Cross River Positions for Global Spotlight with Caribbean Diaspora Homecoming

Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM), Prince Otu Okor, has reaffirmed the State’s readiness to host over 300 Caribbean diasporans for the forthcoming Nigeria Homecoming Convention, describing it as a defining moment that will showcase Cross River’s global potential.

The Homecoming Convention, jointly organised by the Cross River State Government and the Global United Christian Community African Diaspora (GUCCAD) Nigeria, is scheduled to hold from 12 to 20 October 2025 in Calabar. The event is expected to reconnect descendants of Africa with their ancestral roots while exploring investment and tourism opportunities across the State.

Speaking during a Homecoming Cluster meeting held at the CRIDCOM office in Calabar, Prince Okor lauded the dedication of stakeholders and described the group as a vibrant blend of innovation and commitment. “This is the best cluster so far because it brings together all sectors working as one family,” he said. “Tourism, culture, information, business and media are all here, and that is what makes us stronger. We are determined to make Cross River the heartbeat of this homecoming experience.”

He reaffirmed that CRIDCOM remained fully committed to delivering a world-class hosting, stressing that the Homecoming Convention offers Cross River a golden opportunity to tell its story to the world. According to him, the event goes beyond celebration; it is a statement of identity, unity, and pride in the State’s cultural and human capital.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Dr Gabe Onah explained that the engagement followed the directive of His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, who has shown strong commitment to the initiative. “His Excellency has asked that we open our doors and hearts to our brothers and sisters returning from the Caribbean,” he said. “They are coming not just as guests but as partners and investors ready to engage with our communities and explore the vast opportunities our State offers.”

In his contributions, Prof. Edward Ntui Okey commended the pace of preparation and urged the committees to maintain their drive. “This project has the potential to position Cross River as a leading destination for diaspora engagement in Africa,” he said. “We have made encouraging progress, but we must sustain the tempo until the very end.”

On the cultural front, His Royal Highness Etubom Architect B. Ndem, who oversees the traditional and heritage segment of the homecoming, said his team was fully prepared to receive the guests. “We are ready for the 300 visitors coming,” he said. “From the rites and privileges to the masquerade displays, it will be an emotional ceremony, a moment for them to reconnect with their heritage in the most profound way.”

Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang, highlighted the importance of strategic communication ahead of the event. “We need a well-written itinerary that captures the essence of what we are doing,” he noted. “Once that is ready, my office will take the lead in promoting it effectively so that the message of Cross River’s readiness reaches both national and international audiences.”

On her part, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Mrs Eme Afiah, proposed the inclusion of Kwa Falls in the tour itinerary. “Kwa Falls should be part of the schedule,” she said. “It is the nearest natural site and represents one of the most beautiful expressions of nature we can showcase to our visitors.”

Stakeholders further agreed that the visiting diasporans will participate in the Carnival Calabar Dry Run, offering them a chance to experience the parades and festivities as part of a cultural exchange that highlights the warmth and hospitality of Cross River State.

CRIDCOM MEDIA 2025

FRIDAY THE 3RD OF OCTOBER 2025 was a very special day at The Banqueting Hall, City Hall in Bradford .

It was the GRADUATION CEREMONY for our amazing students who had just completed OUR PURPOSEFUL DRIVEN PUBLIC SPEAKING COURSE inspired by BRADFORD BASED DR SOHAIL AHMED.

It was a journey which had embraced weeks of hard-work, resilience , dedication and new chapters of fear .

This journey had opened new doors of friendship, collaboration, passion and the will to confront new layers of fear and challenges .

ON BEHALF OF ARICA4U ASSOCIAITION CIC AND BRADFORD 4 BETTER– We would like to congratulate our recent graduates for making us proud.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING ROLE MODELS

Inayah Sher a proud Bradford activist, transforms personal adversity into a mission for justice, resilience, and community change. From challenging child betrothal to leading campaigns like banning fireworks for public safety, she stands as a powerful voice for love, equality, and the belief that it is never too late to rise and lead.

*Faisal Mohammed*, a Bradford-born structural engineer and building inspector, is dedicated to ensuring safety, integrity, and excellence in every project he oversees. Beyond his profession, he is a passionate community advocate and volunteer, inspiring others with his vision to uplift communities and empower people worldwide to unlock their greatness.

