By Leigh Verburg, Branch Librarian, Comstock Park Branch
“The A Glimpse of Africa annual festival is a spectacular one-day African cultural event that showcases the rich, diverse and beautiful African cultures through fashion, art, crafts, food, dance, music, poetry and so much more. Africa is not only the home and the heart of diversity, it’s also known for the rich history and culture, and we are privileged to bring that experience right here in our city.” – aglimpseofafrica.org
This year the Calder Plaza in Grand Rapids is the place to visit on August 14 from 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM. A Glimpse of Africa (AGOA) is throwing a festival to highlight and celebrate African culture while bringing the community together.
A Glimpse of Africa is a new non-profit organization; they are only about three years old. This would have been their third event. However, due to COVID last year, the festival was not able to be held. The focus of the festival is to bring people together.
Fridah, the founder, CEO and president of A Glimpse of Africa, said that this organization is “a platform to bring people together to celebrate, educate and share diverse rich cultures from Africa through music, food, fashion, crafts and of course, involving the African community in impactful engagements.” This is done in several different ways --- through the festival as well as small community events like COVID relief and a mental health series. In February and March, AGOA also celebrated with events around Black History Month in partnership with the GRNAACP and Women’s History Month.
Fridah is the small business owner of Flora's Elegance Events Décor. She is also on the Board of Soul Hope, which helps development in third world countries. She is an inspiring person who lights up the room when she walks in. She is very passionate about what she does and makes every effort to care for her community and her volunteers.
To connect with A Glimpse of Africa, check out their Facebook page, YouTube channel and Instagram to get all the newest updates. They can also be found at aglimpseofafrica.org. If you would like to volunteer, they are currently in need of vendors, fashion models and designers, as well as basic volunteers. All are welcome! Sponsorships are also available with multiple levels available.
Kent District Library will be highlighting heritage and diversity events and festivals throughout the year and focusing on local organizations that bring awareness and engagement opportunities to our community.
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