On 25 October, African Voices Forum hosted Afrifest 2025 at Kuumba Community Centre in Bristol, a vibrant celebration of African and Caribbean heritage through music, food, art and community connection. The event brought together families, friends and community groups for a day filled with joy, learning and cultural pride.

Visitors explored stalls showcasing African and Caribbean crafts, enjoyed delicious traditional foods and participated in health focused sessions including liver screening and vaccinations. The stage came alive with performances from diverse groups including the Dominican Republic and other South American communities, highlighting the rich tapestry of global cultures. We were honored to welcome the Lord Mayor of Bristol – Councillor Henry Michallat and Mme Jenny Foster, Co Director of the Global Goals Centre, whose presence added warmth and recognition to the occasion.

A special highlight was the youth screening of Dance for Peace, a film by African Eye that celebrates Mozambique’s first democratic elections through the power of dance. After attending the original screening on 16 October at the Commonwealth Society Bristol, an event that drew a large and engaged audience, I felt compelled to share its message with our young people. The film’s themes of unity, resistance to division and choosing dialogue over violence align deeply with our mission at African Voices Forum.

We climaxed the evening with an exclusive youth session featuring a screening of the film HIV, followed by engaging sexual health talks, music and food. It was a safe and empowering space for young people to learn, connect and celebrate together.

Afrifest 2025 was more than a festival. It was a powerful reminder of the strength we find in community, culture and peace.