One of my favourite gospel songs is “It’s In The Room” by Shana Wilson and I will tell you later why it is the name of my column this week. Women Across Borders hosted an Evening of Inspiration, Fashion and Book Signing at the CUNY Hub in Harlem. We have had similar events over the years but this was different.

The evening started with networking while sipping of a glass of wine compliments of Nostrand Wine and Liquors in a classy atmosphere enhanced by the beautiful artwork of Nigerian painter Dobo Afolabi. A powerful prayer by Astrid Labadie set the tone for the meaningful programme. Co-Author Women Across Borders and founder of Alize Media shared part of her journey that made persons emotional. I facilitated the panel discussion with amazing influencers such as Dr Desiree De Florimonte who one of the co-authors and educator, Lorna Welshman Neblette, entrepreneur and former executive of the Thierry Mugler Parfums (now a division of Clairans Fragrance Group). Jo-Ann Jefferson PhD founder of Jefferson’s Foundation and owner Jefferson’s Cafe Montclair NJ for over 30 and J’s Southern Style Cafe NJ. Angelavette Williams-Hawkins is CEO and Founder of Sister 2 Sister of Divine Connections and Wives Empire, LLC. Bibi Ali, founder Culture of Blessings Foundation and author and the lone guy Peter Ivey from Jamaica.

Described as a serial entrepreneur, Peter Ivey is the founder and president of the League of International Chefs Association (TLICA) whose mission is to support and mobilise a global network of food industry professionals to sustain communities by using food and culture to end hunger and poverty. A few days ago Forbes Magazine recognised him for the work he is doing. All of these people I mentioned are playing a major role in their respective areas to make a significant difference and were elated to part of this event. “From the second I walked in this space my pores open and I felt something I never felt before. I am happy to be in this room that is filled with so much wisdom and many testimonies,” Peter Ivey said. Desiree Defloriminte sent this message: “It was an honour to be part of this empowering session. The spirit of the Lord was in the place and I thank you for letting your light shine. ”
Consul General Barbara Atherly was in attendance and expressed how impressed she was with the event and went on to share part of her journey. Her assistant Allisa and bestselling author Claudia Vidal read excerpts from the women across Borders Books.

Bibi Ali’s book “The Power of the Soil” was also available. My new collection was on show and persons were in awe of the new concept I added to the collection. After the fashion demonstration, every woman in the room had the desire to add that piece to their wardrobe.

The synergy in the room was second to none and the testimonies after were endless. Everyone left with something including new business ventures, collaboration on future projects, speaking engagements, mentorship, how to publish your book or the beginning of new friendships.

The temperature rose with the closing prayer of Sanola Shepherd and she sent this message after the event:
“I was fortunate to be in the same room with generals of their craft. It was like sitting in the shadows of the UNGA as the Kingdom initiatives for socioeconomic development… A single storyline connected all the speakers we care about the unfortunate souls within our world and we are the agents to change this story!

I can’t wait see the results of the next forum In September.”

What was “In This Room?”. That song I know by heart because it helped me through some of my darkest days. Grace, compassion, healing, mercy, power, faith, favour, miracles and the presence of God were in the room. Everything we needed at that point was in that room.

“We have many events here of the years but none where the presence of God was so strong” Asrid – who manages the CUNY Hub- said.

It was certainly a humbling feeling after the event when a movie producer who attended offered me my own show here in the USA. I will think about it as I continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.