Culture experts and enthusiasts have applauded the Africa Day 2026 Cultural Hangout Festival held in Manchester last weekend.

The event brought  together speakers, artists, entrepreneurs, and community

stakeholders for a day focused on culture, heritage, tourism, and international

collaboration.

Hosted at the Crowne Plaza Manchester City Centre, the event provided a platform

for dialogue on how cultural assets can support destination promotion, economic

development, and stronger relationships between African and UK communities.

The event was organised by Aihawu Victor, Founder and CEO of the Cultural

Hangout Festival, who welcomed guests and spoke about the importance of

preserving cultural identity while creating opportunities for future generations.

“We often celebrate culture through food, fashion, and entertainment, but culture is

also a powerful tool for education, tourism, business, and community development,”Victor said during his presentation.

One of the highlights of the day was a discussion session that brought together

speakers from both Nigeria and the United Kingdom to share perspectives on

tourism, culture, and destination development.

Representing Badagry Local Government in Lagos State, Ms. Avoseh-Akwe

Senami Oluwakemi, Council Manager, spoke on Tourism as a Tool for Local

Economic Development. Drawing from the experiences of Badagry, a town known for

its rich history and cultural significance, she explained how communities can benefit

when heritage is properly preserved and promoted.

Another speaker, Careen Joseph, explored opportunities for collaboration between

African and UK destinations. Her presentation focused on how cultural partnerships,

tourism exchanges, and shared projects can create stronger connections between

communities on both sides.

Aihawu Victor also delivered a presentation on ‘The Role of Culture and Heritage in

Destination Promotion’, encouraging participants to see cultural assets not simply as symbols of the past but as valuable resources for education, tourism, and economic development.

Away from the discussion sessions, the atmosphere throughout the day reflected the diversity and creativity of Africa. Guests enjoyed live music, drumming, instrumental

performances, cultural displays, and opportunities to interact with businesses and creative entrepreneurs showcasing their work.

Performing artists added energy and excitement to the festival, creating moments that brought people together through rhythm, storytelling, and shared cultural

experiences. For many attendees, the event was more than a celebration. It was an opportunity to reconnect with heritage, build new relationships, and explore ideas that could lead tofuture partnerships and projects.

The festival was delivered with support from partners including CareersBar, Reftop

Homes Ltd, and the Centre for Youths Integrated Development (CYID).

As the day came to a close, participants left with new contacts, fresh perspectives,

and a renewed appreciation for the role culture can play in bringing people together

across borders.

The Cultural Hangout Festival continues to grow as a platform that connects culture

with education, tourism, enterprise, and community development, creating spaces

where heritage is celebrated while new opportunities are created for the future.