Joy Josephine a proud Malawian raised in Bradford, is a community champion, NHS Research Associate, and entrepreneur whose ventures celebrate resilience, culture, and connection. Guided by faith and driven by fairness, justice, and empathy, she uses storytelling and action to inspire communities toward respect, inclusion, and lasting change.

*Farhana Pandor is a skilled Financial Controller and accountant with over a decade of experience, helping businesses find clarity, confidence, and growth in their finances. A proud Muslim woman, mother, and advocate of holistic living, she inspires others through her blend of resilience, positivity, and purpose-driven approach to both work and life.

Nana Abena Owusuwaa Hagan is a visionary leader, international business strategist, and passionate advocate for social transformation. As founder of SHOFT CIC and creator of initiatives like EM3RGE and Igniting Dreams, she empowers communities, uplifts women and youth, and breaks barriers on global stages—blending faith, leadership, and purpose to inspire lasting change.

Osakwe Nonyelum Esther is a dynamic author, psychotherapist, pastor, and CEO of Life Improvement Consults CIC, dedicated to transforming lives through faith, coaching, and mindset mastery. With over 15 years of experience, she inspires confidence, resilience, and purpose—empowering audiences to not just learn, but to thrive.

*Leonie Shaw-Brown* is an accountant, lawyer, community advocate, and inspirational speaker whose journey of resilience fuels her fight for racial justice and equality. As Director of Windrush Advocacy and Community Alliance CIC, she amplifies unheard voices, empowers communities, and calls audiences to stand strong, speak truth, and drive lasting change.

Sergeant Donna – – Manchester based service manager with over 35 years experience

Calling All Visionary Investors!

Cross River State is opening its doors to the world and you are invited to be part of the transformation.

Join us at the Cross River State Diaspora Investment Summit 2025, taking place November 17th–19th in London, UK. This landmark event is your gateway to high-impact opportunities in one of Nigeria’s most dynamic and resource-rich states. 

Come and see the high impact feasibility and viability of ongoing projects like the Bakassi Deep Seaport, Calabar – Ogoja Railway, Obudu International Cargo Airport, the Bakassi Real Estate Water Front, The Cross River State Information and Communication Technology Data Center etc. 

Why Attend?

– Discover untapped investment potential across agriculture, tourism, tech, and infrastructure

– Connect with top government officials, diaspora entrepreneurs, and global business leaders.

– Explore incentives and strategic partnerships tailored for sustainable growth.

– Be part of a movement to reshape the future of Cross River through innovation and capital.

 Location: London, UK

 Dates: November 17th–19th, 2025

 Theme: Unlocking Opportunities and Driving Sustainable Growth with the People’s First Agenda of Senator Prince Bassey Otu.

Whether you are a seasoned investor or exploring new frontiers, this summit offers a rare chance to align profit with purpose.

 Register here: https://cridcom.crossriverstate.gov.ng/crs-investment-summit

 For partnership inquiries: ignatius.oli@cridcom.crossriverstate.gov.ng or justin.udie@adahx.com

Let’s build the future together. 

#InvestCrossRiver 

#CRIDCOM2025 

#DiasporaInvestmentSummit 

#AfricaRising

Donna Sergeant 

Donna Sergeant aka Dee Ess is a proud mother of two, a social innovator, and Service Manager for a children’s mental health charity. With over 35 years’ experience working with children, young people, and families, she has recently become a director of a community interest company, extending her commitment to creating lasting social change.

She is the creator of Love Doesn’t Forget: a podcast and upcoming book that blends storytelling with practical guidance around dementia, memory, and family love from a Black British perspective. Dee is also developing Tech Together, an intergenerational project that reflects her passion for innovative, culturally rooted solutions.

  NIGERIA HOUSE BRADFORD   will be one of the award recipients at OUR AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS AND CARIBBEANS LIVING IN YORKSHIRE taking place this Friday the 3rd of October at The Banqueting Hall, City Hall, Bradford at 5.30pm .

INFORMATION ABOUT NIGERIA HOUSE BRADFORD  CAN BE FOUND BELOW

At Nigeria-House, we proudly celebrate the rich heritage of African textiles and fashion. As a premier destination for authentic African clothing and fabrics, we curate a diverse selection that showcases the vibrant culture and artistry of Nigeria. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and sustainable practices sets us apart in the industry, as we strive to bring you not just products but stories woven into each piece. With a vision to empower local artisans, Nigeria-House fosters creativity while promoting traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. We invite you to explore our collection and experience the essence of Africa in every garment you wear.

