The Nia Gala's Tribute to Community Unity

On Sunday, October 19, the Woman on Fire Gala will honor six exceptional local storytellers. This semiformal gathering, orchestrated by Sisters of Nia, an initiative rooted in African culture, aims to uplift middle school girls. The program is designed to bolster self-esteem, promote self-motivation, encourage healthy peer relationships, instill social responsibility, and provide health education. Proceeds will directly fund the mission of Sisters of Nia.The 2025 Woman on Fire Gala will recognize distinguished individuals, referred to as "flame carriers." Among them are Genoa Barrow, Senior Staff Writer at OBSERVER; seasoned “Good Day Sacramento” anchor Courtney Dempsey; Pleshette Robertson, founder of Sac Cultural Hub; filmmaker Alana I. Smith; KDEE 97.5 radio host Wanda Smith; and Tanisha Taylor, Executive Director of the California Transportation Commission.Synthia Smith, the founder, shared, “The Gala highlights the invaluable contributions of trailblazing Black women in Sacramento," encapsulating the event’s essence of empowerment. The gala, running from 3-7 p.m. at the Dante Event Center, features a silent auction, live entertainment, cocktail hour, dinner, and an awards ceremony. Tickets are available on Eventbrite, with more information located at sistersofnia.org.