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[Discover CIVIS Alliance ](https://civis.eu/en/discover-civis-alliance) 2. [Our work ](https://civis.eu/en/discover-civis-alliance/our-work) 3. [Student-led projects ](https://civis.eu/en/discover-civis-alliance/our-work/student-led-projects) 4. [Discover the projects led by our students in 2024-2025 ](https://civis.eu/en/discover-civis-alliance/our-work/student-led-projects/discover-our-student-projects-2025) 5. Afro Market: Celebrating African Cultures and Decolonial Perspectives Afro Market: Celebrating African Cultures and Decolonial Perspectives ======================================================================= *Photo credits: CIVIS communication unit* ### An immersive initiative by Binabi at Université libre de Bruxelles **From the heart of Brussels to the spirit of the African continent**, **Afro Market** a bold, semester-long initiative invited the public to engage with the richness of African cultures and the urgency of decolonial thought. Organised by **Binabi**, **the African cultural circle at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB),** this unique programme brought together academic insight, artistic expression, and grassroots activism to reflect on Africa’s past, present, and future. The project featured a wide range of onsite events including conferences, film screenings, workshops, and exhibitions. Highlights included a ***conference on the role of women in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo conflict, a screening of Soundtrack to a Coup d'État, a discussion between Senegalese students from UCAD and members of the diaspora, and the vibrant Afro-Entrepreneurs Exhibition—a market-style showcase of Afro-descendant businesses***. Afro Market encouraged critical dialogue around Europe’s historical and ongoing role in Africa, amplifying African voices and experiences within European academic spaces. Meet the team behind the project --------------------------------- Afro Market was the brainchild of **Patrick Kalas-Mijimbu**, a leading member of Binabi and an advocate for African visibility in higher education. **Binabi** is a student-led initiative based at ULB, dedicated to exploring and promoting African cultural identity, critical thought, and diasporic solidarity. The project was enriched by a powerful constellation of partners: - **Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Belgium** – the host university and home base of Binabi - **Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Spain** – students contributed perspectives on racism, integration, and lived experience - **Université Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD), Senegal** – student representatives collaborated in intercontinental discussions - **African entrepreneurs and guest speakers** – who shared stories of creativity, resilience, and innovation Together, these collaborators formed a transnational network committed to reshaping conversations around Africa, identity, and resistance. Who is Afro Market for? ------------------------ This initiative was open to anyone interested in African cultures and decolonial thought, particularly: - **Students at ULB** - **Members of the African diaspora living in Belgium** - **Entrepreneurs, business professionals, and creators** - **Researchers, educators, activists, and anyone passionate about Africa’s place in global discussions** Whether attending for academic insight, cultural connection, or entrepreneurial inspiration, Afro Market offered something for every participant. Context and purpose: Decolonizing university spaces ---------------------------------------------------- Afro Market formed part of a broader effort to **decolonize university spaces and create room for African perspectives in European academic institutions.** It aligned with **Binabi’s** mission to challenge Eurocentric narratives and make visible the histories, voices, and futures of African and Afro-diasporic communities. In an era where global power dynamics are being increasingly questioned, Afro Market fostered understanding, activism, and community-building. It served as a platform for young people to rethink identity, history, and solidarity—shaping the conversations that will continue to define Africa’s future. Why it matters: What participants gain? ---------------------------------------- By taking part in Afro Market, attendees had the chance to: - **Learn from African entrepreneurs, scholars, and changemakers** - **Develop a nuanced understanding of African cultural and political dynamics** - **Build networks across continents and communities** - **Support Afro-descendant businesses and cultural creators** - **Contribute to inclusive, decolonial learning spaces** This wasn’t just an event series—it was a transformative experience aimed at building bridges and inspiring critical thought. Key dates and events --------------------- Afro Market spanned the second semester of the academic year 2024-2025, with a strong focus on activities throughout **April and early May 2025**. All events took place onsite at ULB and were free and open to the public: - **April 7** – **Dialogue and discussion:** UCAD students met the Afro-Belgian diaspora - **April 9** – **Conference:** The Role of Women in the Eastern DRC Conflict - **April 15** – **Screening and discussion:** *Soundtrack to a Coup d'État* - **May 3** – **Afro-Entrepreneurs Exhibition** – a vibrant market showcasing Afro-descendant business and innovation Practical information ---------------------- - **Languages:** French and English (some discussions included Spanish) - **Participation:** Open to the public, free of charge - **Contact Person:** **Patrick Kalas-Mijimbu:** patrick.kalasmijimbu@ulb.be | [patrickclark.kalas@gmail.com](http://patrickclark.kalas@gmail.com) - **Follow Us:** [@binabi\_ulb on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/binabi_ulb) Afro Market successfully brought together community, culture, and critical reflection in a celebration of African identity and resistance. It marked a powerful step forward in honouring African cultures and advancing decolonial conversations within European academia. ![CIVIS – Europe’s Civic University Alliance](https://civis.eu/build/assets/civis-CCpvK1nT.svg) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Europe’s Civic University Alliance ![Co-funded by the European Union](https://civis.eu/build/assets/co-funded-by-the-european-union-DSKLW1us.png)Views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). 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