Afrochella- A Visual Story
Afrochella in Accra, Ghana entered its third year and it was bigger and better than ever.
Imagine a safe place for black people to congregate, party and celebrate the “Year Of Return.” Afro Beats, hiphop and house music pumped through the speakers, hips wined, feet ZankUEd, while jollof rice, gangja and shea butter aroused the senses. A feeling of pride was felt as the parade of “blackety black black” people Showcasing their finest African print and natural hairstyles commenced nonstop!
The diaspora united in Accra, Ghana and we were able to witness it!
What a time to be alive!
What is Afrochella?
Afrochella is a yearly one-day festival in Accra, Ghana celebrating Africa's diverse culture. The festival features cuisine, contemporary art, music, creatives and entrepreneurs from Africa. This years festival was special because it featured the theme “Diaspora Calling,” aligning with Ghana’s “Year of Return ” 2019 initiative to mark the 400th anniversary of the arrival of enslaved Africans to North America in 1619, and encourages those of African descent to make the journey back home.
Photos taken by Monique Spearman unless otherwise noted
What I Wore
My look for Afrochella was inspired by East and South African Culture. The head wrap and jewelry was reminiscent of East African brides, while the gold wooden beaded handmade vest was designed by TruFaceBygrace, a Ghanian jewelry, accessories, and apparel brand, rooted in African heritage, traditions and culture. Handmade in South Africa, this beaded vest is called Malkia Mzuri meaning “Beautiful Queen” in Swahili.
Malkia Mzuri Wooden Beads Handmade Vest by trufacebygrace
Adorned in gold from head to toe, I was a beautiful African Queen returning to the place where my ancestors once walked!
Head wrap and jewelry inspired by East African Brides.