African Experience Festival highlights rich cultural heritage in Bradford

An annual tradition is Bradford took over the Bradford West Gwillimbury (BWG) public library.

The African Experience Festival was a three-day event that celebrated Black and African culture though fashion, food, and storytelling.

The event showcased unique traditions, talents, and contributions by vendors.

Omolara Akerele, co-founder of the festival emphasized the importance African culture in Bradford.

“We talk about cultural challenges and culture shock and how to adapt when you move to Canada,” said Akerele. “How to bring your own culture and Canadian culture and bring it together.”

Vendors like Oyin, a fashion vendor, are thrilled that the festival happened outside in the public square for the first time.

‘It is nice we are going all out this year,” said Oyin. “I encourage everyone to come down and look out for me, other vendors selling African wears and a lot of other things.”

Akerele added festivals like the African Experience Festival are creating a more welcoming atmosphere for the Bradford region.

“It is becoming more diverse, a lot of people from the Caribbean, Jamaican, African and Indian descent are moving to Bradford and the city is expanding,” said Akerele. “I think great things are coming for Bradford.”