We cannot think of uniting with others, until after we have first united among ourselves. We cannot think of being acceptable to others until we have first proven acceptable to ourselves. -Malcolm X

From Afrobeats topping the music charts to Marvel’s Black Panther movies selling out movie theaters, African culture is the newest pop culture phenomena worldwide. This new appreciation for African culture has sparked a new found interest in the food we eat, the clothes we wear and how we live our lives. For far too long, what is portrayed about African culture has been told from the lens of outsiders with very little connection to the people who live on the land. With advancements in DNA research, people all over the world are able to accurately find out if they have African ancestry. This is life changing for some many people who’s history was practically erased as a result of the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade.

We need to empower our creators and makers with technology and bridge the gap between the Diaspora and the Motherland. Our approach to keeping our culture connected is through technology and eliminating barriers to technology is at our core. Connected to Culture, Inc.’s mission is to provide tech-enabled tools and resources that will better position creators and makers of African descent and lovers of African culture to connect with the Diaspora through digital literacy, online collaboration, story-telling, business coaching and start-up funding in order to build stronger Black communities worldwide. The organization is a Washington, DC based 501 (c)(3) with offices internationally in Ghana that serves communities in the Nation’s Capital and expanding nationwide.

Traveling to and around the continent is easier than ever: There are now more direct flights from cities all over the country and the world, making flights to Africa as short as 6 hours from the United States. There are countries that don’t even require travel visas. Even with the evolving COVID-19 pandemic restrictions/requirements, planning a trip to Africa can be affordable and easy to plan. With the launch in the metaverse, folks from all over the world have the opportunity to travel all over the world without leaving their homes. Join us as we explore the rich traditions and culture all over Africa with tech and storytelling.

—

Akua Tay
Founder and Board Chair