Known in local political parlance as the speaker, the mayor of Hackney has always been an important member of London's political landscape because of the borough's multi-cultural and multi-ethnic nature. Councillor Etti reflected this in the way the event was organised and the wide range of guests she invited.
Aimed at raising funds for the mayor's three nominated charities including domestic abuse non-governmental organisation Hestia, Hackney Food Bank and the Immediate Theatre, the event kicked off at 7.30pm, with tickets selling for £60. London food distributor Eniola Foods was one of the event's major sponsors and there were guests from Nigeria, including a First Bank entourage and a delegation from Ogun State.
Among the guests on the night were the speaker and deputy speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly. Ministers from the Nigerian high commission in London were also in attendance.
There was also a Nigerian flair to the entertainment with Afrobeat musician Deoba Authentic singing a rendition from his current single Lagbotiwa. To add to the occasion, about 12 mayors from other London boroughs also attended, making the dinner one of the most successful multi-cultural fundraisers in local government ever.
Councillor Etti said: "I am particularly delighted with the turnout from other mayors, as they turned up en masse to support us. I am also pleased with the generous way in which people donated to our cause, which indicates that they regard these three charities as important."
Before the event, Councillor Etti had set a target of raising about £15,000 on the night and with money still coming in, she is hopeful that the figure can be reached. Several pledges are being chased up by Hackney Council staff and over the next week, Councillor Etti hopes that the target will be reached.
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