As part of a benefit for the Humanity for Africa Foundation, Salil Wilson, Executive Director of the World Harmony Run, had the honor of receiving an award from the Newark, NJ Municipal Council commending World Harmony Run spokeperson Carl Lewis for his "outstanding Achievement and Community service in supporting the World Harmony Run and Forum Development efforts in rural areas."

Carl was unable to be present at the function so he very kindly gave the World Harmony Run the honor of receiving the award.

Founded by Okems Innocent Okemezie, the Humanity ofr Africa Foundation, organized the event. The Foundation serves as a vehicle for community development and cultural integration and adds value both to African and American communities by contributing to the educational, health and human service, cultural and civic needs of the communities.

Keynote speaker Jimmy Sherlock, founder of Reborn International, offered an inspiring and energising insight into his formative year and experiences as well as graciously recognizing all those present for the remarkable work they are doing in their respective fields.

Patrizsha, recording artist and performer, who also happens to be married to Jimmy Sherlock, entertained the gathering with a powerful and energized performance.

The first honoree was Jimmy Sherlock receiving recognition from representatives of both Newark Mayor Cory Booker and Congressman Donald Payne.

Jimmy then offered an award to Steve Brown, the CEO of Steve Brown and Associates, who while running a successful automobile insurance agency also finds time to serve the New Jersey community in numerous ways.

Mark Roberts (second from right), CEO of the Jewish Renaissance Medical Center, was on hand to be honored on behalf of Dr. Alan Goldsmith who is the founder and driving force behind the Jewish Renaissance Foundation. Dr. Goldsmith who was named a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador in 2007, was recognized for his work in improving health-care access for the poor.

A young and inspiring fellow Pastor Isaac Friedel shared his work and experiences offering community services in the Jersey Shore.

Phebe Dennis-Fortt, founder of Relief Inc., flew in with her family from the west coast to recieve their award. Phebe remarkable journey began in Liberia where she lost uncle (President at the time), father, mother and sister to politically motived killings. Out of her desire to liberate herself from that earlier Liberian experience, a Relief Inc was born.

Phebe's husband and most passionate supporter is Ronald Fortt also received honors on the day.

World Harmony Run Executive Director, Salil Wilson, stood in for spokesman Carl Lewis to receive Mr. Lewis' award.

During his athletic career, Carl Lewis was a member of five Olympic teams, attended four Olympic games and won 10 Olympic medals, nine of which were gold, one silver, earning himself international respect and a place in history as one of the truly great athletes of all time.

Since his retirement from active competition in 1997, Carl Lewis has devoted a great deal of his time and energy to charity, founding “The Carl Lewis Foundation,” which serves as an umbrella for the many charities that Lewis supports including the “Best Buddies” organization, The Wendy Marx Foundation (for organ donor awareness), many youth fitness groups as well as the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

He has recently launched a new website; www.fitforever.com. Fit Forever, created by Carl Lewis, is dedicated to empowering youth and adults, and to improving their life conditions through physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.

Sharon Hamilton-Getz (Saranagati) is a spiritual entrepreneur, humanitarian and, leader in the focus of spirituality, and the work of values and business that benefits others. Currently serving as Chairperson of the NGO Committee of Spirituality, Values and Global Concerns-NY Sharon is constantly dedicating her life to the service of others.

In a surprise gesture the representatives from the City of Newark presented Okems Innocent Okemezie, founder the Humanity for Africa Foundation, with much deserved recognition for his organisation's valuable work in bringing the issues challenging much of the population of Africa as well as specifically the organisations support the refurbishment of a school in Nigeria.

After the formal proceedings Adhiratha Keefe invited all those present to hold the World Harmony Run torch together and express their hopes and dreams for a more harmonious and peaceful world.

All those present congregating around the torch.

Singer Darlingboy entertained the crowd with a heartfelt rendition of a Bob Marley song.

The World Harmony Run proudly supports the International Year of Youth (IYY) and the International Year of Forests (IYF) proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly.

See also recent Youtube video which illustrates IYY slogan "Our Year Our Voice"  International Year of Youth - Zambia World Harmony

UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage (WH) Centre supports IY of Forests.  ... Convention for conservation of forest biodiversity. (more)

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