🚨 The countdown is on! Join us THIS WEEKEND in Columbus, Ohio! Visit our event website for full details: https://www.lejabulela.org/lb33-columbus-conference

Our Story: The Heartbeat of Community, Culture & Hope For over 30 years, Leja Bulela has been a home for hope, a place where compassion and community converge to uplift lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo and across the diaspora. Now, for the first time in our history, we are bringing that heartbeat to Columbus, Ohio!

The Theme: Honoring Legacy, Inspiring Future Our 33rd Annual Conference & Gala, “The Heart of Africa,” is a bridge between our roots and our future. From June 26–28, 2026, we will gather at the Hyatt Place Columbus/OSU to:

Honor the global influence of Congolese culture.
Celebrate the impact of our community-led projects.
Inspire the next generation of leaders and allies.

🏆 EXCITING HIGHLIGHT: Saturday Night Gala, Game Watch & Silent Auction! Dress to impress and bring your team spirit! This year’s Saturday night Gala features a high-stakes DR Congo vs. Uzbekistan World Cup Game Watch. Cheer on the Leopards while enjoying a lively cocktail hour, a delicious traditional Congolese buffet, and our LIVE Silent Auction.

You can start bidding right now on incredible prizes, including luxury travel packages to South Beach and Mykonos, signed sports memorabilia from legends like Dikembe Mutombo and Muhammad Ali, and incredible multi-layered 3D stadium art for your favorite Ohio football teams

More Than a Gathering, A Mission in Motion This weekend isn’t just about reflection and celebration; it’s about action. Your registration, auction bids, and donations directly fuel grassroots initiatives that change lives, including:

🏥 Healthcare: Maintaining the Kalala Muzeu Health Center.
📚 Education: Funding schools and local educational programs.
🤝 Support: Providing critical resources for refugee and diaspora communities.

Join Us in the Discovery City Whether you are joining us for the vibrant Friday Culture Night, the Saturday Development Conference, Gala & Game Watch, or the Sunday Community Reflection, you are playing a vital role in our story.

Last-minute registrations are still open! Register today. Stand with hope. Help us ensure that the heartbeat of Africa continues to grow stronger.

Leja Bulela's 33rd Annual Conference & Gala

The Heart of Africa: Honoring Congo’s Legacy. Celebrating Our Impact. Inspiring Care for Our Future.