Bigger Than the Program: Snap Scene Shows Up for Kwanzaa Celebration in Queens

Kwanzaa is not new to me. Growing up in a Rastafarian household, these principles were not something we dusted off once a year. They were lived. Practiced. Passed down. So stepping into Queens Borough President Donovan Richards’ Kwanzaa celebration felt less like an introduction and more like a reminder.

Snap Scene’s Iya Thomas, invited and joined by Vivian of BuyCheapCentral.com, was in the building for a night that was rich in culture, heavy on intention, and full of real connection. This was not a show and go home situation. The conversations mattered. The energy lingered. The purpose was clear.

The community was fed well with catering from The Door, fresh hot pizza and desserts that did not play small. Bellies were full and so were spirits. The room stayed alive long after the performances ended.

The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, Snap Scene Style

Umoja, Unity

Unity was on full display from shared tables to shared conversations. Snap Scene exists to bring people together, whether through events, media, or moments that remind us we’re stronger when we’re connected.

Kujichagulia, Self Determination

Vivian of BuyCheapCentral.com embodied this principle effortlessly. From his custom embroidered jacket to how he worked the room, he was intentional about reminding familiar faces that BuyCheapCentral.com was still very much in the building and introducing himself to those who needed to know. Determined. Focused. Purpose-driven.

Ujima, Collective Responsibility

This was not surface level networking. Information was exchanged with real plans to support one another beyond the night.

Ujamaa, Cooperative Economics

Business owners stayed after the music stopped to learn each other and learn from each other. That is cooperative economics in real time.

Nia, Purpose

Snap Scene’s purpose showed up without trying. Documenting culture, amplifying community, and creating moments that matter is what we do, and Iya slipped right into her element. Before the night wrapped, community leaders and strangers turned instant cousins were lining up, asking her to catch their good side.

Kuumba, Creativity

From the performances to the fashion to the storytelling, creativity filled the room and reminded us why expression is essential.

Imani, Faith

Closing out Snap Scene’s highest grossing year, I move forward with faith that 2026 will be even bigger and brighter.

Leadership That Felt Personal

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards moved through the room like someone who genuinely cared. He stopped. He listened. He took photos. He exchanged information. He connected. His wife and son were just as warm and present, adding to the sense of family in the space.

One thing was noted that stuck with me. This was the only elected official celebrating Kwanzaa. That spoke volumes. Culture was not just acknowledged. It was honored.

Gratitude, Hope, and What Comes Next

I left thankful. Thankful for community. Thankful for culture. Thankful for alignment. I was able to share what Snap Scene is and what we stand for through our event experiences, workshops, content creation, and community centered storytelling. With hope and intention, I look forward to continued collaborations. Culture is not a trend. It's a responsibility and Snap Scene carries it proudly.