Church of Scientology National Affairs Office Honors Arts Humanitarians at 13th Anniversary Event

The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office commemorated its 13th Anniversary with an event at the historic Fraser Mansion in Washington, DC, bringing together community members to honor individuals and groups for their humanitarian efforts to improve society through the arts. Executive Director Beth Akiyama provided an overview of the National Affairs Office's work over the past year in fields including arts, human rights, disaster response, drug education, and international religious freedom protection.

The Arts Humanitarian Awards were presented following the overview, inspired by a quote from humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard: "A civilization is as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists." The first award recognized the First Friday: Dupont Circle Art Walk, organized and promoted by the Dupont Circle Business Improvement District (BID). This monthly event highlights Dupont Circle's art galleries, embassies, and other organizations, opening these cultural venues to the community free of charge and allowing artists to display their work throughout the area, including at the Fraser Mansion that houses the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office.

William (Bill) McLeod, executive director of the Dupont Circle Business Improvement District (BID), accepted the Arts Humanitarian Award from Reverend Susan Taylor of the Church of Scientology. McLeod, who has worked to promote Dupont Circle for over 20 years, explained the Art Walk's origins: "Dupont Circle used to be a luxurious residential area. As times changed, what became the thing to do in Dupont Circle was to have an art gallery." He expressed pleasure in working with galleries, organizations, and the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office throughout these collaborative years.

The second award recipient was Dr. Kate Ndi, founder and CEO of the Miss Africa USA pageant. Through her work, young African women living in the United States are empowered to become leaders while promoting their unique African cultures through traditional dress and artistic performances. Participants must maintain humanitarian platforms addressing human rights, disability rights, arts, education, or similar causes through which they strive to improve society. Dr. Ndi's dedication has empowered hundreds of African women throughout Miss Africa USA's 20-year history, including leading a delegation of finalists to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City where they represented six countries at the Youth for Human Rights International Summit sponsored by the Church of Scientology International at https://www.scientology.org.

When accepting her award, Dr. Ndi emphasized that the recognition belonged to pageant participants as well, stating, "This award is about using the arts through fashion and cultural enrichment to impact humanity and make the world a better place." She was joined by Miss Africa USA's Honorary Queen Ambassador Porscha Taylor, Miss Africa USA Congeniality 2025 Atemkeng Tazi, and Miss Universe Eritrea Snit Tewoldemedhin.

The final award presented was a Lifetime Achievement Arts Humanitarian Award to Chateau and John Gardecki, founders of the Washington International Piano Arts Council (WIPAC). Twenty-five years ago, their love of classical piano music inspired them to create a competition for adult, nonprofessional pianists. WIPAC fosters appreciation of classical music while acknowledging those who play simply for the love of music. Established in 2002, WIPAC has held 20 annual competitions attracting nonprofessional pianists from around the world to Washington, DC.

In accepting the award, Chateau Gardecki thanked board members and supporters, sharing her fundamental message: "Love only grows if you share it." John Gardecki, a highly accomplished amateur pianist, performed three classical piano pieces during the event. Chateau also acknowledged Rhoda Septilici, the embassy liaison who first introduced WIPAC to the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office in 2013 and has remained a steadfast partner. The event highlighted the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office's commitment to recognizing individuals who enrich society through humanitarian efforts in the arts.