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AUBURN — A special event and benefit, “Under African Skies,” will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 21, at Side by Each Brewery, 1110 Minot Ave.
The brewery is co-hosting the event with WISE Zambia, a Maine nonprofit. All profits from beer sales at the event will support WISE Zambia’s educational programming (Women’s Initiatives that Strengthen and Empower) in the sub-Saharan nation’s Western Province.
Bernie Vigna, known locally for his African drumming, will perform on congas and balafon. A silent auction will feature Zambian crafts and paintings as well as items donated by local businesses and individuals. Stories and photos of the non-profit’s work will also be part of the evening. The event is open to all. Everyone is encouraged to bring friends, enjoy the evening and be inspired by the stories.
“Giving back and supporting good causes has been one of our core values from the beginning,” said owner/brewer Matt Johannes, “and we usually keep it focused locally, but WISE Zambia is such a great program and really important to key people involved in the brewery that we wanted to help.”
The brewery is creating a beer especially for the occasion. “We had originally planned to brew a beer inspired by ancient brewing when we got our hands on some
Maine-grown and malted Egyptian barley,” said Ben Low, Side by Each partner with Johannes, “and then as the WISE event came together, it made sense to make the beer entirely from ingredients available in Africa. Under African Skies is a fun project unlike anything brewed before, and most importantly, delicious for the drinker.” Pinky D’s Poutine Factory on the premises has a special menu for the night, featuring a favorite food from Zambia.
WISE Zambia is a a non-governmental organization working in the poorest region of Zambia. By providing educational and community development programs, the organization empowers vulnerable women and young people, with girls at risk of early childhood marriage being the major target of their support. The goal is to provide scholarships for every student to achieve the pinnacle of her dreams and abilities, which usually amounts to a none-year commitment — five years of secondary school and four in college, university or nursing school. In addition, WISE Zambia expects and inspires all its recipients to “give back” by volunteering and to “pay it forward,” guaranteeing the sustainability of its mission.
“After 7 years being a part of this organization — and with eight trips to the project — I’m constantly astounded at our growth and increasing impact, the recognition we are now receiving from government agencies, and the potential for community development that lies ahead,” said Auburn resident Joanne Bollinger, current board president of WISE Zambia. “We are so grateful to be partnering with Side by Each and looking forward to a great night.”
For more information, call 207-751-3364 or email jojobollinger371@gmail.com.
PHOTO: High school scholarship girls enjoying themselves after a study session. (Submitted photo)
