Five Star Women of Color, Inc.
About
"AFRO CULTURAL FESTIVAL"
Presented By Five Star Women of Color, Inc.
A Cultural Tradition in the Making
Afro Cultural Festival is a community-rooted cultural celebration honoring the global influence and enduring impact of the African Diaspora.
Created to bring meaningful, visible cultural programming to Baltimore County, the festival centers heritage, entrepreneurship, education, and unity in one powerful annual gathering.
This is more than a festival.
It is a declaration of presence, contribution, and legacy.
Our Story
Afro Cultural Festival was founded by Shalewa Nyanza with a clear vision: culture belongs in every community.
While neighboring cities host large-scale celebrations honoring African, Caribbean, and African American traditions, Baltimore County historically lacked a central gathering that reflected the richness of the Diaspora in a visible, celebratory way.
Afro Cultural Festival was created to fill that gap.
What began as a bold community initiative has grown into an annual event that welcomes families, entrepreneurs, artists, leaders, and youth into a shared space of pride and cultural recognition.
From its inception, the festival has remained free and open to the public — ensuring that culture is not restricted by economic barriers, but accessible to all.
Our Mission
To celebrate, preserve, and amplify the cultural, economic, and historical contributions of the African Diaspora while creating inclusive spaces for education, entrepreneurship, and connection.
Our Vision
A Baltimore County where cultural heritage is visible, celebrated, and supported and where Black-owned businesses, creatives, and families thrive together in shared community spaces.
What Makes Afro Cultural Festival Distinct
Afro Cultural Festival is intentionally curated to reflect both celebration and purpose.
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Diaspora-centered programming that honors African, Caribbean, and African American traditions
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A curated Black-owned business marketplace that circulates dollars within the community
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High-quality entertainment paired with cultural education
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A family-friendly, accessible experience
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Community partnerships that expand opportunity and representation
This is culture with structure.
Celebration with intention.
Economic & Community Impact
Afro Cultural Festival serves as both a cultural celebration and an economic engine.
The festival:
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Provides revenue generating opportunities for small businesses
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Increases local foot traffic and community engagement
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Creates platforms for youth performers and emerging creatives
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Strengthens cross-cultural understanding within Baltimore County
Each year, the festival continues to grow expanding its reach, partnerships, and impact.
Produced by Five Star Women of Color
Afro Cultural Festival is a signature initiative of Five Star Women of Color, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to leadership development, economic empowerment, and educational advancement.
Five Star Women of Color works year-round to create spaces where women, families, and entrepreneurs can access knowledge, build confidence, and strengthen economic stability.
The festival represents one of its largest public-facing community celebrations advancing its mission to uplift culture, cultivate leadership, and invest in long-term community growth.