Dreaming in Decades: A Blueprint for Building a Legacy

If you get what you want, will you be ready for what you have?

This is a question Kwanza asks often, not only as a reflection, but also as a challenge. Success isn't simply about achieving goals; it's about the foresight and effort invested in preparing for what comes next. And that requires work.

Getting what you want is only half the story. The other half is about being ready for it, mentally, emotionally, structurally, and strategically. That’s where resilience and preparation come in. And that’s where legacy is built.

At the 2025 Apollo Spring Benefit, this message came to life in more ways than one. The evening marked a pivotal moment: the last Spring Benefit before The Apollo temporarily closes its doors for its first full-scale renovation in nearly a century.

It was about preparing for a future where The Apollo isn’t just preserved, but reimagined. One where it continues to be a launching pad for emerging talent, a beacon for Black culture, and a powerful space for community, creativity, and change.

Building Boldly, Not Just Celebrating Brilliance

Kwanza returned once again as Premier Sponsor of the event through the Kwanza Jones & José E. Feliciano Initiative, continuing a legacy of support. It wasn’t about the photos or the headlines. As a longtime Board Member, she showed up for the planning, the investing, the strategy, and the visioning.

She took the stage to introduce the inaugural Innovator Award, reminding the audience that The Apollo is a space where “culture is created, always imitated, never duplicated.” She later returned to the spotlight with Harlem icon Dapper Dan and actress-comedian Sherri Shepherd to present the award to Teyana Taylor, honoring a fellow multi-hyphenate and creative force.

Yes, it was a moment of celebration. But beneath the applause was a deeper message: If you want to build a legacy, you have to be ready for responsibility.

That kind of commitment goes beyond being seen. It requires accountability. You have to show up consistently, intentionally, and with purpose. It means asking bold questions like, “What does this institution need to thrive in its next decade?” and “How do I create lasting impact?”

This is what Kwanza embodies through her ongoing support of The Apollo. Her presence on stage was symbolic. It was the result of years of advocacy, engagement, and preparation. The opportunity to help shape a legacy like The Apollo’s doesn’t come from momentary involvement. It comes from long-term dedication to vision and action.

Dreaming in Decades: A Philosophy in Practice

That mindset is at the heart of Kwanza’s work and the way she shows up in spaces like The Apollo. Her philosophy of “Dreaming in Decades” isn’t just about long-term thinking—it’s about long-term execution. It means preparing now for the outcomes you want years from today. It means building systems, creating access, and nurturing community even before the spotlight hits.

The Apollo itself is a reflection of that philosophy. The purpose of its upcoming renovation is beyond physical transformation. It’s about cultural and institutional sustainability. It’s ensuring that future generations will continue to have a place where they can be seen, heard, and empowered.

That kind of transformation doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with intention. It happens through leaders who ask, “Are we building what we say we want?” and “Will we be ready when the opportunity arrives?”

Boosting Forward Together

Kwanza’s continued commitment to The Apollo reminds us that true impact isn’t always loud or fast. Sometimes, it’s the consistent support. The quiet advocacy. The willingness to roll up your sleeves and prepare, not just for what’s now, but for what comes next.

And most importantly, she doesn’t do it alone. She brings others along for the journey. Whether it’s her teamily (team) attending the event, emerging leaders gaining visibility, or creatives finding community in her orbit, Kwanza’s approach to legacy is inclusive by design.