Built Different Gala 2026
New Benchmarks and Beginnings
Thursday, January 22, 2026 • 7:00–11:00 PM
Ballroom at the Ben
834 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19107
Formal Attire with a Red Accent
Presenting the Voices of the Evening
Honoring Brandon Graham, Super Bowl Champion
- Brandon Graham—2010 first-round pick, 15-year Eagle, and the author of the strip-sack that sealed Super Bowl LII.
- Brandon Graham gave Philadelphia 15 seasons of honest football.
Drafted in 2010, he stayed with one team, one city, and one standard. - Fans remember the play: the strip-sack that turned Super Bowl LII.
Teammates remember the voice in the huddle and the effort in every rep. - He retired in March 2025, but his impact lives on—on the field, in the locker room, and across the city he chose to call home.
Today, we honor a career built on persistence, accountability, and joy in the game.
Career notes
- Philadelphia Eagles, 2010–2024 (15 seasons)
- Signature moment: strip-sack in Super Bowl LII (2018)
- Role: defensive end; long-tenured leader and teammate
Mina “SayWhat” Llona, the voice that turns big moments into real conversations.
Mina is an award-winning broadcaster, host, and journalist with 15+ years across TV, radio, and digital.
She hosts Mina’s House on SIRIUSXM The Heat and produces The Mina’s House Podcast. Her reporting appears in The Philadelphia Tribune, and she contributes national commentary for the Law & Crime Network.
Mina has held on-air roles in Philadelphia and New York, made TV appearances on major networks, and hosted marquee live events including the Philadelphia Puerto Rican Day Parade.
Honors include a Gracie Award and induction into Syracuse University’s WJPZ Radio Hall of Fame.
Known for sharp interviews, warm crowd energy, and a deep connection to community, Mina brings professionalism and heart—while proudly balancing life as a working mom.
Opening Remarks: Senator Sharif Street
A Philadelphia voice for service, safety, and opportunity
Senator Sharif Street represents Pennsylvania’s 3rd District, serving neighborhoods across North Philadelphia. First elected in 2016, he’s focused on public safety, quality schools, housing, jobs, and fair justice.
He has led on small-business capital access as Democratic Chair of the Senate Banking & Insurance Committee, and he’s a long-time advocate for criminal-justice reform and regulated adult-use cannabis.
Recent wins in the district include laptop grants to community institutions and new housing funds directed to local programs—work that meets people where they are.
He opens our program with remarks on commitment, community, and the next generation of Philadelphia athletes and leaders.
Career notes
- Pennsylvania State Senate, District 3 (2017–present).
- Former Chair, Pennsylvania Democratic Party (2022–2025).
- Democratic Chair, Senate Banking & Insurance Committee; Democratic Co-Chair, Crime Prevention Caucus.
- Advocate for criminal-justice reform and adult-use cannabis legislation.
The Cause
Event Snapshot
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
VIP Reception (Invitation Only)
Cocktail hour for honorees, sponsors, and distinguished guests
Location: Upper Floor of Ballroom
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Gala Reception
Doors open to all guests
Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, red carpet photos, and networking
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Evening Program & Dinner
Special Emcee Announcement Coming Soon
9:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Dancing & Celebration
Live DJ, dessert stations, and celebration with the YM Athletics community
Features
- Opening Remarks
Senator Sharif Street
Mina “SayWhat” Llona (Host) - Welcome Message
Britainy Stephens, Director of Development, YM Athletics - Guest Remarks
Victor Rozier, President, YM Athletics
“Built Different” – YM Athletics Impact Video - Honoree Tribute
Honoring Brandon Graham, Super Bowl Champion - Live Fundraising & Giving Moment
Paddle raise, mobile donations, and pledge opportunities
Tickets & Evening Table Sponsorship
Limited quantities.
Sponsor the Built Different Gala
Limited quantities.
Advertising Opportunities
Limited quantities.
FAQ
Can I transfer my ticket?
– Yes. Tickets are transferable to another guest until January 15, 2026.
Is a tax receipt available for sponsors?
– We provide a letter stating the fair-market value of benefits. Any amount above that value may be receiptable under current guidelines.
What should I wear?
– Formal attire with a red accent.
Is there an age limit?
– 21+ for bar service. Families and guests under 21 may attend at your discretion; please bring ID for anyone using the bar.
Photography and video
– By attending, you consent to event photography and video for recap and future promotion.
Accessibility
Elevator access and ADA seating are available. Please email us with any needs so we can plan your seating
Built Different Gala 2026
Thursday, January 22, 2026 • 7:00–11:00 PM
Ballroom at the Ben
834 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19107
Formal Attire with a Red Accent