About this Event
What began as a movement in San Benito County is now taking flight into neighboring Santa Clara County. In proud collaboration with Gavilan College and Neon Exchange, BeProximity invites you to the beautiful Gavilan College Student Center in Gilroy for an unforgettable evening celebrating Black history, honoring Black excellence, and sharing the richness of Black culture while inviting the entire community to learn, connect, and celebrate together.
Prepare for an elegant "Dress to the Nines" Black Tie celebration where Black culture takes center stage through unforgettable cuisine, inspiring conversation, powerful performances, art, music, dancing, and community.
Your Evening Includes
🏆 The Inaugural Black Excellence Awards, honoring remarkable leaders, visionaries, and changemakers whose courage, service, and achievements continue to uplift our communities and inspire future generations.
🍽️ New this year: An unforgettable Black "Soul Food" dining experience catered by the Bay Area's iconic Jackie's Place, where every meal is prepared with tradition, heart, and unforgettable flavor.
🍰 Exquisite designer desserts handcrafted by the talented team at Mad Delectables, where every creation is as stunning as it is delicious.
🥁 An electrifying cultural performance by KUUMBA African Drummers and Dancers, whose powerful rhythms, vibrant movement, and storytelling create an immersive experience celebrating the beauty, resilience, and spirit of African heritage.
🎙️ The return of our Black Distinguished Panel, featuring a dynamic new panel of influential voices engaging in authentic conversations that educate, challenge perspectives, celebrate progress, and inspire meaningful action.
🎶 And when it's time to celebrate, we are going to TURN IT UP! DJ NESS will keep the dance floor alive as we close the evening with incredible music, laughter, nonstop dancing, and joyful celebration. Bring your dancing shoes because you won't want the night to end!
✨ Throughout the evening, enjoy elegant décor, stunning art, unforgettable entertainment, meaningful connections, and an atmosphere overflowing with culture, pride, joy, and celebration.
Whether you're joining us to celebrate Black history, honor Black excellence, connect with community, or support BeProximity's mission, you'll be part of an evening that reminds us what's possible when we choose to learn from one another, celebrate one another, and build a stronger future together.
🚪 Doors Open: 3:00 PM
🎤 Program Begins: 4:00 PM
🚪 Doors Close: 8:15 PM
Come dressed to impress. Bring your friends, your adult family, and your dancing shoes. We'll take it from there.
Please Note
• This event is designed for guests ages 18 and older.
• Dress to the Nines (Black Tie Attire)✨
• Seating is limited. Advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged.
Black Culture. Stronger Community.
Event venue & nearby stays
Gavilan College Student Center, Gilory, CA, 5055 Santa Teresa Boulevard, Gilroy, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.