When Nunu Desalgne, the host of the upcoming African Festival, spoke to me, I could relate to her when she said: “I miss my childhood.” As a fellow immigrant, I connected with her when she spoke about the connection between her homesickness and cultural festivals.
The upcoming African Festival’s goal is to “make people feel comfortable and [to] belong,” Desalgne says.
Like other festivals, they will have live music and an art walk. There are also vendors and food trucks that will sell delicious food that promotes African culture and identity. One of the best things about this festival is the Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
Different sports academies such as FC Edmonton and Community Grassroots Sports Academy will also be at the festival, helping to take donations from festival attendees.
“This is just a little home. This little event makes you feel like you’re right at home,” Desalgne says. “[The] community is the heart of the immigrant[s].”
Desalgne invites you to “Come out, enjoy yourself. By showing up, you are the bridge to help this community shine.”
Celebrating Afrika Day will take place on 107th Ave and 105th Street on May 28. The festival goes from 2-7 pm. Go and check out their Facebook event page for further information.
