Africa Day Celebrations

Lawrence Chitura, President of the Central Queensland African Association in Rockhampton, speaks to Hamish Sewell about: the association and how its membership grew organically; the experience of the African community in Australia as new migrants; the diversity of the African community and of those who settled in Rockhampton and surrounds (from cultural diversity to diversity in skill sets to expertise); the origins and evolution of the festival; what is involved in the festival and why it's run including showcasing diverse culture; support for the festival; the African diaspora; opportunities to grow the festival; bringing communities together, connecting communities and representing communities; and multicultural Australia.

Mildred Muzenda, Public Relations Liaison Officer of the Central Queensland African Association in Rockhampton, talks to Hamish Sewell about: her role in the organisation to assist refugees who've lived through traumatic experiences and negotiating various cultural protocols; the relationship with local councils; challenges for new arrivals; advocacy and Mildred's previous role in the United Nations; the diversity but also the unity of African cultures; Mildred's role in the festival; the initiatives to assist communities including educational endeavours; the importance of the festival; and establishing an African/ Australian culture.