The splendor and individuality of African culture in Pittsburgh was celebrated on June 20 during the Black Diamond Ball.

The black-tie gala dinner at the Pittsburgh Athletic Club was the first fund-raiser for Afrika Yetu, a presenting organization that promotes African music and arts.

It also uses its cultural, artistic, educational and social programs to help African immigrants become integrated into American society.

The Nelson Mandela Leadership and Diversity Award was presented to Esther Bush, Oliver Byrd, Yvonne Cook, the Rev. Carmen D'Amico, Dr. Schuyler Foerster, Bishop Joseph Garlington, Monsignor William Kerr, the Rev. Harold Lewis, Susan Rauscher, Jeanne Pearlman, Dr. Damien Pwono, Janet Sarbaugh, Sala Udin and the Rev. J. Van Alfred Winsett for the help they have given continental Africans who are new to Pittsburgh.