Nosa Guobadia saw something missing in Winnipeg’s vibrant arts scene — an absence that struck him deeply. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * Nosa Guobadia saw something missing in Winnipeg’s vibrant arts scene — an absence that struck him deeply. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? Nosa Guobadia saw something missing in Winnipeg’s vibrant arts scene — an absence that struck him deeply.
“As an artist myself, I saw a huge gap and felt there should be a space for African artists in Winnipeg,” says the Nigerian-born Guobadia, who performs as Cozymannos. The realization dawned on him at last year’s Soca Reggae Festival when he noticed that the audience was predominantly African, despite the event’s Caribbean focus. “It hit me then.
It made me think that we need a festival that truly celebrates African artists — not just as performers, but as the heartbeat of the event,” he says. This spark of inspiration led Guobadia to create the Afro Fall Festival, a celebration born from his determination to fill that void. “Last year was about testing the waters, but this year, we’re going all out — a proper celebration of our culture and our artists,” says the 25-year-old Afro beats artist.
The 2024 festival is set to be an expanded showcase of African and African-inspired arts, featuring live music performances, an art exhibition and a market at the St. Norbert Arts Centr.