How Pam Mbatani Turned Her Birthday Into an Investment in the Next Generation
NEW YORK – Birthdays are traditionally about receiving. For New York-based philanthropist and liaison officer Pam Mbatani, celebrating another year of life has become an opportunity to give.
On July 18, Mbatani welcomed approximately 50 invited guests to Ace Hotel New York for a birthday celebration benefiting South Bronx United, a nonprofit that empowers young people through education, mentorship, leadership development and soccer.
Instead of birthday gifts, Mbatani asked guests to donate directly to the organization. With a goal of $5,000, the campaign raised approximately $3,000 in just over a week. But its most meaningful impact came when one supporter committed to an ongoing donation of $300 per month – a contribution that is expected to take the campaign beyond its original fundraising goal over time while continuing to support young people long after the party ended.
“I was overwhelmed with gratitude,” Mbatani says. “It reminded me that people genuinely want to support the next generation. Sometimes they simply need an opportunity to understand where their support is going and the difference it can make.”
Born and raised in Nyanga Township in Cape Town, South Africa, Mbatani remembers growing up with limited access to structured after-school activities and youth development programs. Those experiences helped shape her commitment to creating opportunities for young people.
That connection drew her to South Bronx United.
During the event, Joshua Sigal spoke to guests about the organization’s work, while Karamoko Kaba performed soccer freestyle. Young people connected with South Bronx United also received an extraordinary opportunity to participate in the player walkout surrounding the FIFA World Cup Final in New Jersey – an experience Mbatani believes demonstrates what can happen when children are given opportunities to dream beyond their circumstances.
The Ace Hotel celebration, organized with support from Aramis Zitu Alexander, Francois Alexander and KyKy Conille, brought together guests from entertainment, finance, fashion and entrepreneurs.
Attendees included Ty Hunter, longtime stylist to Beyonce; Faridah Gbadamosi, senior film programmer and curator at the Tribeca Festival; actor and model Aria De Chicchis; actor Niza Jay; and model and influencer Adrian Nunez, alongside entrepreneurs, creatives and community supporters.
Entertainment was provided by Prince Hakim, Tawana, Kris Graham and singer Denise Weeks.
For Mbatani, the evening represents something larger than a birthday fundraiser. Through Celebrating with Purpose, she plans to continue selecting youth-focused organizations to support through future birthdays while encouraging others to reconsider how personal milestones can create opportunities for giving.
“Sometimes the greatest impact isn’t measured by what happens in one night,” Mbatani says. “It’s what continues afterward.”
Photography: Charles Wills (@cwills)
