2026 YEMBA Gala
Empowering Youth Today for a Better Tomorrow!
Thursday, November 5, 2026 | Dinner at 7:00 PM
YEMBA invites you to our 2026 Gala! Join us for an evening of celebration, connection, and community in support of YEMBA’s youth!
The evening will celebrate the individuals and community partners who help make YEMBA’s work possible while raising critical support for the young people we serve. There will be cocktails, dinner, a silent auction, and more, with 100% of gala proceeds benefiting YEMBA’s youth initiatives.
Celebrating our Community
Join us as we honor our 2026 award recipients!
Legacy Award — Michael Padavic
Michael Padavic is being honored for his longstanding dedication and commitment to YEMBA and its mission. As a former YEMBA Board Member and continued supporter of the organization, Michael remains actively involved in helping YEMBA grow and create meaningful opportunities for young people and the broader community.
Distinguished Alumni Award — Hasani Cannon
A former YEMBA student, Hasani Cannon continues to give back to the community through his creativity, talent, and commitment to YEMBA’s mission. Hasani designed the artwork featured on all three YEMBA x Dark Matter Coffee bags, creating a lasting representation of the partnership while continuing to find meaningful ways to support and uplift his community.
Community Partner Award — Byline Bank
Byline Bank has been a valued partner in helping YEMBA provide students with practical financial knowledge and skills. Through financial literacy workshops during MEP and SEP, Byline Bank has given students important insight into financial responsibility and topics they may not always have the opportunity to learn in a traditional classroom.
Meet Our MC
Regina Waldroup — NBC Chicago Journalist & Reporter
We’re excited to welcome Regina Waldroup of NBC Chicago as the Master of Ceremonies for the 2026 YEMBA Gala! A Chicago journalist and storyteller, Regina brings a passion for highlighting the people, organizations, and stories making a difference throughout our community. We’re thrilled to have her help us celebrate YEMBA’s youth, our honorees, and the community of supporters who make our work possible.
Partner with Purpose
Your support of the YEMBA Gala helps us continue providing young people with mentorship, leadership development, educational opportunities, and experiences that empower them to succeed. 100% of gala proceeds go toward YEMBA’s youth initiatives. YEMBA is a recognized 501(c)(3) organization, and contributions are deductible for federal tax purposes.
Become a Gala Sponsor!
Show your commitment to YEMBA’s youth by becoming a 2026 Gala Sponsor.
GOLD SPONSOR — $5,000
Table for 10 guests with preferred seating
Acknowledgement during the gala program
Recognition on YEMBA’s website, social media, and newsletter
Large logo placement on program and promotional materials
SILVER SPONSOR — $2,500
Table for 10 guests
Recognition on YEMBA’s website, social media, and newsletter
Medium logo placement on program and promotional materials
BRONZE SPONSOR — $1,000
Table for 10 guests
Recognition on YEMBA’s website and social media
Small logo placement on program and promotional materials
Thank you to our 2026 YEMBA Gala sponsors!
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Hoyne Savings Bank
Bronze Sponsors
Julie Moller
Forest Park Bank
Join us as a Guest!
Want to attend without sponsoring? Individual tickets are $100 per guest.
Come celebrate YEMBA’s youth, honor our 2026 award recipients, connect with fellow community members, and help us continue empowering youth today for a better tomorrow!
For questions about sponsorship opportunities or ticket purchases, please contact:
yemba@yemba-inc.org
708-719-6700
Questions?