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

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.