Karaoke Fundraiser Recap!

This past Thursday SAEN hosted its second annual Karaoke Fundraiser, and we're so grateful to everyone who showed up and made our success possible.

We kicked off the night at Dramma, where a few brave souls serenaded guests as they trickled in with the first (of many) rounds of karaoke. Guests ate and drank while they got to know one another, occasionally being swept to the stage or to the camera for an interview, where they had the opportunity to delve into what art has meant for them and how SAEN has made a difference in their life. While there, we also had the pleasure of watching performances by Tatiana’s Dance Center and Pure Onyx Movements, who opened the floor for a belly dancing lesson after their routine. It was a beautiful display of culture and art, and an absolute pleasure to witness the joy it evoked in everyone who participated. 

In between performances (dance, karaoke, and comedy alike), the DJ kept the party going with the help of our MC, Sparkle Stokes, who maintained a riveting energy equilibrium throughout the night. And then, as promised, at 9:00 we shifted upstairs to Palma Verde, where the party continued. We heard from entrepreneurs,

community members, and the most recent graduate of the Readiness Program, Ismail Aziz, about his experiences as a part of SAEN. Our speakers exemplified the very best of the non-profit world and reaffirmed the impact of organizations and events like this one. At Palma Verde we also enjoyed a dance performance from TDC Con Clase, which included SAEN’s very own Sheana Stokes and Emily Marino. Then the karaoke resumed full force, and carried us through the end of the night. 

I’ll be honest; as one of the newest members of SAEN, I had no idea what to expect going into the night, and I was definitely nervous. But the feeling of community was palpable. It was an incredible experience to be in a room full of people who share a common passion and drive, and everyone showed up in a major way. From those who participated in karaoke to our stunning performers, the second annual SAEN Karaoke Fundraiser was a huge success. We cannot thank enough all those who participated, donated, and gave your support. It’s because of you that we’re able to organize events like these and continue to support emerging artists and entrepreneurs. And on a personal level, thank you to everyone who made every new room feel familiar. 

If you weren’t able to join us this time, don’t worry! More events are on the horizon, and SAEN’s one year anniversary is coming up in September so you can be sure we’ll be back on the dance floor soon enough. In the meantime, you can still show your support by donating through any of the channels on our main page, becoming a member, and coming back next week to read about what’s going on in the community and within SAEN itself! 

Photo Credit: RGImages, Kimberly Winter