Who Are We?
Afrofest is a community based and focused initiative that seeks to promote community cohesion and integration, through social events. We aim to celebrate diversity and promote cultural fusion.
What We Do?
We currently run summer BBQs. Entertainment for kids includes jumping castles, face painting and other activities. Adults are entertained by football, music and comedy. Different types of African and Carribean food and drink will be available on the menu. Our average attendance for our fortnightly events running from end the of April to end the of August is around 300. It is on the backdrop of these events that we have decided to organise one BIG festival event, which will be held in July. This event will be sandwiched either side, by our usual fortnightly events.
Why We Do It?
One of the leading causes of mental health problems and antisocial behaviour is a sense of isolation and loneliness. For that reason, we feel it is extremely important to create an environment that allows families and individuals, to socialise and develop meaningful relationships and be fully integrated into the wider community. Through a survey carried out last year at our summer BBQs, we established that of the 128 people surveyed, 3 out of every 8, had met new friends at the events, whom they had remained in contact with on a regular basis. 73% of the people felt that Afrofest BBQs had helped to improve their social lives. More than 80% of Parents felt that Afrofest BBQs allowed them an opportunity to socialise with friends, while their children fostered existing friendships and made new ones in a safe and friendly environment.
