**Kenan Thompson Honoured at Self Help Africa Gala**
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In a heartfelt tribute to philanthropy and community support, comedian Kenan Thompson received the Empowering Africa Award during Self Help Africa’s 16th Annual New York Change Makers Gala held on 23 October at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. This special occasion not only celebrated Thompson’s contributions but also highlighted the significant efforts towards alleviating hunger and poverty in Africa.
The event saw Thompson, aged 48, presented with the award by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, who was the recipient of the same accolade the previous year. Their interaction was particularly amusing, as Tyson recounted how Thompson has impersonated him on *Saturday Night Live* (SNL) on seven occasions over a span of twelve years. While Tyson had previously expressed discomfort about being parodied, he shared a light-hearted moment with Thompson at the gala, underlining the camaraderie between the two men.
The evening was hosted by actor and former NFL player Taylor Selé, and it successfully raised over $400,000 in support of farmers, entrepreneurs, and women-led businesses across seven African nations. A notable portion of the funds—approximately $145,500—was allocated specifically for community savings groups aimed at empowering women and helping them to establish and grow their businesses.
Courtney Rosenbloom, the U.S. Executive Director of Self Help Africa, praised Thompson’s tireless efforts to unite people, linking his commitment to the organisation’s mission. “Kenan has spent his career bringing people together, and that is exactly what this work is about,” she stated.
Thompson, who is the longest-serving cast member on SNL, took a moment during the gala to reflect on his time with the show. Earlier in May 2026, at the opening night of *Celebrity Autobiography* on Broadway, he reminisced about his debut on SNL back in 2003. He recalled the excitement and nerves that came with his first show, hosted by Jack Black, where the backdrop was a mix of hilarity and teasing.
In a nostalgic recounting of his early days, Thompson mentioned a particular moment when Black, in the midst of a humorous monologue, acknowledged him and fellow cast member Finesse Mitchell as the new guys. Black’s cheeky dismissal of their presence made a lasting impression on Thompson, reinforcing a sense of belonging and initiation within the SNL family.
The gala itself served as a reminder of the urgent issues faced across the African continent, particularly concerning gender inequality and the adverse effects of climate change. Self Help Africa operates with the intent of employing community-led, market-driven approaches to ensure sustainable development in regions grappling with these challenges.
As Thompson continues to embrace his role as a comedian and a community advocate, his participation at the gala exemplified not only a commitment to entertainment but also a dedication to making a tangible difference in global humanitarian efforts.
Tyson, too, has built a reputation for engaging the public in scientific discourse, and their friendly rapport was evident as they celebrated one another’s achievements while elevating important social causes.
Looking ahead, the efforts of self-help organisations like Self Help Africa remain crucial in addressing the far-reaching consequences of economic hardship and environmental issues. The success of the gala demonstrates how the entertainment industry can converge with philanthropic endeavours, creating a powerful platform for change.
In a world increasingly aware of the necessity of global solidarity and support, events like the New York Change Makers Gala illuminate the importance of uplifting communities, particularly those most in need. Thompson’s honour, along with the ongoing work of Self Help Africa, embodies the spirit of collaboration and hope essential for fostering a brighter future for all.