Change is coming to Manhattan this October as Self Help Africa's annual Change-Maker's Ball sees over 450 people coming together for a great night out in support of African entrepreneurship. Groups from the worlds of business and the media will join sports and entertainment personalities for a night of music and networking at Chelsea Piers on October 26th, 2012.

“It's a wonderful cause providing very tangible benefits and people are happy to support," said event co-chair Karl Wall, president and CEO of Enstar. "The fact that the event is also fun, makes it a real highlight on the social calendar”

The event's other co-chair, Tom Dowling, chief administrative officer of Goldman Sachs Bank USA, said the night offered people living and working in Manhattan a chance to "get involved in Africa's future".

"I've been to see Self Help Africa's programs in Ethiopia, and came away so impressed with the way that they harness people's own entreprenurial spirit to combat poverty. It's a real success story, and this night gives people a great opportunity to play a part in that success."

Held to benefit Self Help Africa's projects in eight countries across Africa, the black-tie event, which includes a gourmet meal, open bar, a seven-piece band along with live and silent auctions, has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in its first two years.

Returning this year to emcee the gala is CBS news reporter Margaret Brennan, who will preside over an evening of music, dance and entertainment.

Also attending this year will be Self Help Africa Ambassador Denis Hickie, the former Irish and Lions rugby star Denis Hickie. "I've seen what the organization does in Africa and because of that, I'm committed to supporting them in whatever way I can," he said. "I can't recommend the night - or the cause - highly enough."

Adding to the party atmosphere will be award-winning chef Nils Noren, whose signature ChangeMakers Cocktail - created specially for the event - have helped to raise tens of thousands for the cause at previous events.

"This is our flagship event to support Self Help Africa's programs throughout Africa," said the charity's head of business development, Martha Hourican. "Every year, quite literally, tens of thousands of people see their lives transformed from the support that the Change-Maker's Ball attracts. "

"What better way to spend a Friday night in October than changing someone's life for the better in 2013, and having a great time doing it?"

All pictures are from Applause Africa Archives.