KENWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) — “A Glimpse of Africa” will host its first-ever Mental Health & Wellness Fair and Africa Day Celebration in Kenwood.
The event kicked off Saturday with a much larger crowd than expected gathering at Southeast Kelloggsville Elementary School, which had to provide additional parking. Hundreds of people gathered for the health fair.
“A lot of times, there are a lot of young people who don’t know much about mental health, and a lot of times, young people don’t want to talk about it or feel it’s not safe to talk about it,” said organizer Kawiye Jumare. “So the vendors that are here today are allowing them to approach someone, sit down with them and have a one-on-one conversation so it’s safer and more confidential.”
Alongside food, music and concessions aimed at mental health, the soccer tournament will feature 14 teams, most of whom are first- or second-generation immigrants, representing different states, organizers said.
“This is a culturally sensitive community healing space. It’s not just about celebrating the different cultures that are represented here, but also about understanding that community healing is real. It’s focused on making everyone feel good,” said Frida Kanini, CEO of A Glimpse of Africa. “Adding a physical element with the soccer tournament has really motivated people to come and it reduces the stigma around mental health.”
“Today was about empowering men and women in the African community,” Jumare said.
The fair will also be held Sunday at Southeast Kelloggsville Elementary School. 240 52nd Street SENoon to 6pm
