Afro Culture Extravaganza and Gala 20 - 21 December 2024

Goals:

• Celebrate African Culture

• Fundraising

• Community Engagement

• Promote African Talent

• Networking & Collaboration

• Cultural Preservation

• Awareness & Education

• Empowerment

• Social Impact

• Inclusivity and Diversity

Objectives

1. Organize a High-Quality Event: Plan and execute a well-organized and memorable event that includes cultural performances, exhibitions, and a gala dinner.

2. High-Profile Guests: Invite and feature high-profile African personalities, influencers, and celebrities to attract more attendees and media attention.

3. Media Coverage: Secure extensive media coverage before, during, and after the event to maximize visibility and reach a broader audience.

4. Community Involvement: Engage local African communities and organizations in the planning and execution of the event to ensure authenticity and inclusiveness.

5. Scholarship and Grants: Allocate a portion of the funds raised to support scholarships, grants, or projects aimed at enhancing education and development in African communities.

6. Cultural Merchandise: Develop and sell event-specific merchandise, such as clothing, jewelry, and crafts, that reflect African culture and contribute to fundraising efforts

7. Post-Event Community Engagement: Continue engaging with the community after the event through follow-up activities, newsletters, and social media updates to maintain interest and support.

8. Attract Attendees: Market the event effectively to attract a diverse audience, including community members, business leaders, and potential donors.

3. Raise Funds: Implement various fundraising strategies such as ticket sales, sponsorship packages, auctions, raffles, and direct donations to meet or exceed fundraising targets.

9. Highlight Cultural Performances: Feature performances by African musicians, dancers, and artists to entertain and educate attendees about African culture.

10. Engage Sponsors and Partners: Secure sponsorships and partnerships with local businesses, corporations, and community organizations to support the event financially and through in-kind contributions.

11. Promote Cultural Awareness: Use the event as a platform to educate attendees about the significance and diversity of African culture and traditions and the upcoming made in Africa Expo Canada.

12. Evaluate Success: Conduct post-event evaluations to assess the success of the event, gather feedback from attendees, and identify areas for improvement for future events.

EVENT SCHEDULE

Day 1: December 20th, 2024 (11 AM - 6 PM)

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Registration and Welcome

- Attendee Registration

- Welcome Drinks and Light Snacks

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Opening Ceremony

- Welcome Address by Event Host

- Traditional African Dance Performance

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Cultural Workshops (Concurrent Sessions)

- Workshop 1: African Drumming and Dance

- Workshop 2: African Art and Craft Making

- Workshop 3: African Storytelling and Folklore

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Panel Discussion

- Topic: The Role of African Diaspora in Global Development

- Panelists: Influential African Leaders and Entrepreneurs

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Cultural Exhibitions and Marketplace

- Exhibition Booths Open

- African Crafts, Clothing, and Art for Sale

- Live Demonstrations by Artisans

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Music and Dance Performances

- Performances by Local and International African Artists

- Interactive Dance Sessions with Attendees

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Celebratory Parade

- Parade featuring Traditional African Music and Dance

- Participation by Cultural Groups and Performers

5:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Networking Session

- Opportunity for Attendees to Connect and Network

- Light Refreshments Served

Day 2: December 21st, 2024 (4 PM - 11 PM)

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Arrival and Welcome

- Attendee Arrival

- Welcome Drinks and Light Snacks

4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Opening Remarks

- Opening Remarks by Event Host

- Keynote Speech by Special Guest

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Business and Innovation Forum

- Talks by African Entrepreneurs and Innovators

- Q&A Sessions

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Cultural Showcases

- Performances by African Musicians and Dancers

- Highlights of Traditional African Attire and Customs

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Fashion Show

- Showcasing Designs by African Designers

- Commentary on African Fashion Trends

8:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Gala Dinner Reception

- Formal Dinner with African Cuisine

- Special Guest Speakers

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Awards Ceremony

- Presentation of Awards to Outstanding Contributors

- Recognition of Sponsors and Partners

10:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Gala Night Entertainment

- Live Music Performances

- Dance Floor Open for Attendees