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OVERVIEW

What is Black Ourstory Festival about?

Black people must tell their stories from their perspectives, or learn his-story as their own." - Sherrie Thompson

The Black Ourstory Festival welcomes everyone, with a special focus on Black individuals and communities. We also invite allies and advocates of Black culture to join us in celebrating and empowering the rich heritage of Ourstory and our people.

Ubuntu is an ancient African word meaning 'humanity to others'. It is often described as reminding us that 'I am what I am because of who we all are'.

I am because we are "Ubuntu" is sometimes translated as "I am because we are" (also "I am because you are"), or "humanity towards others" (Zulu umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu).

In Xhosa, the latter term is used, but is often meant in a more philosophical sense to mean "the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity".

In this third edition of the Black Ourstory Festival we will discover the collaborative and collective meaning of Ubuntu. What does it mean to be a community? What is common unity? How is Ubuntu expressed in the African community?

The Black Ourstory Festival is a vibrant celebration, held during Black History Month. It honors the history, heritage, and contributions of Black individuals and communities.

The Festival comes with an array of activities designed to enlighten and inspire. From engaging exhibitions and cultural discussions to arts and crafts, food vendors, and a pop-up museum, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Black Ourstory Festival is more than an event; it's a powerful tribute to Black culture and a call for unity, understanding, and empowerment. Come celebrate with us and experience the essence of Black heritage in an uplifting and memorable way.

What are the objectives of Black Ourstory Festival?

 
Celebrating Black Culture and Ourstory

During Black Ourstory Month, our Festival will shine a spotlight on Black artists, entrepreneurs, and thinkers. It’s a space for them to share their work and perspectives, enriching our collective understanding and appreciation of Black culture.

Promoting Unity and Understanding

By showcasing the contributions and experiences of Black individuals and communities, we aim to foster empathy and appreciation for the diversity of human experiences. Our Festival is a step towards a more united and understanding society.

Empowering Black Communities

Our Festival includes activities designed to uplift and empower Black communities. From workshops and panel discussions on social and political issues to a popup market supporting Black-owned businesses, we are committed to making a positive impact.

Educating on the Black Past and the Black Culture

This is a cornerstone of our Festival, offering insightful workshops, lectures, and exhibits that delve into ourstory and vibrant traditions. Join us to deepen your understanding, celebrate our heritage, and empower future generations through knowledge and cultural appreciation.

Inspiring the Next Generation

We believe in the power of education and creativity. Our arts and crafts workshops are designed to inspire and empower the next generation, helping young people connect with and appreciate their heritage.'

Where and When does Black OurStory Festival occur?

Date: 15th - 16th February 2025 
 22nd -  23rd February 2025

Time: 9am - 8pm

Venue: Coconut Groove Regency Hotel, Accra

Who can attend the festival?

The Black Our Story Festival welcomes everyone, with a special focus on Black individuals and communities. We also invite allies and advocates of Black culture to join us in celebrating and empowering the rich heritage and history of Black people.

  • FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
  • BREAK OUT SESSIONS
  • ACCOMODATION
  • THINGS TO NOTE

Coconut Grove Hotel

Located in Accra, 2.1 miles from Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Coconut Grove Regency Hotel provides accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center and a garden. Each room at the 3-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a terrace and to a hot tub. African, American, Caribbean and Dutch dishes are served at the on-site restaurant.

Visit their website contact CGH
COCONUT

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Founder Black Ourstory Festival

Founder Biography

Sherrie Donaldson-Thompson

Sherrie Donaldson-Thompson, affectionately known as Mama Loo, is a dynamic sanitation advocate and behavior change communication specialist.

Driven by her passion for impactful innovation, Sherrie founded Sun Shade Energy, earning the prestigious Negawatt award for energy efficiency in 2015. Her dedication to advancing solar technology continues as she seeks funding for prototype development.

Sherrie’s commitment to fostering economic growth in Africa is evident through her work with Intra Africa Connect, promoting intracontinental trade and supporting SMEs in leveraging opportunities within the AfCFTA framework.

