photos of Afrochella and Afropunk
As Afochella has just debuted its fifth year in Ghana during the ending of 2021, it's only fair that we acknowledge its conceptualization of African culture. Can you imagine one festival can combat the negative and stereotypical notions that others have of African culture? Afrochella is about that life and has done just that; its embodiment of the diversity of Africa itself is astonishing.
So what about the Caribbean? Yes, we may have festivals like Reggae Sumfest and Carnival, undeniably Caribbean, and replicate our culture to a T. But sometimes, I wonder what a mix of Afro-punk or Afrochella would resemble if brought to the Caribbean.
Platforms like Afro-nation, Afropunk, and Afrochella bring artists from all over the diaspora together to celebrate their roots and a shared culture that is as old as time. While Afrochella embodies the diversity of African Culture, other festivals are a bit more nuanced and celebrate the beauty of blackness itself. So who's to say that won't work here. Imagine our delicious food, beautiful music, and gifted entrepreneurs fused together with the very essence of black beauty. Being able to pay homage to our ancestors by executing what was once an elusive dream is a blessing.
From reputable artists to upcoming artists, an Afrocaribe festival would unite the islands and show the world we are united. If you are not familiar with the Caribbean, many Caribbean folks have only been to two or more islands. But with our globalized world, it's time for a cultural bridge. The ability to bring Caribbean artists together while highlighting black excellence could be the catalyst we didn't know we wanted.
Fashion, Entrepreneurship, Sophistication, and Beauty all in one music festival. A generation that negates all the isms and comes together to look, feel good, and eat good food!! I'm here for it sis!! While it's beautiful that we have black Caribbean artists performing at these Afronation etc., it's about time we develop our own. Don't you think?
The Caribbean is filled with potential, don't sleep on us... there is just a way about us. So Afrochella, you have a run for your money because the Caribbean has arrived.
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