Former WNBA star and ESPN host Chiney Ogwumike recently brought together a powerful gathering of Africa's rising stars. Her foundation, Queens of the Continent, co-hosted an exclusive private dinner named 'House of Champions' on January 5, 2026.
A Night of Connection and Purpose
The intimate evening was a collaborative effort with Sandra Oboh, the founder of Just Media. The event aimed to foster meaningful connections and discuss future possibilities for the continent. It celebrated champions making significant impacts across various fields, including sports, music, politics, and entertainment.
Since its establishment in 2024, the Queens of the Continent Foundation has been actively creating opportunities. Ogwumike has led basketball camps and leadership conferences that have mentored over 100 young athletes and sports professionals across Africa and the diaspora.
Spotlight on African Stories and Partnerships
Just Media used the platform to highlight its upcoming film projects focused on Nigerian sports icons, such as world-record hurdler Tobi Amusan. This move underscores a shared mission to tell compelling African narratives through sport and media.
The culinary experience for the night was curated by the renowned Tolulope Eros, popularly known as The Billionaire Chef. The dinner was designed to spark conversations and forge partnerships for future philanthropic initiatives.
Influential Voices in Attendance
The guest list reflected the event's mission of uniting leaders. Notable attendees included:
- Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
- Tunde Onakoya, the celebrated chess champion and advocate.
- Entrepreneur Ifeanyi Nwune and financial analyst David Adefeso.
- Comedian and actress Chioma Omeruah.
Speaking at the event, Ogwumike shared her vision. "My foundation, QOC, is all about creating winning opportunities for young girls to pursue their dreams," she stated. She emphasized the power of her dual heritage, being born in the United States with Nigerian roots, and her commitment to using her platform for the cause.
Looking Ahead to a Brighter 2026
Both Queens of the Continent and Just Media have announced plans for more gatherings in 2026. Their goal is to continue bringing together Africa's brightest minds to collaborate, give back to their communities, and drive conversations around impactful projects.
Chiney Ogwumike is a Stanford University graduate, a two-time WNBA All-Star, and an inaugural member of former U.S. President Joe Biden's White House Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement. Her foundation remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of female leaders across Africa through access, confidence-building, and leadership development in sports.
