project leader
Jua K
location
Hamilton Avenue
(Highland Park)
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the project

The AfroDziak Project embodies the spirit of unity, representation, and cultural celebration. It's an initiative driven by three creators who have witnessed the global essence of African culture, its influences, and its power to bring people together. Through our travels spanning continents, we've realized the ubiquity of Black culture and its magnetic charm that goes beyond race, age, gender, or language. We dream of a space in Metro Detroit that embodies the sophistication, beauty, and magic of the African diaspora – our very own Wakanda.

 The possibility of a place that is:

  • Beautiful
  • Sophisticated
  • Regal
  • Sexy
  • Sophisticated
  • Intelligent
  • Bold

Gave all of us a sense of pride and belonging and made us yearn for a place like Wakanda in our everyday lives.

The AfroDziak project was created to be our Wakanda in real life.

Wakanda on steroids...

What we will Bring to the community 

  1. Public Benefit & Infrastructure Implementation - Our initiative will rejuvenate the Metro Detroit area, turning Hamilton Avenue into a vibrant public space.
  2. Reimagination of Public Space - AfroDziak's design and architecture promise a transformative experience, reminiscent of the grandeur of cinematic Wakanda.
  3. Location - Nestled in the heart of Metro Detroit, our project promises to be a beacon of cultural pride for Michigan residents and visitors alike.
  4. BIPOC-led Leadership - Spearheaded by a passionate team deeply rooted in the Black community, AfroDziak stands as a testament to empowered community-driven initiatives.
  5. Community-centric - We envision a space that fosters connection, celebrates diversity, and uplifts the spirit of global African culture.
  6. Alignment with Communities First - Our core principles resonate with a forward-thinking approach, ensuring AfroDziak stands out as a hallmark of community welfare and progress.
  7. Community Engagement - By collaborating with local residents, we aim to create a communal space that resonates with authentic stories and shared experiences.
  8. Implementation Timeline - We're dedicated to bringing our vision to life in a timely manner, ensuring the community benefits sooner rather than later.
  9. Crowdfunding - Our funding endeavors are community-backed, reflecting the shared excitement and belief in AfroDziak's potential.

 

Imagine being welcomed by one of the elders into a well lit, secure, spacious, open air sustainable container market (that has a retractable roof for the winter months)  with a large wood plank deck that's surrounded by a lush green garden. 

The containers stores will house:

1) Fresh juice bar

2) International cafe that serves food and drink from the diaspora

3) Clothing, shoe, and jewelry brands from Pan African nations

4) Music and books from Pan African writers and poets

5) Home decor and  furnishings from Pan African furniture designers

6) Dance parties, think tanks, book and poet readings, and other special events highlighting African culture throughout the world

With a laser focus on white glove service and reasonable pricing our goal is to stimulate the mind, body, and soul and be a bridge between the consumer and the wonders of unknown worlds and experiences.

 

the steps

Our project plan is as follows:
 

  • September 1, 2023 -Begin large scale crowdfunding efforts
  • November 31, 2023 -retain architect and hire surveyor to complete boundary survey--our initial ask is $15,000
  • December 3, 2023 - first round of crowdfunding complete --purchase 12 container units and retain general contractor
  • January 15, 2024-Begin foundation build , plot layout, and renovation of container structures--institute inventory plan and begin purchasing

Second round of crowdfunding complete

  • February 1, 2024--Begin hiring staff, launch coming soon marketing, and begin social media and advertising push--start importing goods
  • March 15, 2024-Container structure is complete--Staff is in place --training commences

third round of  crowdfunding complete

  • April 15th-19th soft opening
  • April 25th-April 27th. Grand Opening--NFL Draft

 

why we're doing it

 

  • Reimagining Public Space: Our venture revitalizes underutilized spaces, drawing inspiration from global African influences to provide a fresh cultural ambiance.
  • Community Engagement: Our events and activities aim to physically gather people, celebrating African culture and fostering unity.
  • Healing Projects: AfroDziak will serve as a beacon of representation and a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Black culture.
  • Spatial Justice & Placekeeping: Our project ensures the preservation and celebration of Black culture, history, and artistry in Metro Detroit.
  • Public Transit Experience: Located on Hamilton Avenue, we aim to enhance public transport experiences by providing cultural hubs near transit points.

budget

$3,000  - Social media/Branding 

$10,900 - Architect Retainer

 



PROJECT FUNDING NEEDED $15,000.00
ioby Fiscal Sponsorship Fee 8% N/A
ioby Donation Processing Fee 4% $413.07
TOTAL TO RAISE $15,413.07
Donation processing fees apply to donations only. 100% of match funding goes to projects. Please note, fees are estimated here and final numbers may change based on the final amount raised and amount of match funding applied to this campaign.

 

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