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Ndajee 2026:
From Education to Climate Action —
Girls Leading Change
Date: Monday, May 11, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Location: The Dalcy Event Hall at Aba (we're back!)
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Ndajee (en-DAH-jee), meaning “get together” in Wolof, is Women’s Global Education Project’s annual benefit. More than a fundraiser, Ndajee is a joyful gathering of supporters, partners, and advocates who believe in the transformative power of girls’ education.
This year, we highlight the powerful connection between girls’ education and climate action — and the critical role girls play in shaping sustainable, community-driven solutions.
Across Kenya and Senegal, girls supported by WGEP are designing and leading climate-smart initiatives, mobilizing peers, families, and entire communities to address environmental challenges with creativity, resilience, and hope.
Join us for an inspiring evening of connection, storytelling, celebration, and purpose — all in support of girls' leadership in protecting our planet!
Why This Year Matters
The connection between climate change and girls’ education is deeply interconnected. While education promotes environmental stewardship, girls in rural communities are also among those most affected by climate change.
Research shows that each additional year of schooling strengthens a country’s resilience to climate disasters. Education expands opportunity, strengthens livelihoods, delays early marriage and childbearing, and encourages sustainable consumption and community-led climate action.
Through WGEP’s mentoring and leadership programs, girls gain the skills and confidence to graduate, pursue higher education, and become fearless change agents who lead climate advocacy and solutions in their communities.
By investing in girls’ education, we are investing in a greener future for all.
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What to Expect
Guests will enjoy an inspiring evening featuring:
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Uplifting stories showcasing WGEP’s impact in Kenya and Senegal
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Delicious Mediterranean food and drinks catered by The Dalcy at Aba
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Live music, a DJ, and dancing to celebrate our collective impact
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A powerful keynote address from Craig Davidson of the Rick Steves Climate Smart Initiative
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A cocktail reception, dinner, and dancing
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A paddle raise in support of girls' education
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A silent auction featuring travel, experiences, and artisan items from Africa
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A celebration of global community and shared purpose
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Honoring our 2026 Impact Awardee
Ndajee is more than a celebration — it is a shared commitment to turning education into action.
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Our 2026 Goal — $350,000
Through Ndajee 2026, we aim to raise $350,000 to sustain and expand WGEP’s education, mentoring, leadership, and climate-focused programming — ensuring girls continue to learn, lead, and drive change in the communities they call home.
Every $150 ticket and every sponsorship investment fuels scholarships, literacy programs, leadership training, and climate-smart initiatives.
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Reserve Your Seat
Individual tickets are $150.
Your ticket includes:
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Cocktail reception
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Dinner at The Dalcy
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Program featuring scholar stories and a keynote address
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Access to the silent auction and paddle raise
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Music, dancing, and celebration
When you purchase a ticket, you are doing more than attending an event — you are investing in girls’ education, leadership development, and climate action in Kenya and Senegal.
Every ticket purchased helps sustain scholarships, literacy programs, mentoring, and climate-smart initiatives that empower girls to lead change in their communities.
Seats are limited.
Interested in attending with friends or colleagues? Contact Leslie Alvarez at leslie@womensglobal.org about group seating or sponsorship opportunities.
Become a Sponsor
By sponsoring Ndajee 2026, you are investing in education as a pathway to climate leadership and long-term impact.
$25,000 Title Sponsor
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20 in-person event tickets
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Center spread ad in the program book
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Reserved tables at the event
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Recognition at the event, in the program book, and on the website
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Opportunity to distribute promotional materials
$10,000 PhD Sponsor
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12 in-person event tickets
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Center spread ad in the program book
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Recognition at the event, in the program book, and on the website
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Opportunity to distribute promotional materials
$7,500 Master’s Sponsor
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10 in-person event tickets
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Full-page program ad
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Recognition at the event, in the program book, and on the website
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Opportunity to distribute promotional materials
$5,000 University Sponsor
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8 in-person event tickets
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Full-page program ad
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Recognition at the event, in the program book, and on the website
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Opportunity to distribute promotional materials
$2,500 High School Sponsor
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6 in-person event tickets
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Half-page program ad
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Recognition at the event, in the program book, and on the website
$1,000 Middle School Sponsor
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4 in-person event tickets
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Half-page program ad
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Recognition at the event, in the program book, and on the website
$500 Elementary School Sponsor
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2 in-person event tickets
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Logo featured in the program book
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Recognition at the event and on the website
Please confirm your sponsorship by April 27, 2026.
Sponsorships may be pledged now, with flexible payment through 2026.
For sponsorship inquiries, please get in touch with Leslie Alvarez at leslie@womensglobal.org.
Can't Attend?
You can still be part of Ndajee’s impact.
Your donation supports scholarships, literacy programming, leadership development, and climate-smart initiatives that empower girls to strengthen their communities and protect the world around them.
Together, education becomes climate action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ndajee?
Ndajee (en-DAH-jee), meaning “get together” in Wolof, is Women’s Global Education Project’s annual benefit.
When and where is Ndajee 2026?
Ndajee 2026 will take place on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 6:00–9:00 PM at The Dalcy at Aba, Third Floor, 302 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607.
What is the theme of Ndajee 2026?
The theme of Ndajee 2026 is From Education to Climate Action — Girls Leading Change. This year’s event highlights the powerful connection between girls’ education and climate resilience, and the critical role girls play in leading community-driven climate solutions in Kenya and Senegal.
How much does a ticket cost, and what does it include?
Individual tickets are $150 and include dinner, drinks, program programming, access to the silent auction and paddle raise, and an evening of live entertainment, DJ, dancing, and celebration.
Is my ticket tax-deductible?
Yes. $75 of each $150 ticket is tax-deductible.
Will tickets be sold at the door?
Tickets will not be sold at the door. We encourage guests to purchase tickets in advance, as space is limited and the event may sell out.
What if I have a dietary restriction?
WGEP is happy to accommodate dietary needs. Please indicate any dietary restrictions at the time of purchase, or contact us in advance so we can coordinate with the venue to ensure an enjoyable experience for all guests.
Will alcohol be served?
Yes. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available during the event.
Is Ndajee a 21+ event?
No. Ndajee 2026 is open to guests of all ages. Alcoholic beverages will be available at the event and served only to guests who are 21 and over.
What is the dress code?
Business or cocktail attire is recommended.
Is there a coat check?
Yes. A coat check will be available for guests.
Parking & Public Transit
Parking: Valet parking is available at the guest’s expense at Aba’s entrance on Green Street. Limited street parking and nearby public garages are also available.
Public Transit: Easily accessible via the Morgan Street Green and Pink Line CTA stop, just a short walk away.
Can I attend Ndajee virtually?
Ndajee 2026 is an in-person event. At this time, we do not plan to offer a virtual attendance option. However, supporters who are unable to attend are encouraged to make a donation to support WGEP’s mission.
How can my company or organization sponsor Ndajee?
Sponsorship opportunities range from $500 to $25,000 and include event tickets, recognition in the program book, website visibility, and alignment with global education, gender equity, and climate action.
To learn more, visit the Become a Sponsor section or contact us directly.
Can I still support WGEP if I can’t attend?
Absolutely! If you’re unable to attend, you can still make a meaningful impact by making a donation in support of WGEP’s education, leadership, and climate-focused programming in Kenya and Senegal.
Who should I contact with questions about Ndajee?
For questions about Ndajee, including tickets, sponsorships, or event logistics, please contact Leslie Alvarez at leslie@womensglobal.org.
Is Women’s Global Education Project a nonprofit organization?
Yes. Women’s Global Education Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID: 32-0082340.