ATLANTA - GeorgiaChron -- Joan Curran Darkortey, trailblazing business leader, global humanitarian, and CEO of Liberia Economic Development Initiative (LEDI), recently sat down with co-hosts Savannah Louie and Ava Braatz on Atlanta News First's ATL Live to spotlight the organization's relentless mission "to reduce poverty and change lives." Building on the momentum of this high-profile broadcast segment, LEDI officially announced its premier philanthropic event of the year: 11th Annual LEDI International Life Changers Awards & Fundraising Gala.

Scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, this year's gala carries the inspiring theme "We Are The Light." The landmark evening will bring together community leaders, philanthropists, and global changemakers to celebrate extraordinary honorees who embody servant leadership, while raising vital funds to expand educational, economic, and community development programs for children and families in Liberia, US and beyond.

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During her live conversation with Louie and Braatz on ATL Live, Darkortey engaged in a compelling discussion about the heart behind LEDI's work and issued an urgent call to action for community participation and partnership.  "Our journey combines passion and compassion with purpose," said Darkortey. "Through the LEDI International Life Changers Awards, we celebrate those who illuminate possibilities and spark hope across generations."

2026 Distinguished Honorees

This year's International Life Changers Award recipients represent transformative leadership across civic engagement, healthcare, global media, and youth empowerment:

• Charletta Wilson Jacks: International President & CEO, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
• Donna W. Hyland: Former President & CEO, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
• Gerald "Gee-Bee" Barclay: Award-Winning Director, Filmmaker & Documentarian
• Sean "The Science Kid" Atitsogbe: 12-Year-Old STEM Educator, Prodigy & Global Communicator (Youngest recipient in LEDI history)

EVENT DETAILS & REGISTRATION

• Event: 11th Annual LEDI International Life Changers Awards & Fundraising Gala
• Date, Time & Location: Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026 | 5:30 PM | Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, Atlanta, GA
• Theme & Attire: We Are The Light  | Formal / Black Tie or African Attire
• Tickets, Sponsorships & Info: www.ledifundraiser.org
• Notice: Due to high demand, ticket and sponsorship deadlines have been extended.

Proceeds support LEDI's U.S. and Liberia projects, including Liberia's first modern public library and tech center, serving over 200,000 people annually.

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Watch the Broadcast: Atlanta News First Feature (https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2026/10/15/international-life-changers-awards-fundraising-gala/)

About LEDI:
Liberia Economic Development Initiative (LEDI) is a U.S.-based, international, 501 c3 non-profit with a mission to reduce poverty and change lives. For more information about LEDI and how to get involved, please visit www.ledinow.org.