65 Market St, Bradford BD1 1NE

JOACHIM KEKE    will be one of the award recipients at OUR AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS AND CARIBBEANS LIVING IN YORKSHIRE taking place this Friday the 3rd of October at The Banqueting Hall, City Hall, Bradford at 5.30pm .

Joachim Keke: Dancing Between Cultures, Creating Across Borders.

In the heart of Bradford’s evolving cultural landscape, few artists embody the blend of bold tradition and modern expression like Joachim Keke A dancer, theatre artist, community facilitator and cultural visionary, Joachim has spent the last two years carving a path that not only showcases his craft, but also uplifts voices too often silenced especially those of Black and African heritage.

With roots in theatre and a deep devotion to African culture, Joachim’s performances are not just entertainment—they are living, moving conversations. As a creative and performing artist with Common Wealth Theatre, he has featured in multiple groundbreaking works which includes. “IN COMMON” a citizen-assembly-inspired piece reflecting on social inequality; “STILL WAITING”, a bold and necessary commission from Healthy Minds/Bradford and Craven NHS, addressing raw realities of mental health through immersive performance, “IDENTITY” a deeply personal dance showcase exploring identity and adaptation in unfamiliar spaces as well as working on research and development and co-devising elements of current

work, “PUBLIC INTREST”, which premiered in May 2025, and is part of Bradford

UK City of Culture’s programme

His ability to blend movement with meaning has made him more than just a performer—he’s a facilitator of dialogue. As a **Youth Lab Coordinator with common wealth and **freelance youth theatre director** with **Parkview Youth Theatre (Northern Broadsides) Joachim has supported directing performances such a “Brainstorm” and “Iron man” respectively, mentoring young voices, offering platforms for expression, connection, and healing through performance.

But his reach doesn’t stop at the stage. During **Black History Month**, Joachim co-led the **Black Heritage Day** at the University of Bradford, creating a rich tapestry of indigenous African fashion, music, and dance—an offering to the community, and a powerful reclaiming of identity.

Currently, Joachim is co-choreographing and performing in *So Far So Good*, a tender and humorous piece celebrating the freedom and joy of older adults. He has also contributed to performances at the **Men Porch Awards**, addressing men’s mental health, and the **ABA Gala Night**, where his rousing interpretation of *Still I Rise*—inspired by Maya Angelou—brought the audience to their feet.

Looking ahead, Joachim continues to expand his artistry, with an upcoming **aerial performance commissioned by Bradford 2025** in Shipley and new collaborations with **Brave** , BAFA and other creative platforms on the horizon.

In addition to his UK-based work, Joachim brings a rich legacy from Nigeria. As Artistic Director at Touche Imperium, he led creative direction on numerous theatre productions. With Thespian Family Theatre, he graced major stages, and during his time as a Drama Teacher at Helen O’ Grady Drama Academy, he used movement-led, student-focused methods to ignite youth participation.

Driven by a desire to **celebrate African culture** and fuelled by a love for performance, Joachim’s work connects heritage with hope. He is not just telling stories—he is building bridges, challenging norms, and reminding us all of the beauty in movement, memory, and identity.

For enquiries or collaborations:[joachimkeke@gmail.com

KENZIE JAYNE   will be one of the award recipients at OUR AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS AND CARIBBEANS LIVING IN YORKSHIRE taking place this Friday the 3rd of October at The Banqueting Hall, City Hall, Bradford at 5.30pm .

INFORMATION ABOUT KENZIE JAYNE AND HER INITIATIVE CAN BE FOUND BELOW

Blvck Ic3 is a multidisciplinary artist, dancer, musician, and DJ based in Bradford, UK. With roots in classical dance training and a passion for community empowerment, their creative journey blends movement, music, and storytelling into bold, socially conscious expression.

Beginning their dance training at just three years old with the Dewhirst School of Dance through the National Association of Teachers of Dance (NATD), they studied Ballet and Tap before expanding into Modern, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Jazz, Street Dance, and Commercial styles. By age 10, they had completed the NATD Rainbow Award and received a trophy from Craig Revel Horwood for their performance.

At 15, Blvck Ic3 began exploring music production and DJing, quickly gaining local recognition performing across venues in Bradford. Their original music, first released in 2024, delves into themes of mental health, self-worth, social boundaries, and creative freedom.

