Building Community. Celebrating Heritage.
United Africa Village (UAV) is a vibrant community initiative created and operated by the United African Cultural & Heritage Center (UACHC), a registered Canadian not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of African communities.
Our Story
Founded on October 3, 2023, the United African Cultural & Heritage Center (UACHC) is a registered Canadian not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving African heritage, promoting cultural education, and strengthening communities through connection and inclusion.
In 2024, UACHC launched United Africa Village (UAV) as its flagship cultural initiative, creating an immersive festival that celebrates the diverse cultures, traditions, food, music, and artistry of Africa. Today, UACHC continues to grow UAV while expanding year-round programs that inspire cultural understanding, community engagement, and opportunities for future generations.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create Canada’s premier African cultural destination by celebrating the diversity, heritage, and excellence of Africa through immersive cultural experiences, education, community partnerships, and economic opportunities. We bring people of all backgrounds together to inspire understanding, preserve cultural traditions, empower communities, and build lasting connections that enrich lives and strengthen the communities we serve.
Our Journey So Far
Since launching in 2024, United Africa Village has grown into one of Brantford’s most exciting multicultural experiences. In just a short time, we have welcomed thousands of visitors, engaged dedicated volunteers, showcased talented performers, supported local vendors and businesses, and created meaningful opportunities for cultural education, community connection, and celebration.
Like many growing community organizations, our journey has also come with challenges. Limited funding and the need for a permanent community space have made it difficult to expand our year-round programs and provide a consistent location for meetings, workshops, volunteer training, and festival planning. Despite these challenges, our passion, resilience, and the unwavering support of our volunteers, partners, sponsors, and community continue to move us forward.As we look to the future, our vision is to establish a permanent home for United Africa Village—a welcoming cultural hub where communities can gather throughout the year to learn, celebrate, create, and connect.
With continued community support and strategic partnerships, we are confident that the next chapter of United Africa Village will bring even greater opportunities to preserve African heritage, inspire future generations, and build a stronger, more inclusive community for all..
Meet Our Leadership Team
Our volunteer leaders serve with integrity, passion, and purpose, creating a welcoming environment where every volunteer can thrive. Through teamwork, mentorship, and cultural pride, they inspire others while helping preserve African heritage and strengthen our community.
Co-Chairperson
Mr. Taiwo Sodipo is the Co-Chairperson of the United Africa Village and a Director of the United African Cultural & Heritage Center. Since moving to Brantford in 2018 as a clergyman, he has dedicated himself to community service. As a licensed financial professional, he is passionate about helping individuals and families build a stronger financial future while making a positive communityimpact .
Chairperson
Iva Obayuwana is a businesswoman, business consultant, real estate investor, and community leader who has called Brantford home for over 14 years. She is the Chairperson and Founder of United Africa Village and a Director of the United African Cultural & Heritage Center (UACHC), dedicated to celebrating African culture and strengthening the Brantford community.
Mayor
Mr. Adebowale Adeyemi (Prince) is a financial advisor with over 12 years of experience and has proudly called Brantford home for more than six years. Since 2025, he has served as the Mayor of United Africa Village and is a Director of the United African Cultural & Heritage Center (UACHC), where he helps advance community development and celebrate African culture and heritage.
GET IN TOUCH
📞 Festival Hotline: (519) 771-8581
✉️ General Email: info@unitedafricavillage.org
📍 Venue Grounds: Lion’s Park — 20 Edge Street, Brantford, ON