Interactive experience features 20
local African American-owned businesses ^ + cultural, cash prizes to winners
The Soda City Certified® (SCC) app, Columbia’s only mobile application that aims to help residents and visitors explore our Capitol City, is proud to announce the return of the annual Black History Month Scavenger Hunt, launching February 1 and open to participants across the Midlands.
The free, self-guided scavenger hunt encourages residents, families, students and visitors to explore Columbia and surrounding areas while learning about local Black history, culture, and community impact through an engaging digital experience.
Participants will visit a variety of Black-owned businesses, historic sites, landmarks, and public art installations, and collect points by entering location-specific codes within the app. Some of the participating businesses and organizations include: Columbia 63: Our Story, Bessie’s Burgers & More, The Purple Mushroom, The Toasty Hot Spot, Webhead Fitness, Vibez Coffee, Converspace, Jabber & Issac Law Firm, and more. These entities offer a deeper look into the people, places, and stories that have shaped the region.
“Black history isn’t something that only lives in textbooks; it lives in our neighborhoods, our businesses, our art, and our everyday stories,” said Khali Gallman, founder, Soda City Certified® App. “This annual scavenger hunt is about making history accessible, interactive, and fun while encouraging people to truly explore the Midlands and support the spaces that continue to shape our community.”
Participation is completely free and open to everyone. To participate, simply download the SCC app and begin the scavenger hunt starting February 1. The hunt will run all month long. The first three participants to complete the full scavenger hunt will receive cash prizes, adding a fun competitive element to the educational experience.
SCC will feature a Women’s History Month scavenger hunt next month. SCC creates personalized scavenger hunts for small groups and corporate team-building exercises. The app services the following areas: Downtown Columbia, Forest Acres, West Columbia, Cayce, Harbison, Chapin, Northeast Columbia, Southeast Columbia, Lexington, Blythewood, Elgin, Irmo, St. Andrews, and Camden. For more information, visit www.sodacitycertified.com or email hello@sodacitycertified.com.
Making Dreams Come True Again with the 2026 Cinderella & Prince Charming Boutique
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Upsilon Omega Omega Chapter will host the 2026 Cinderella Project on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 8 to 11 a.m. at Brookland Baptist Church, 1066 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia.
The annual event provides high school students with free prom attire in a boutique-style setting. The Columbia-area Cinderella Project is presented in partnership with the South Carolina Bar Young Lawyers Division and brings together volunteers, sponsors and community members to support local students.
In 2025, the event expanded to include the Prince Charming Project, which will continue in 2026 by offering prom attire for young men. Donated attire, shoes and accessories help ensure students can attend prom feeling confident.
Students may browse dresses, suits and accessories, with volunteers assisting with fittings and styling. Practicing attorneys will also be available to discuss careers in the legal profession in a relaxed environment.
Participation is open to currently enrolled high school students from all Midlands-area schools with a valid student ID. Pre-registration at akairmo.org/events is required. Items are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Community members are encouraged to donate gently used prom dresses, shoes and accessories. Drop-off locations are listed on Upsilon Omega Omega’s social media pages.
For more information, visit Upsilon Omega Omega on Facebook at (@at)facebook.com/upsilonomegaomega on Instagram @akauoo (@akauoo), or email cinderellaprinceproject@gmail.com
About Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Upsilon Omega Omega Chapter
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Upsilon Omega Omega Chapter was chartered on May 9, 1998, and is headquartered in Irmo, South Carolina. The chapter delivers excellence in service through programs such as the Cinderella Project and the Emeralds of Excellence Debutante and Scholarship Program. Upsilon Omega Omega focuses on initiatives that empower families, build economic wealth, enhance the environment, advocate for social justice, and uplift local communities. The chapter’s annual Jazz & Art fundraiser supports many of its programs. UOO also serves as the graduate advising chapter for Upsilon Zeta at Columbia College. More information is available at www.akairmo.org
