The excitement is palpable as the countdown to the New England Ghana Festival (NEGFest) 2024 begins. This landmark event, scheduled from Friday, September 6 to Sunday, September 8, 2024, in the USA, is set to be a vibrant celebration of Ghanaian heritage and culture.
Under the auspices of the Ghana Heritage Foundation, in partnership with the Honorary Ghana Consulate in Massachusetts, the US-Ghana Embassy, Worcester State University, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Ghana Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Ghana Tourism Authority, Nananom, local churches, and the entire Ghanaian community in New England, NEGFest 2024 promises an unforgettable inaugural edition.
The festival's theme, "Sankofa; Embracing Our Heritage, Connecting Our Past," resonates with the spirit of returning to one's roots, celebrating Ghanaian identity, and fostering connections across generations of the diaspora.
In an exclusive interview, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Ghana to Worcester, Massachusetts, Hon. Ken Asafo-Adjei, who is also the CEO of the Ghana Heritage Foundation, shared insights into the festival's organization. He highlighted that NEGFest 2024 is primarily organized by Ghanaian volunteers who are dedicated to creating new opportunities for Ghanaians and Africans and establishing symbolic cultural identities.
The Ghana Heritage Foundation, a non-profit organization, is committed to empowering the Ghanaian community in New England. Its vision encompasses fostering cultural identity, economic prosperity, education, and social cohesion among Ghanaians in the region, with a focus on community engagement, development, and policy advocacy.
Ken Asafo-Adjei extends an invitation to all Ghanaians and the diaspora community to attend and support NEGFest 2024 in large numbers.
"NEGFest 2024 is a call to celebrate Ghanaian heritage, unity, and pride. We invite everyone to stay tuned for further updates and prepare for a historic weekend of cultural immersion and connection," he stated.
Below is the full calendar of NEGFest 2024
Day One: Friday, September 6, 2024
Morning Session:
Business Entrepreneurship Network
There is a common saying that the life of an entrepreneur can be isolating, especially when you don't have a well-established support system in place.
One way to overcome this challenge is by reaching out to and building connections with other successful entrepreneurs, both locally and globally.
Through business engagements with top Ghanaian and African Diaspora Entrepreneurs, we can bridge the gap between our respective networks and foster meaningful relationships that lead to growth and success.
Time: 9: 00 am – 12:00 pm
Venue: Worcester State University
Evening Session: Friday, September 6, 2024
Experience a blend of education and entertainment as Ghanaian youth aged 18 to 30 showcase traditional, festival, and fashion elements, alongside food and a series of cultural displays.
Also, join us for the NEGFest 24's Beauty Pageant, in which we will be celebrating and exhibiting true Ghanaian culture including comedy, poetry and so much more.
Time: 6:00 pm – 12:00 am
Venue: Worcester State University
Day Two: Saturday, September 7, 2024
Morning Session: Durbar
Experience the grandeur of Ghanaian culture at the Durbar, featuring a majestic parade led by local chieftains and queen mothers adorned in lavish attire.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, captivating performances, and tantalizing flavors of regional cuisine as the essence of Ghana comes to life. Dress in your best African attire and be part of this extraordinary celebration.
Time: 9:00 am – 5: 00 pm
Venue: Worcester State University
Dress Code: Anything African
Evening Session: Kente Dance
As the sun sets, the festivities continue with the electrifying Kente Dance, showcasing the beauty and tradition of one of Ghana's most iconic fabrics.
Dance to the rhythmic beats of highlife music performed live by talented Ghanaian artists, and revel in the colorful energy of this cultural extravaganza.
*Time: 6:00 pm – 1:00 am
Day Three: Sunday, September 8, 2024
Get Ready For An Exciting Soccer Games Among Other Engaging Activities.
A Ghanaian Premier League Club Is Billed To Play An Exhibition Match Against A Football Club In Connecticut
Time: 3pm
Venue: Trinity Health Stadium
Stay tuned for more details!
NEGFest 2024.....
Sankofa; Embracing Our Heritage, Connecting Our Past!!!!!