Madalina Costache recently joined All for Africa a non profit organization that is “poised” to revolutionize the development of the continent because she could not understand how it was possible that after more than 20 years and trillions of dollars in international aid Africa actually seems worse off now. She believes that most of the organizations that donated money didn’t look at the situation beyond “right now”. Their response to the desperation people were facing was to implement short term solutions which of course didn’t make a substantial difference. It seemed like a no brainer for her to join this new organization with an innovative approach to poverty alleviation. They are developing projects that are sustainable and will empower the continent from within and make it less dependant on outside help. She has been working on an exciting event “Knock Out Poverty” that will take place on September 23rd at the Hammerstein Ballroom.
Tell us about the event you have been working on?
In order to raise All for Africa’s profile in the New York non profit scene we decided to start an annual party that would secure a solid donor basis. The event developed into a night of boxing-music-comedy which we named “Knock out Poverty” The theme of the night is Africa, heads of state will be in attendance, the boxing events are sanctioned by the IBF and the music program is led by Grammy Winner Youssou N’Dour from Senegal. George Wolfe who ran the New York Public Theatre for over a decade (and also directed the well-received HBO film Lackawanna Blues) brought his expertise to the table and added elements of high intensity that will keep the crowd excited.
The latest major development is that we just decided to open the event to people that love getting involved with great causes but who can’t afford to spend $2500 or $1000 on a ticket so the second balcony of the Hammerstein is on sale for $85 per seat. We did that as an effort to encourage young entrepreneurs, young activists and in general young professionals or students to get involved with this great cause. For $85 one can see 3 great boxing fights, incredible performances from Grammy award winners (yes we have 2 Grammy winners but I’m not allowed to disclose the second one we will keep it as a surprise) free drinks and free food.
You currently went to Africa, tell us about that experience?
I went in August for the first time as I felt that in order to be a true advocate of this cause, I needed to experience firsthand what it is like there. Being there made me understand more where I stand today and what I am able to do at this point in my life for the people on this continent. I really loved the reddish roads and how they contrasted with the vegetation I loved hanging out with kids and having that interaction where you don’t have to be guarded and calculated. I loved the people and how they smiled from within (it wasn’t like that NY robotic smile when just the corners of the mouth turn up while everything else stays the same) and I loved the fact that I was able to travel without heels and makeup! ( Besides her passion for philanthropy, Madalina is also a Louboutin collector).
Favorite brands?
Missoni its feminine and warm
Chanel because …its ridiculously overpriced but we all crave to own at least a piece and that piece will last us a lifetime. Christian Louboutin because his shoes are the trademark of the sensual woman
Favorite restaurants?
I love Asia de Cuba the food there is amazing. As a casual place I like Houston’s. They have best ribs best chicken salad and tuna salad and their fries…well their fries can shame any French bistro in new york
Favorite quote
This too shall pass… “King Solomon once searched for a cure against depression. He assembled his wise men together. They meditated for a long time and gave him the following advice: Make yourself a ring and have thereon engraved the words “This too shall pass”. The King carried out the advice. He had the ring made and wore it constantly. Every time he felt sad and depressed, he looked at the ring, whereon his mood would change to happy”
