The Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair, a burgeoning initiative spearheaded by Nigerian entrepreneurs, is rapidly establishing itself as a vibrant platform for African businesses to showcase their cultural heritage through commerce. The recent second edition of the fair witnessed remarkable success, attracting over 2,000 attendees and featuring more than 100 vendors representing a diverse range of sectors, including fashion, crafts, cuisine, wellness, and various creative industries. This vibrant marketplace served as a testament to African innovation and entrepreneurship, drawing a diverse crowd from across Manitoba and beyond, solidifying its position as a key event in the province’s cultural calendar.
The fair’s success was further amplified by the presence of prominent figures, including Manitoba’s Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-term Care, Uzoma Asagwara, alongside other dignitaries from the City of Winnipeg and leading community organizations. Their attendance underscored the growing recognition of the fair’s importance in fostering economic growth and cultural exchange within the community. The organizers, Tolulope Adebayo, Founder of Canada-Naija Business Hub and BrandParlour Communications Inc., and Olubunmi Agbaje, Founder of Nigerians in Winnipeg Inc. and Diva Dazzle Events, expressed immense pride in the fair’s rapid growth and the positive impact it has had on participating businesses. They emphasized their vision for future expansion, envisioning the fair as a global platform for African entrepreneurship.
The enthusiastic response from both vendors and attendees further highlighted the fair’s success. Toluwalope Toludare, a ceramic artist who participated in the event, described it as a turning point for his business, providing invaluable exposure and exceeding his sales expectations. He praised the fair’s ability to connect artists with a receptive audience that values local artistry. Similarly, attendees expressed their excitement about the fair’s vibrant atmosphere and the diverse array of products and services on offer. The event resonated as a celebration of culture and creativity, fostering a sense of community and connection among attendees.
Deputy Premier Uzoma Asagwara lauded the initiative, drawing parallels between the fair and the vibrant markets of Nigeria. He emphasized the fair’s role in providing a “slice of home” for the Nigerian community in Manitoba while simultaneously empowering local businesses and enriching the province’s cultural landscape. This sentiment was echoed by Abiola Rasak, a member of the organizing committee, who emphasized the fair’s inclusive mission to welcome people from all backgrounds, fostering community through culture and business. The collaboration between the organizers and Nigerians of Winnipeg further strengthened the event’s impact, creating a bridge between African entrepreneurs and the broader Canadian community.
The Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair’s resounding success has fueled its organizers’ ambition to expand its reach globally. They are actively seeking sponsors, investors, and cultural stakeholders to join them in scaling the platform and showcasing African business excellence on the world stage. This forward-looking vision aims to transform the fair into a leading international hub for African-led entrepreneurship, providing a powerful platform for businesses to connect with new markets and opportunities. The organizers are confident that the fair’s unique blend of cultural celebration and commercial activity will resonate with audiences worldwide.
Looking forward, the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair is poised for continued growth and expansion. Its success story serves as an inspiring example of how entrepreneurship can be leveraged to celebrate cultural heritage and foster economic empowerment. The organizers’ commitment to inclusivity and community building has created a vibrant platform that celebrates diversity and provides opportunities for businesses of all sizes to thrive. As the fair embarks on its journey towards international recognition, it carries the potential to become a powerful force for promoting African entrepreneurship and cultural exchange on a global scale. The fair’s success is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication of the Nigerian entrepreneurial community in Winnipeg.
