In the bustling heart of Houston, Texas, leaders from a multitude of industries came together to illuminate an important cause. The AAMA Illumine Gala committee put together an illuminating event that unveiled the transformative work transpiring within the AAMA Work and Learn Center. This gathering not only celebrated the achievements of students but also cast a radiant glow on the power of community collaboration.
At the event, the spotlight was on the Social Enterprise group’s students, who shared their journeys and artistic creations. Their compelling narratives shed light on the tangible impact of the program. D’Jomme Adia, the Work and Learn Center Manager, delivered a wide view of the program’s essence, underscoring its potential to shape lives.

Distinguished community leaders, including Dr. Armando X. Orduña, Jai Daggett, Alejandro Campos-Guerrera, Dr. Martin Perez, Jose Medrano, Felicia Lawrence, Christian Diaz, and many others, lent their presence, further emphasizing the collective dedication to this cause.




The Work and Learn Center, a place for opportunity youth, unfolds through workshops, peer collaboration, and hands-on endeavors. At its core lies the 6-week Design and Digital Literacy program, a robust curriculum encompassing career readiness, web development, digital literacy, and graphic design. This immersive experience kindles invaluable skills and catalyzes connections that guide students toward their forthcoming ventures.
The AAMA Illumine Gala, slated for October 14th, is one of the organization’s premier fundraising affairs. The funding raised at this year’s gala will propel the Work and Learn Center’s undertakings, ensuring its ongoing success.
The gala’s allure lies in its promise of an enchanting evening marked by magic, melody, and meaningful networking. The magic of this event doesn’t merely reside in its ambiance; it emanates from the aspirations of the students it champions and the community it unites.
The constellation of 2023 AAMA Gala Committee luminaries includes Misha McClure, Sineria Ordóñez, Bryce Kennard, Amber Burton, Cathryn Martinez, Alexandra Hernandez, and Crystal Ramon.
As the gala approaches, the radiant spotlight on AAMA’s mission to empower the next generation grows ever brighter. Prospective sponsors eager to participate in this uplifting cause can reach out to Monica Vallejo, AAMA’s Community Outreach Manager, via email at mvallejo@aama.org or by visiting this website (https://www.aama.org/illumine-gala-2023/).

For those wanting to learn more about the Work and Learn Center, visit (https://www.aama.org/aamas-work-learn-center/).