In 2017, she was honored as a Made In Ghana brand ambassador, championing Ghanaian products and services on the global stage.

Sherrie is also a team lead in research of the Ghana Culture Forum. The Ghana Culture Forum (GCF) is a membership based civil society consultative forum. It is a network of cultural practitioners, activists and organizations.

Join us in celebrating Black culture at the Black Ourstory Festival, inspired by Sherrie's vision and dedication to community empowerment.

  • Brand Ambassador

    Promoting Made in Ghana products and services globally.

  • Negawatt Award

    Sun Shade Energy for energy efficiency in 2015

FESTIVAL PILLARS

Explore holistic health practices and wellness strategies that are integral to our community. Participate in yoga sessions, mental health workshops, and wellness talks designed to promote a balanced lifestyle.

Learn about the resilience and courage of our ancestors in the face of enslavement. Through storytelling, re-enactments, and educational exhibits, we honor their legacy and inspire future generations.

Discover the importance of sustainable agriculture and food security within our community. Attend workshops on urban farming, sustainable practices, and the significance of traditional foods.

Dance and music are at the heart of the Black Ourstory Festival, embodying the vibrant energy and rich traditions of our heritage. From the rhythmic beats of African drums to the soulful sounds of gospel and jazz, our Festival showcases a diverse range of musical genres that have influenced global culture.

Join us for live performances, dance workshops, and musical showcases that celebrate the creativity and resilience of black artists. Experience the power of dance and music to unite, uplift, and inspire our community.

Art and crafts are vital expressions of our cultural identity and creativity. At the Black Ourstory Festival, you will find a stunning array of artworks and handcrafted items that tell the stories of our past and present.

Explore art exhibitions featuring paintings, sculptures, and digital art from talented black artists. Participate in craft workshops where you can learn traditional techniques and create your own pieces.

Celebrate the beauty and diversity of black fashion. Enjoy fashion shows, textile exhibitions, and accessory markets showcasing the creativity and innovation of black designers.

Storytelling and film are powerful mediums for preserving and sharing our history. The Black Ourstory Festival offers a platform for filmmakers, authors, and storytellers to showcase their work and engage with audiences.

Attend film screenings, book readings, and storytelling sessions that highlight the experiences and contributions of black individuals and communities. Through these narratives, we honor our ancestors, reflect on our journey, and envision a future of possibility and hope.

At the Black Ourstory Festival, we celebrate the groundbreaking achievements and pioneering spirit of black innovators and inventors. Ourstory is marked by countless contributions that have shaped and continue to influence the world in profound ways.

Honoring the Past: Explore the stories of black inventors who defied the odds to create solutions and technologies that revolutionized industries. From George Washington Carver’s agricultural advancements to Garrett Morgan’s invention of the traffic signal, our exhibits will take you on a journey through the incredible ingenuity that has driven progress.

Inspiring the Future: Innovation is not just about the past; it’s about paving the way for future generations. Our festival features interactive workshops, panels, and demonstrations from contemporary black innovators in various fields, including technology, science, and the arts. These sessions aim to inspire attendees to think creatively and pursue their own inventive ideas.

Showcasing Modern Achievements: Discover how black inventors and entrepreneurs are shaping today’s world. Engage with cutting-edge technologies, sustainable solutions, and innovative products developed by black-led startups and companies. Our innovation hub is a space where you can learn about the latest advancements and meet the minds behind them.

Fostering Creativity and Collaboration: The Black Ourstory Festival is a platform for collaboration and creativity. We provide opportunities for budding inventors to connect with mentors, network with industry leaders, and showcase their work. Through hackathons, pitch competitions, and innovation labs, we encourage the next generation of black inventors to turn their visions into reality.

Join us in celebrating the spirit of innovation and invention which is a cornerstone of our community. Let’s honor our past, inspire our future, and continue to lead the way in creating a better world for all.

Event Schedule