KINSHASA — In late July 2017, Kat Graham received the honorary title of Princess in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Princess Modupe Ozolua gave Graham, known for her role in The Vampire Diaries, this honor along with a certificate of merit for all of her humanitarianism within the country.
Graham works with the country largely through Princess Modupe’s organization, Empower 54. Empower 54 is a nonprofit organization that provides help to those in need through health, hunger eradication, educational programs and empowerment programs.
Before her work with the group, Graham spent several years with the U.N. Refugee Agency in the Middle East and Central America. Now, as an ambassador for Empower 54, she works toward bringing more awareness to the organization as well as to the millions of African people suffering under terrorist regime.
In March of this year, Graham started a campaign to raise funds for her efforts. The actress created two shirts, one saying “Choose Love” and another that said “Love is Strength.” All proceeds went to the Empower 54 organization. Additionally, the following month, she sold many of her designer clothing items in order to raise money for the nonprofit, including a Versace dress worth 20,000 U.S. dollars.
This month, she was honored for her collaborative work with Chaka Clarke, her philanthropic partner. She and Clarke created a sustainable environment in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with the donation of 12.5 acres of land from Governor Gentiny Ngobila Manama. The land will house facilities such as schools, kitchens, a skilled acquisition center, farming lands and accommodations for volunteers.
Due to her countless efforts to support Empower 54 and the entire country as a whole, Kat Graham was recognized by some of the most notable people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Her hours dedicated toward facilities to better the region as well as funds made her stand out to the country’s leaders.
Through hard work and passion, Graham continues to improve the quality of live for all citizens of the country.
– Olivia Hayes
Photo: Flickr