This interview was taped from the Red Carpet at the WSOP Ante Up for Africa charity event with founders Annie Duke and Don Cheadle. The charity event takes place every year from the World Series of Poker and raises money and awareness for those suffering in the continent of Africa. Ante Up For Africa is a not-for-profit organization founded by Don Cheadle, Annie Duke and Norman Epstein. They are dedicated to raising money and awareness for Africans in need.
Annie Duke is one of the most famous poker players in the world and is also known for her work in charity circles. At the felts, she has a WSOP bracelet to her name from the 2004 $3,000 Omaha Hi/Lo event. Her biggest tournament score was winning the WSOP Tournament of Champions, where she bested Phil Hellmuth heads-up for $2 million. Currently, Duke is a sponsored pro and spokesperson for UB.com.
Don Cheadle is one of Hollywood’s biggest names who grew to fame in the movie Boogie Nights. He later went on to star in the “Oceans” series of movies and had vital roles in important films such as “Crash” and received critical acclaim for “Hotel Rwanda” where he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Cheadle is also an avid poker player and has been spotted not only doing with with his Ante Up for Africa brainchild, but with other charitable poker organizations as well.
In this interview, Duke and Cheadle are asked about the tournament’s humble beginnings and the need not only for funds to help people in Africa, but for political awareness as well. Both talk about the importance of understanding the view a “World Citizen” has in the global community and how everyday people can get involved and help those in need.
You can learn more about Ante Up for Africa at their official website.