The 40^th
AEAA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Conference & Cultural dinner

African cultural attire is incredibly diverse, reflecting the rich heritage and traditions of various ethnic groups and regions. Rooted from colourful and bold patterns, fabrics such as Ankara (wax print), kente, mud cloth, and batik are commonly used. Each pattern and colour combination often carries symbolic meaning or cultural significance. Overall, African cultural attire is not just clothing but a visual representation of identity, heritage, and community pride, celebrated through its diversity of colours, fabrics, and styles. Cultural attire perfectly represents individual cultural identities in a diverse African ethical group.

Conference & Sophiatown vintage Braai dinner

Sophiatown Kofifi clothing Style emerged in the 1950’s. The apartheid government-imposed forced removals swept through the country. Black, coloured and Indian South Africans were evicted from urban parts of cities and moved to the outskirts and Bantustans, in accordance with the Group Areas Act. This resulted in the birth of Sophiatown, which came with Kofifi style – one of Africa's most epic fashion eras. A multicultural hub that brought together people from many different places and fostered an intense cultural exchange, the impact of Sophiatown shapes our fashion and popular culture even today. Kofifi style is characterized by rich beading, vibrant colours, shiny fabrics, feminine silhouettes, and textured suiting for men. It was akin to the African American jazz movement of Harlem, New York, in the 1950s. Global icons who were products of the era, like Mariam Makeba, Dolly Rathebe, Hugh Masekela, and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, carried that look and sound into the next generation.

Bring your Vintage and Fedora hats, fascinators, berets, suspenders, homburg and ivy caps in celebration of Sophiatown.

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Conference & Gala dinner

Gala dinner attire is typically formal and sophisticated, reflecting the importance and elegance of the occasion. It is designed to make attendees feel glamorous and confident while honouring the significance of the event. Choosing the right attire ensures you look and feel your best for this special occasion. The beautiful dresses and suits are enchanting and refined as we bid farewell at the closing ceremony.

Conference Excursion

Conference Excursion Day