By Bazona Barnabe Bado
BurkinaBe In Action (BBIA) celebrated its fourth anniversary on May 23, 2026, in Maplewood, New Jersey, with an event that brought together elected officials, dignitaries, community leaders, nonprofit representatives, business owners, and supporters from across the region. Among those in attendance was Maplewood Mayor Victor De Luca.
“Today is special because we are celebrating four years of BBIA—four years of community, culture, service, education, partnership, and impact,” said Ms. Alizeta Diallo, founder of BBIA.
The celebration drew guests from across the United States, including visitors from New York and Washington, D.C., who gathered despite the rain to show their support for the organization and its mission.
Over the past four years, BBIA has organized and supported a wide range of initiatives, including BBContes, Black History Month and Women’s History Month activities, entrepreneur visibility efforts, community networking events, cultural programs, volunteer service, children’s activities, and, most recently, a financial education series in partnership with BCB Bank, BINK Charity International, and Hope for All.
“It’s truly a great organization,” said Mayor De Luca, who noted that BBIA helps bring cultural awareness to Maplewood. “We value everyone, including all those involved in BBIA.”
BBIA is a community-based nonprofit organization with a mission to build bridges across cultures and communities while promoting civic engagement, cultural awareness, education, professional development, and empowerment through programs and partnerships that connect people and create meaningful impact.
As part of its continued commitment to the community, Ms. Diallo said BBIA welcomes anyone who wants to contribute to its mission. “We are looking for volunteers, board members, sponsors, partners, mentors, and community professionals who want to help us continue this work,” she said.
Guests enjoyed children’s activities, storytelling, a fashion and cultural showcase, barbecue, African cuisine, and giveaways throughout the celebration.