The NYS Rising Stars Fundraising Gala returns for its 10 year anniversary, joining forces with Nights of Rumba for a powerful evening of music, connection and philanthropy.

A reimagined gala that unites fine dining, inspiring stories, live performances, cultural expression and heartfelt giving, all under one roof and for one purpose: Raise critical funds to empower youth through education, mentorship and community.

🗓 When: Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM

📍 Where: The Swedish Club, 1920 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

About the Collaboration :

This special 10th Edition brings together two communities, New Young Scholars (NYS), a Seattle-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to youth empowerment, and Nights of Rumba, a monthly cultural experience powered by Harnaac, known for electrifying productions blending global rhythms, music from around the world, art and storytelling. Together, we are creating one seamless experience — where purpose meets celebration and every moment fuels opportunities.

What to Expect :

✨ An Elegant Dinner & Awards Ceremony, Celebrating students excellence, community leadership and a decade of NYS impact.

🎶 A Live Music & Cultural Showcase by Nights of Rumba, where we are going to move to the rhythm of sounds that inspired and is inspired from Rumba Music, dance and art in an atmosphere of connection and joy.

🎁 Fundraising Auction & Impactful Giving, An opportunity to Bid on curated items and experiences where every penny will support NYS mentorship, scholarships and youth leadership programs.

💫 Moments of Inspiration, be moved by personal stories, heartfelt performances and spontaneous moments that will leave you inspired long after the night ends.

Who Should Attend :

Students, professionals, artists, mentors, alumni, and community members who believe in the power of education and giving back. Whether you come in a tux, that beautiful dress, that elegant street fit, a gown, or your best cultural attire, you’ll find yourself surrounded by meaningful connections, laughter, movement, and once the music hits, you might even forget how dressed up you are.

Why this event Matters :

Your presence helps New Young Scholars continue its mission of building an equitable future rooted in Ubuntu through mentorship, scholarships and leadership opportunities for Black and African youth, immigrants of all racials and socials of background and refugees. Every smile, every dance and every story told at this gala fuels the programs that help our students rise, lead and shine. ✨

Get Ready for this Unique experience and don’t worry 😉 ! you might walk in wearing a tux or that beautiful dress, seated next to a student, a mentor or a local artist, but once the rhythm hits, you won’t realize how dressed up you are unless the food has you glued to your seat or that the auction makes your pockets a little lighter or heavier from carrying your winnings. Either way, you’ll leave moved, inspired and connected to people who might just change your life.

🌐 www.nyscholars.org

📷 NYS Instagram: @24nyschannel

📷 Nights of Rumba Instagram: @nightsofrumba

📺 YouTube: @nyschannel.23