In addition to their artistic practice, they are passionate about youth and community work. After earning a Level 2 qualification in Youth Work in 2022, they launched Steppers, a community dance initiative with groups for youth aged 12 and under, 12 and over, and adults—providing a platform for expression, movement, and confidence-building.

Blvck Ic3 continues to break boundaries across disciplines, inspiring others through both personal artistry and collective action.

BABES OF THE MOST HIGH   will be one of the award recipients at OUR AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS AND CARIBBEANS LIVING IN YORKSHIRE taking place this Friday the 3rd of October at The Banqueting Hall, City Hall, Bradford at 5.30pm .

INFORMATION ABOUT BABES OF THE MOST HIGH CAN BE FOUND BELOW

Babes of the Most High is a notable community initiative that focuses on empowering women and addressing issues affecting them. Here are some of the key roles and contributions of the organization within the community:

1. Empowerment and Education: The initiative offers programs aimed at educating women and girls about their rights, health, and personal development. This includes workshops, seminars, and training sessions that enhance skills and knowledge.

2. Support Network: Babes of the Most High provides a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and support each other. This fosters a sense of community and belonging among members.

3. Mental Health Awareness: The organization raises awareness about mental health issues and provides resources and support for women struggling with mental health challenges. This is particularly crucial in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in many communities.

4. Community Service: Babes of the Most High engages in community service projects, such as organizing health fairs, food drives, and mentorship programs for young women and girls. This strengthens community ties and addresses immediate needs.

5. Leadership Development: The organization encourages women to take on leadership roles within the community. Through mentorship and training, it aims to cultivate future leaders who can advocate for women’s issues.

6. Cultural Awareness: The initiative often incorporates cultural aspects, promoting positive representation and celebrating the diverse backgrounds of its members. This fosters inclusivity and appreciation for different cultures within the community

7. Partnerships: Collaborating with other organizations, businesses, and local governments to amplify their impact. These partnerships help in resource mobilization and outreach efforts.

8. Spiritual Guidance and Empowerment: We offer spiritual mentorship to women, helping them grow in faith and in their personal relationship with God. Through Bible studies, prayer groups, and faith-based gatherings, the group could empower women to navigate life with a faith-driven mindset. By nurturing spiritual growth, the group fosters a stronger sense of moral and ethical values within the community. This can lead to a more compassionate, supportive, and closely-knit community that upholds these values.

Through these roles, Babes of the Most High plays a significant part in enhancing the well-being of women and the community at large, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Mr Martin Scott  will be one of the award recipients at OUR AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS AND CARIBBEANS LIVING IN YORKSHIRE taking place this Friday the 3rd of October at The Banqueting Hall, City Hall, Bradford at 5.30pm .

INFORMATION ABOUT MARTIN SCOTT CAN BE FOUND BELOW

Martin Scott short bio.

My name is Martin Scott. I am a member of the Bradford Black History Committee, which is chaired by Nigel Guy MBE.

I am a Black African Caribbean Teacher of 24 years with an MA in Education. My action research approach studies focused on the effectiveness of Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning in educational settings.

I try to include and explore these issues in theatrical pieces, prose, music and films that I create. I am also a self taught musician and a member of the Leeds music house gospel choir.I have collaborated with various musicians in Bradford and Leeds on multiple projects.

I have also created a mini documentary called ‘Seeing with imagination’ which reflects on members of Bradford’s Black Caribbean community and the way they have overcome trauma through connection with the wider community.

I am currently working as a humanities teacher in Bradford at a school located in a definitively deprived area. In my opinion, for the students to know how to build bridges, cultural capital and an expression of their ideas and emotions outside of their own cultural references is needed.

I have a passion for trying to encourage unheard voices opportunities to be heard and understood. My belief is that it will help Bradford to grow into an even better artistically active and engaged multicultural city.

#blackachievers #blackteacher #bradford2025 #cityofculture2025

Mr Akinwale Ogundipe will be one of the award recipients at OUR AFRICA4U AWARDS FOR AFRICANS AND CARIBBEANS LIVING IN YORKSHIRE taking place this Friday the 3rd of October at The Banqueting Hall, City Hall, Bradford at 5.30pm .

