In this podcast episode, Betty C. Andrews, the president and CEO of Betty Andrews Media and executive director of Iowa’s African American Festival, shares insights into the impactful history of “I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa,” which has become the state’s largest African American festival since its inception in 1998. Originally a national call to action, the festival has evolved to highlight African American arts and culture, fostering a connection and sense of affirmation for the Black community in Iowa.

The festival is structured as a three-part event: the Embracing Excellence Gala, Celebration Day, and Education Day. The Gala honors individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the community in a formal setting. Education Day is dedicated to enriching the lives of middle and high school students through STEM activities and resources for college and career paths. Celebration Day serves as the festival’s centerpiece, featuring live performances, food vendors, a kids’ carnival, and a health fair.

Overall, the festival not only celebrates Black excellence but also aims to address health disparities within the African American community, bringing people together to appreciate and engage with Black culture in a predominantly white state.

More Information about I'll Make Me A World in Iowa:

Website: https://www.worldiniowa.org/

Event Dates:

• Education Day - Friday, February 7th, 2025 - 9AM - 2PM
• Celebration Day - Saturday, February 8th, 2025 - 10AM - 2PM

Location:

• Horizons Event Center
• 2100 NW 100th Street
• Clive, Iowa 50325

***THESE EVENTS ARE FREE ADMISSIONS***

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

TikTok: @black.girl.iowa

Instagram: @black.girl.iowa

BlackGirlIowa MERCH is NOW AVAILABLE!

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Audrey Kennis, the Human Services and Inclusion Director for the City of West Des Moines, shares her journey from Denver, Colorado to Iowa and her experiences at Clarke University. She discusses the culture shock she experienced in Iowa and the microaggressions she faced as a Black woman.

Audrey's story highlights the importance of embracing diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life. The conversation explores the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and the need to understand and respect different cultures and perspectives. It highlights the role of DEI in higher education and the efforts of institutions to promote diversity.

The conversation concludes with a call to action for individuals to get involved and make a difference in their communities.

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

TikTok: @blackgirliowa

Instagram: @blackgirliowa

2025 Black. Girl. Iowa. Reading Challenge - HERE!!!

In this reflective episode, Emili discusses her experiences and accomplishments throughout 2024, a year she describes as challenging yet transformative. She shares her proudest moments, including graduating from grad school, starting a new teaching career, and leaving a toxic relationship.

Emili emphasizes the importance of self-celebration, personal growth, and the power of storytelling through her podcast. As she looks forward to 2025, she sets new goals and expresses gratitude for her journey and community.

Want More Black. Girl. Iowa.?

Website: www.blackgirliowa.com

TikTok: @blackgirliowa

Instagram: @blackgirliowa

2025 Black. Girl. Iowa. Reading Challenge - GET THE LIST HERE!

2025 Journal Prompt Book Selection

Self-Love Workbook for Black Women: Empowering Exercises to Build Self-Compassion and Nurture Your True Self (Self-Love Workbook and Journal) by Rachel Johnson, LMSW-MFT - GET IT HERE!