founded in 2004 by famed photographer Stephen Shames, is an educational leadership initiative for children affected by AIDS, war, and poverty. L.E.A.D Uganda locates the brightest children living on the edges of society—AIDS orphans, former child soldiers, child laborers. L.E.A.D Uganda enrolls them in the best schools, helps them climb to the top of their class, and propels them to university. The idea is to transform the children into leaders. Instead of remaining victims, they will be able to lead Africa into the 21st Century.

Caption: Moruf singing.

Third City, New York organized the benefit for L.E.A.D. Uganda to build awareness empower young professionals to support philanthropic initiatives.

Founder Stephen Shames explained, “Support from young professionals makes it possible for L.E.A.D Uganda’s children to attend the best schools, where they earn high marks and gain self-esteem. Our scholars experience the healing and transforming powers of education. They will become leaders in the country they love. They will help Africa and the world”.

CAPTION: TOP: Andrea Smith and Stephen Shames, founder of L.E.A.D Uganda, talk with former U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, Jimmy Kolker.   BOTTOM: Audience at Benefit

AND  WAY BELOW

….THE ORGANIZERS OF THE EVENT.

THANK YOU THIRD CITY……..

Tiffany, Byron, & Naja.  and MOM: Valerie