Flirting with the World: Charisma, Conviction, and Connection

In a world where division and discord seem to be at the forefront of our daily interactions, it is critical to distinguish between mere access and genuine welcome. At AfriKin, through our AfriKin Art Fair and various cultural workshops and events, we strive to do more than just grant access to the vast and dynamic world of art from Global Africa and the Black world—we cultivate a space where all kin, across ethnic lines, feel truly welcomed, embraced, and celebrated.

The distinction between access and being welcomed is pivotal. Access is transactional; it allows entry, often at a price. Being welcomed, however, is transformational; it nurtures belonging. In these times of heightened social fragmentation, we must be vigilant in identifying spaces that uphold our values and cultivate inclusivity rather than merely accommodating attendees for their monetary contributions.

The Responsibility of Creating Cohesion

The work we do at AfriKin is difficult but necessary. It is an act of resistance against the growing tide of division and exclusion. We are intentional in fostering an environment where every individual—whether they are an artist, a patron, a cultural enthusiast, or simply a curious soul—feels they are in a place where they matter. Our responsibility is to create a space where even those who prefer solitude or who navigate the world in silos can find connection without fear of imposition.

We recognize that we are living in a new world, one that requires us to adapt if we are to thrive. Survival in this evolving landscape is not just about holding onto the past but also about making the necessary adjustments to ensure that we remain a beacon of unity, education, and cultural preservation.

10 Ways to Recognize a Welcoming Space vs. Mere Access

If we are to be discerning, we must recognize the signs that distinguish a truly welcoming environment from one that merely grants us access. Here are ten indicators to help you determine whether a space aligns with your morals, virtues, and sense of belonging:

Inclusivity in Representation – Are all voices being acknowledged and amplified, or does the space prioritize a select group while merely tolerating others?

Authentic Engagement – Do the hosts and organizers genuinely interact with all attendees, or do they reserve their warmth for a particular demographic?

Accessibility Beyond Finances – Is participation limited to those who can afford it, or are efforts made to include individuals from diverse economic backgrounds?

Community Building – Is there an emphasis on fostering connections, or is the focus solely on commercial transactions and networking for personal gain?

Respect for Different Perspectives – Are diverse thoughts and cultures embraced, or is there an underlying pressure to conform to a singular narrative?

Intentionality in Space Design – Does the space feel thoughtfully curated with warmth and inclusivity in mind, or is it sterile, uninviting, or overtly exclusive?

Efforts to Make Everyone Feel Seen and Heard – Are there initiatives to acknowledge and celebrate everyone’s presence, or is attention selectively given to high-profile attendees?

Genuine Hospitality – Are the staff, volunteers, and hosts making efforts to ensure comfort and belonging, or do interactions feel performative and indifferent?

Commitment to Upliftment and Education – Does the space offer meaningful conversations, learning opportunities, and cultural enrichment, or is it simply a backdrop for entertainment and social status?

Consistent and Ethical Practices – Does the space operate with integrity in its treatment of people and ethical considerations, or are there discrepancies in how different groups are treated?

The Importance of Discernment

In a society that often equates financial ability with social inclusion, we must cultivate discernment. It is not enough to be let in—we must ensure that we are truly being welcomed, valued, and given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. Spaces that uphold unity, respect, and genuine hospitality will leave you feeling enriched and inspired, while those that merely offer access will leave you feeling like just another customer, another statistic, another fleeting presence in their ledger.

AfriKin remains committed to fostering a space that goes beyond access. We are not just here to open doors; we are here to hold space for everyone willing to walk through them with an open heart, a willing spirit, and a respect for the interconnectedness of our collective humanity.

In these trying times, let us all commit to seeking and creating spaces that do more than allow us to enter—let us build places where we are truly at home.

Gratitude and grace in all ways,

Alfonso D. Brooks
Founder, AfriKin