Situated on an East Harlem street corner overlooking Central Park, the Center has welcomed billionaires Bill Gates and Mo Ibrahim talking about the future of African business as well as the actress Lupita Nyong’o reading from her children’s book on colorism.
Hank Willis Thomas’s Afro Pick installation was situated on its plaza.
The Center has hosted African presidents and prizewinning authors — and a sweaty crowd breaking into a dance party.
“There are places where your behavior has to be precious,” said Iweala, speaking about his vision.
But that would require significant new fund-raising and a bump in staffing, which now stands at 11 full-time positions and four part-time.