Dining with the Stars: KLAT Magazine’s Exclusive Affair

In celebration of creativity and collaboration, Klat Magazine hosted an unforgettable dinner on the 27th of January, bringing together a stellar lineup of artists and talents at Gaucho Restaurant in Cardiff City. The exclusive event was a testament to the magazine’s commitment to celebrating the talents in Cardiff who have graced its pages and those who have played a crucial role in shaping the platform since its inception.

The evening promised not only an exquisite menu and an expression of elegance, with the stars clad in black-tie attire for the evening, but also an acknowledgment of those who contribute to the magazine’s unique blend of art, culture, and creativity.

The evening commenced with a glamorous photography session by Joe Andrews, during which the entrance of each guest turned into a display of style and creativity as they graced Gaucho Restaurant. The evening welcomed guests such as Bablu Shikdar, a skilled presenter and public speaker, and Sharon Kostini, a respected artist and curator, who charmed the cameras with her charismatic presence.

Each guest, from musicians like Lily Webbe, Asha Jane, and Blankface to KLAT cover stars E1EVEN, and Amechi Madu, had their moment in the spotlight, capturing the essence of their contributions to the magazine.

The seating and introductions segment set a lively atmosphere as the curated guest list mingled, sharing stories and laughter. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the KLAT team, including Taiye Omokore, the editorial director of KLAT Magazine; Noah Bakour, the director of photography; Laurine Johnson, a junior producer; and Elina Lee, the assistant stylist of KLAT’s past publications, took their seats amidst the other collaborators of the magazine.

Noah Bakour took the stage during the opening remarks, expressing gratitude for the collaborative journey that has defined KLAT Magazine. His eloquence set the stage for a night that celebrated not only artistic achievement but also the human connections that make the platform a community.

The main course was a feast for the senses, comprising fillet steak salads and mushroom tagliatelle. Guests indulged in a carefully curated menu, forging connections over delectable dishes, creating a blend that echoed the collaborative spirit of the publication.

As the night progressed, Taiye Omokore took centre stage with an awe-inspiring speech. “I grew up in a small place called Idofin in Kogi State, Nigeria. It was a little town where you knew everyone in the village. I remember not wanting to leave and always wanting to go back to that small village because that was home to me; that’s where I felt safe and confident.” He reflected on the importance of appreciating our unique stories, where we come from, and our accomplishments.

His passion for the young and creative community in Cardiff echoed through the room as his words resonated with the audience: “Tonight is more than just a dinner; it’s a celebration of the collective efforts that have shaped our editorial endeavours. That’s why we’re here—to celebrate the people in front of our cameras and, more importantly, everyone behind the camera who makes everything work. Your dedication and creativity have been the driving forces behind our success.”

A heartwarming toast led by Asha Jane added a touch of celebration to the night. Glasses clinked, laughter filled the air, and the room was charged with a shared sense of accomplishment and anticipation for future collaborations, as well as the significance of the success and aspirations that bind the magazine’s community together.

A delightful surprise awaited the Director of Photography as he celebrated another trip around the sun on January 28th. The entire room erupted into a chorus of birthday songs, showering him with warm wishes for the best birthday ahead. It was a heartwarming moment that added an extra touch of joy to the gathering, marking the occasion with shared smiles and camaraderie.

The festivities continued with networking, socialising, and more pictures. The informal setting allowed the talents to forge new connections, share ideas, and bask in the success of the night. The event concluded at 10:30 PM, marking the end of an evening that will undoubtedly be remembered as a milestone in the history of Klat Magazine.

As the stars faded into the night, the echoes of laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the shared experiences lingered, as did the statements made by the editorial director, Taiye Omokore, “I want all the young creatives here to know that we are powerful, we are determined, and we are the future,” summing up the essence of Klat Magazine’s Dinner—a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the vibrant community that continues to shape the magazine.

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Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo