Ankara Festival 2014 Los Angeles California

The Ankara Festival (AFLA) 2014 was held on Saturday, September 6th at the Belasco Theater, Los Angeles, California. The annual event promotes African culture, entertainment and modern arts. It's also an outlet for people to showcase their products, talents, talk about their humanitarian services, and many more. A great avenue that attracts several young enterpreneurs and role models.

The festival is one of the largest celebrations of African fashion, culture, heritage, music, dance and art in Los Angeles, California. This year's event, marks the 5th anniversary of the amazing show that features fashion designers from different parts of the world. The mission of AFLA is also geared towards providing the community an all African experience; thus promoting goodwill.

As a result of AFLA popularity, it draws the interest of both local and international particpants which include: fashion designers, musicians, dancers, comedians and actors.

With Sierra Leonean, Duain Richmond best known as FELA! on Broadway and Nigerian comedian, Yvonne Orji as the hosts of the special course, it was a very colorful night with upscale attires, flaboyant style, colorful african print, fancy hairdos and makeup on the red carpet and the run-way. A true African theme indeed. The presenters, models and entertainers all looked amazing.

While the 4th annivery was held last year at the Avalon in Hollywood, California, this year's event was held at the Belasco Theater, Los Angeles, California. It was a memorable event with a huge turnout just like last year's.

Nubi Collections (Ethiopia, Sudan), Kahindo Mateene (Congo DRC), Edentity by Nionekaly Ba (Sengal), Erica Varize (Uganda, California), Chidex Designs(Nigeria), Christina Lowanga, Ankara Fashions and Dewan Apparel showcased at this year's event.

There were many entertainers on the stage 'doing their thing' such as dancing, rapping and singing. But, Nigerian artist, Harry Song who came all the way from Nigeria, wowed the audience with his hit songs; 'Mandela', 'Beta Pikin','Kolombo and 'Fine Girl.'

Mr. Chike Nweke, leader of the 'Bring Back Our Girls' movement in Southern California reminded the audience about the Nigerian missing school girls and urged everyone to pray for their safe return.

The brain behind AFLA is Peter “Lentini” Efezohae (Founder and Creative Director) and his team Bimpe Efezohae (Wife to Lentini, Co-founder and Executive Director), Dunnie Onasanya (Events Producer and Public Relations), Demola Ogunnaike (Co-Director).

Toms and MUD were some of the major sponsors of AFLA 2014.

For more pictures from the event, click on Mon's Pick's 'Life & Style' section under 'Events' category.