By Tihut Tamrat, Contributing Writer
In celebration of International Women’s Day this year, community members gathered last Sunday, March 8th for PASS THE TORCH, a vibrant event honoring women leaders while uplifting the next generation. Held at the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA) in San Diego, the gathering brought together artists, organizers, and families for an afternoon centered on mentorship, creativity, and community connection.
Co-organized by longtime immigrant community advocate Aster Keleta, founder of MAG Children House Resource Center, and multidisciplinary artist Mereb Khasay and emcee, the event aimed to bridge a growing gap between generations of women by creating a space where mentorship, cultural exchange, and collaboration could flourish.
The celebration opened with a lively dance performance by the East African Student Association(EASA) dance team, whose energetic movements set the tone for the afternoon. Guests also explored a visual art gallery curated by young women from across San Diego, featuring work by Fatuma Fadhil of the Uma Collection; multidisciplinary artist Alessandra Ruiz; visual artist Emilia Mehretab; photographer Kamari Mohamed; moon sluice artist Tessa Elizabeth; multimedia artist Natalia Ventura; photographer and emerging documentarian Tihut Tamrat; and visual artist Sierra Roberson.
Keynote speaker Dr. Jean Carole Murat inspired the crowd and gave them new tools to ease all the stresses that come with being a strong independent and powerful woman such as breathwork and the tap to calm method. Anne Hoiberg and Aster Keleta followed with speeches and awardees passed to the younger generation that are carrying the torch of leadership in their own communities.
The afternoon also included poetry readings by Fiza Shaghel and Faryal Ashraf, along with a harp performance by Marina McClane, creating a reflective and celebratory atmosphere throughout the space.
Attendees enjoyed East African cuisine while connecting with artists, organizers, and community members. Conversations between elders and younger attendees echoed the event’s mission of sharing wisdom across generations.
The celebration closed with a vibrant performance by Ballet Folklórico of San Diego State University, whose colorful traditional dance brought the audience together in a powerful finale honoring culture, creativity, and the enduring strength of women’s leadership.
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