INFORMATION ABOUT AKINWALE OGUNDIPE CAN BE FOUND BELOW

Akinwale Ogundipe — Arts and Culture Strategist with a Focus on Community
Innovation and Ethical Tech

Akinwale Ogundipe is a Cultural Development Practitioner championing arts, heritage, and community innovation, with a career spanning over 20 years across Africa (Nigeria, Uganda, and Cameroon) and the United Kingdom (Bradford).

His work sits at the intersection of arts and culture, community engagement, artificial intelligence (AI), and programme management, with a strong focus on inclusive participation and cultural sustainability.

Akinwale brings a participatory and impact-driven approach to supporting creative growth, drawing on his extensive experience of developing and managing Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) systems to strengthen the visibility, voice, and value of local cultural expressions. Arts & Culture Engagement

Akinwale has played a central role in promoting cultural heritage preservation and creative sector development in both Nigeria and the UK. He was exposed to arts and culture during his days as a teenager, attending cultural festivals and community rites.

He was the president of a social-cultural student club called the Kegites club back in his undergraduate programme at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Nigeria.

He won the best club on camp award for the 1999/2000 academic year.

He currently leads strategic monitoring and evaluation efforts for The Leap Bradford CIC, a creative place-based programme in Bradford, UK, facilitating inclusive cultural participation and capacity-building among artists and communities.

He has designed and delivered initiatives such as:

Culture and Heritage week during the yearly student union week at the Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Nigeria.

The Arts, Culture and Heritage Creatives Workshops in Nigerian secondary schools, which nurture young talents through cultural education, monthly activities, and
creative engagements,

Oversight and support for community-led arts initiatives under the Creative Places Partner (CPP) programme, including documenting the diversity of awardees and assessing the social impact of funded projects.

The Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture programme capacity development as a Master
Trainer for Community Researchers, where he supports the development of a local
cultural workforce by training and mentoring individuals to document, evaluate, and
shape arts and culture initiatives from within their communities.

Supporting cultural festivals research, such as the ongoing study into the Bradford
African Festival of Arts (BAFA), focusing on heritage preservation and intercultural
connection.
Creative programming that integrates intergenerational participation, including
storytelling sessions, truck art installations, and community heritage projects.

Volunteering & Community Leadership
Akinwale is deeply embedded in grassroots cultural development. His volunteer experiences
include:

Served as Children’s Extra Class Coordinator at his church back in Nigeria,
developing inclusive programs that introduce children to arts, culture, and storytelling.

Served as a system-strengthening volunteer with the Volunteering Bradford team,
where I designed a basic case management tool and trained programme staff.

Served as event runner and venue assistant for the Bradford Literature Festival in
2023 and 2025.

Serving as a volunteer Community researcher, master trainer, and event evaluator for
the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture programme.

Volunteering for a community-focused organisation like Johnson Community Support
Initiative (JCSI) to deliver arts and heritage workshops in schools, offering
mentorship and co-developing local awards and cash grants for young creatives.

Supporting several cultural workshops and festivals through logistical planning,
training, and the facilitation of feedback loops between organisers and local
participants.
These engagements reflect his commitment to cultural access, youth empowerment, and the sustainability of heritage knowledge systems.

Academic Background
Akinwale holds:
MSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics from the University of
Bradford, UK
MSc in Health Management (Public Health) from the International Telematic
University UNINETTUNO, Italy
These academic foundations have enabled him to explore the interplay of emerging
technologies, health, and culture, particularly how AI can serve the public good through
culturally sensitive frameworks and ethical deployment.

Research Interests
Akinwale’s current research interest is on developing an ethical AI framework for
evaluating cultural policy and measuring the social impact of arts and cultural
programmes.

This research aims to:
 Integrate participatory evaluation methodologies that reflect the lived
experiences, voices, and values of cultural stakeholders and creative communities.
 Design trust-based and transparent AI systems that respect cultural sovereignty
and advance equity in how data is collected, analysed, and interpreted within the
arts.
 Adopt a collaborative, mixed-methods approach, co-designing AI-driven
evaluation tools with artists, cultural leaders, policymakers, and data practitioners to
ensure relevance, accountability, and community ownership.

His proposed framework seeks to balance responsibility, compliance, and creativity,
ensuring AI tools used in the sector are inclusive, non-exploitative, and capable of enhancing community well being

#universityofbradford #bradford2025 #yabatech #blackachievers