“Africa Business Week represents an intentional effort to reshape how Africa is understood within the University of Virginia Darden School of Business community.
Too often, Africa is discussed through a narrow lens focused on challenges rather than the richness of its identity. This week seeks to change that by positioning Africa the way Hollywood has long positioned the United States—not just as a place, but as a cultural force. Through storytelling, music, fashion, food, and enterprise, we aim to showcase a continent that is vibrant, influential, and deeply woven into the fabric of global culture.
For me, the purpose is both personal and strategic. It is about representation—ensuring that Africa is not just included in global conversations, but experienced and understood through its culture, creativity, and people. And it is about opportunity—creating moments where students, investors, and future leaders can connect with Africa not as an abstract idea, but as a living, breathing ecosystem full of energy and possibility.
What I hope this week achieves is simple but powerful: that people leave not just informed, but immersed. That they begin to see Africa not only as a place to study or analyze, but as a culture to experience—one that, like the influence of Hollywood, shapes perceptions, sparks curiosity, and inspires people around the world to engage, explore, build, and belong.”
Tosin Fashola DABO, President 2025-2026
Second Coffee – Discover Africa
The week opened with a casual but intentional gathering that introduced the vision behind Africa Business Week with coffee, conversation, and African snacks from across the continent, creating space for curiosity, connection, and cultural exchange in an approachable and engaging way.
“Talking through African snacks and how they’re made so differently (and sometimes so similarly!) across countries was such a fun conversation. It really set the tone for the rest of the week and got people excited!” – Mercy Ogbleba
Africa Globetrotter – Learn About Business & Culture
This interactive session took participants across countries including Rwanda, Ethiopia, Morocco, and South Africa, blending business insights with cultural storytelling to highlight the diversity, innovation, and opportunities that exist across the continent.
“ Africa is so much more than the few countries and cities you usually hear about — and the Globetrotter series does a beautiful job of showing you exactly that. The continent is incredibly diverse, with each region bringing its own unique cultures, traditions, and stories to the table. What makes it truly special, though, is that it gives you a real peek into the home countries and cities of your own peers here at Darden — a genuine glimpse into who they are and where they come from. That alone makes it worth showing up for. Oh, and the food? Always a highlight!” – Abhay Vijay
Cold Call – Experience A Touch of Africa
Through music, dance, fashion, and performance, students showcased the beauty and energy of cultures from Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. This event celebrated both individuality and community, creating a space where culture could be experienced in motion.
“ I love Cold Call! It’s human nature to desire to be witnessed; Cold Call gives students a stage to be seen and heard. Beyond celebrating the identity of my fellow students, I also benefit from experiencing fashion and styles I’ve never seen, food and flavors I’ve never tasted, and building relationships with people across the world. The opportunity to become genuine friends with Africans and people of all nations is a recent phenomenon in human history, and I don’t want to take that for granted!” – Hayden Daggett
African Music, Art & Film Festival – The New Playbook: Africa’s Movement in Business & Creativity
The week concluded with a curated showcase of African film, music, art and storytelling, highlighting the intersection of creativity and innovation across the continent. The festival centered voices and ideas shaping Africa’s creative and business ecosystems.
“It showed me the diversity and innovation within Africa’s creative economy and how business, creativity, innovation, and art come together to tell powerful stories and build meaningful impact. It was both inspiring and eye-opening” – Christina Washington
