Shared Interest News

NEW YORK, Mar. 12 – Shared Interest will hold its 7th annual awards dinner today recognizing outstanding South African and U.S. leaders for their long-standing work to end apartheid and rally global support to build an equitable economic and democratic new South Africa.

Shared Interest, a leading New York-based international social investment fund, will honor the Honorable Barbara Masekela, ambassador of South Africa to the United States, for her work in building a global community for a new South Africa. The Honorable David N. Dinkins, 106th Mayor of New York City and professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, will be recognized for his visionary leadership for a free South Africa.

A lifelong political activist, Masekela worked with the African National Congress Observer Mission to the United Nations, and at the ANC Headquarters in Zambia. Following Nelson Mandela’s release from prison, she became a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee and later served as South African President Nelson Mandela’s Chief of Staff.

During South Africa’s apartheid years, Mayor Dinkins demonstrated strong political leadership to isolate the apartheid regime and lay the foundation for an equitable new South Africa. The City of New York had imposed a ban restricting city agencies from contracting with firms that do business with the apartheid government. The city’s anti-apartheid law was instrumental in encouraging other U.S. states and cities to institute similar bans.

“We celebrate the extraordinary leadership and achievements of Ambassador Barbara Masekela and Mayor David Dinkins for their contributions in helping to create social and economic transformation in South Africa,” said Donna Katzin, executive director of Shared Interest. “Their efforts have helped to expand economic, social and political opportunities for all South Africans.” Each year, Shared Interest presents awards to individuals and institutions that support initiatives that promote and protect human rights, gender equality, economic justice, and democracy in South Africa.

Acclaimed singer and instrumentalist Hugh Masekela, who is the brother of Barbara Masekela, will perform a tribute to the honorees’ work. Michelle Miller, a correspondent for CBS News, will serve as the emcee.Contact: Shanta Bryant Gyan 646-290-8211; shanta@sbgcommunications.com * www.sharedinterest.org