TRACEY NEALE, MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES
Nine-time Emmy winner Tracey Neale spent the past 20+ years in television news as an anchor on 9NEWS NOW and FOX 5 News in Washington. She received the World Health Organizations Pan-American Award for Excellence in International Reporting, and was recognized by the Clinton Administration. She took a leave of absence from work to journey to Ethiopia and adopt twin one-year-olds. 
In addition to the twins, Tracey's primary focus has become launching her new Pediatric AIDS and Orphans Foundation called Veronica's Story—a 501 (c)(3) organization, named after a little girl she met and came to love in South Africa. We are excited to welcome Tracey as our Mistress of Ceremonies for the African Diaspora Inaugural Ball.
LES NUBIANS
Grammy nominated international recording artists Les Nubians have intrigued audiences for almost a decade with their inventive and glamorous Afropean style. Recognized for their colorful auras, Les Nubians' vogue is a fusion of Funkin' Fashion and Modern Amazon. Their distinctive sound embodies the timeless vibrations of Miriam Makeba, Ella Fitzgerald, Doudou N'diaye Rose, Fela Kuti, Edith Piaf, The Fugees, and Soul II Soul.
Their hit single 'Makeda' propelled their 1999 U.S. debut album to the top of the charts making Princesses Nubiennes the most successful French-language album in decades! With two Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards nominations, Les Nubians were honored with the award for Best New Artist, Group or Duo in 1999. These dynamic entrepreneurs have also been nominated for two NAACP Image Awards.
Les Nubians continue their journey, igniting the stage with their vibrant presence… AND at last will appease our restless ears with the release of their third album in the first quarter of 2009 and a live performance with full band at The African Diaspora Inaugural Ball!
ANGELIQUE KIDJO—Special Guest
Angélique Kidjo is a Grammy Award-winning Beninese singer-songwriter, noted for her diverse musical influences, soulful vocals and creative music videos. Her career has spanned many decades and has garnered her a Grammy for Best Contemporary World Music album and a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding World Music album for her album, Djin Djin. She has collaborated with a diverse group of artists including: Alicia Keys, Branford Marsalis, Kelly Price, Cassandra Wilson, Ziggy Marley and Carlos Santana to name a few. Kidjo is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has worked extensively in philanthropic endeavors around the world. She founded The Batonga Foundation which gives girls a secondary school and higher education so they can take the lead in changing Africa. A true world citizen and role model, Ms. Kidjo has earned her place in history as one of the most influential icons in world music.
BéLO
BélO, international Haitian singer-songwriter, captured the Radio France International Award in 2006. He toured 11 different African nations with his debut album "LAKOU TRANKIL." and recently released his sophomore album, "REFERENCE." The new album has solidified his status as a socially conscious songwriter with a sophisticated sound.
The recording delivers a sublime mixture of Jazz, Worldbeat, Rock, Zouk, Reggae and Afro-Haitian traditional rhythms. BélO continues to thrill audiences across the globe, bringing his music and message of peace to the world.
BATALA
LESOLES DANCE PROJECT
Lesole’s Dance Project (LDP) was founded by Lesole Z. Maine in 2003. The company of six dancers was the recipient of The Washington Post’s Bringing the Arts to Our Community grant. The company creates and performs works that highlight the unique qualities of modern and Afro-Fusion style of dance. LDP provides educational programs of the movement and history of popular South African dances such as Gumboots, Indlamu and Panstula. In 2007 LDP was nominated for the Emerging Performer/Group at the Metro DC Dance Awards. In addition to public performances, LDP prides itself in teaching basic dance classes, master or advanced dance classes, and workshops for the public.
MORE ARTISTS TO COME! CHECK BACK FOR REGULAR UPDATES
Based in Washington, D.C., Batala’s mission is to empower women of all ages and backgrounds to express their voice and strength through the power of drumming. With nearly 50 members representing America’s diverse cultures, ethnicities and ages, Batala’s infectious rhythms, colors, choreography and energy deliver an unforgettable experience.