World Africa Day
Published on 08 May 2026
Council will mark World Africa Day by hosting a range of community events throughout Footscray and Braybrook.
Libraries are offering curated book displays with enriching themes for a positive learning experience celebrating African culture.
Young people aged 12-25 are invited to celebrate World Africa Day with sports, music and culture on Friday 22 May, with an African drumming workshop hosted by Ray Pereira.
The Maribyrnong Youth weekly sports program Big Bang will host an African Fest, complete with music, cultural food and a social space to get active.
Parents and carers from culturally diverse communities are invited to a supported playgroup, and the FILLS after-school program will include an afternoon tea and themed crafting activities.
World Africa Day events reflect Council’s commitment to celebrating our multicultural community, and form part of Council’s Intercultural Strategy 2023-26.
“The City of Maribyrnong is one of the most diverse communities in our country. Our greatest asset is strength in diversity, and making sure it is valued, respected and celebrated. We are proud to recognise our multicultural community by creating a sense of belonging through community events,” said Maribyrnong Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra.
Acknowledging and celebrating World Africa day is a way to commemorate the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May in 1963 in Addis Adaba, Ethiopia which aims to promote unity and solidarity among African nations.
Event details
Friday 22 May, 3.30-6pm
Big Bang Youth Events: Sports Program
Braybrook Community Hub
This free drop-in session for young people aged 12 to 25 is a chance to get involved in a variety team sports, and socialise while enjoying African music and cultural food.
More information: Visit our Phoenix Youth Hub website
Friday 22 May
Maribyrnong Youth African Drumming Workshop
Pheonix Youth Hub: The Bunker
Young people aged 12 to 25 can learn traditional African drumming with experienced teacher, Ray Pereira. Play as a group, explore rhythm, movement and expression in a practical, free drop-in session. No experience is required.
Monday 25 – Friday 29 May
Curated, World Africa Day Library Book Display
All libraries will offer a variety of curated, book displays to celebrate World Africa Day. Everyone is welcome to browse, read and borrow from the librarian selected cultural themes.
Thursday 28 May 10am – 12pm
Multicultural Playgroup: Morning tea and cultural activities
Braybrook Community Hub
MacKillop Family Services’ Multicultural Supported Playgroup provides an environment where parents and carers from culturally diverse communities can meet to participate in activities that encourage their child's development and social skills. A morning tea to celebrate World Africa Day will take place on 28 May.
To book, please call or text 0427 703 582 or email RegionalParentingService@mackillop.org.au
Friday 29 May, 4-5.30pm
FILLS program (after school program): crafting activities and afternoon tea
Braybrook Community Hub
FILLS is a homework club where everyone in the family is welcome. The program runs on Fridays during school term. Join us on 29 May for afternoon tea to celebrate World Africa Day and African themed crafting activities.
If you would like to volunteer or bring your child, please email us your details to braycomm@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
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