When Botswana, Angola, and Arizona Meet at the Table
Mandela Fellows Dinner | June 28, 2025
A few weekends ago, my kitchen became a portal, a place where stories, laughter, and cultures from thousands of miles away met under the soft glow of candlelight and the hum of jazz. I had the profound honor of hosting two Mandela Washington Fellows, brilliant young women from Botswana and Angola. What began as a simple dinner quickly transformed into something sacred. It reminded me that we are all woven from threads of resilience, love, and hope.
It was an evening filled with culture, comfort, connection, and courage. The kind of soul-stirring community that leaves a lasting imprint. We shared far more than a meal; we shared pieces of our stories, childhood memories, favorite foods, dreams, challenges, and the shared hope that bridges continents.
Laughter echoed (cornbread is now affectionately known as "cake" 😄), the tea was soothing, and the conversation was deeply nourishing. We explored themes of identity, spirituality, therapy, family, and purpose. By the time my guests (sisters from the Motherland) left, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for divine alignment, meaningful exchange, and the truth that we are never truly alone in our journeys.
This was more than hospitality; it was healing. A reminder that though we live in different places, many of us are navigating similar questions, hardships, and awakenings. Together, we've chosen to lean into love, wisdom, growth, and joy, to take chances, to expand, and to keep showing up. Thank you, ASU, for the opportunity to connect with these phenomenal women. I'll carry this evening with me always.
With gratitude,
Stacie J.
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