AfriCAN: Advancing Africa Together
Presented by TD
On Wednesday, May 6th, join Masai Ujiri and Giants of Africa for a vibrant evening that unites leaders, artists, chefs, entrepreneurs, and the African diaspora through an immersive cultural experience. Discover curated cuisine, bold African designs, live performances, and authentic storytelling that bring the continent’s creativity to life.
- Hear powerful stories from actor-producer-philanthropist Boris Kodjoe, and comedian-entertainer Michael Blackson—visionaries whose journeys prove that staying connected elevates Africa and its entire diaspora.
- Enjoy the undeniable energy of Hassan Phills, one of Canada’s fastest-rising comedians.
- Explore a vibrant cultural marketplace featuring bold African designs, then savour curated dishes from acclaimed chefs Rachel Adjei, Victor Ugwueke, and Bashir Munye—each plate a celebration of the continent’s diverse flavours and contemporary creativity.
More than networking, this is where working professionals from the African diaspora come together to connect, celebrate, and chart the future. Expect inspiring conversations, exceptional entertainment, music, food, drinks, and a community that reminds you of the power we hold when we unite.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday May 6th, 2026
Time: 6:00pm-11:00pm
Location: Steam Whistle Brewing – Locomotive Hall
Address: 255 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3M9
Connected in Culture. United in Purpose.
SPECIAL GUESTS
Boris Kodjoe
Boris Kodjoe is an actor, director, producer, investor, and philanthropist known for his roles in House of Cards, The Last Man on Earth, Brown Sugar, Soul Food, and more. A German-Ghanaian dual citizen with 25+ years of business development and advisory expertise in entertainment, media, and tech, with an investment portfolio spanning over 75 companies, he co-founded Full Circle Africa, which unites business leaders, cultural influencers, and government officials from the continent and diaspora to drive investment tourism and economic development. He also launched the Full Circle Streamline travel platform connecting diasporans with their ancestry and naturalization opportunities.
Michael Blackson
Michael Blackson is a Ghanaian American comedian, actor, and entertainer widely known as “The African King of Comedy,” whose bold comedic style and energetic stage presence have made him one of the most recognizable comedians performing internationally. His career took a major leap forward when a standout stand-up performance in Los Angeles caught the attention of Ice Cube, who cast him in the hit comedy film Next Friday as the memorable “Angry African Man”. A veteran of the stand-up comedy circuit, Blackson has headlined comedy clubs and theatres across the United States and internationally. Beyond entertainment, Michael founded the Michael Blackson Academy in Ghana, a tuition-free school providing education and opportunities for children in underserved communities, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to his homeland.
Hassan Phills
Hassan Phills is one of Canada’s fastest rising comedians, known for his engaging and interactive stand-up shows. Recently featured in Crave’s original series The Office Movers, Hassan has firmly established himself as a dynamic force in Canadian entertainment. His latest act combines exceptional storytelling with spontaneous crowd interaction, creating a unique, intimate experience that makes every performance unmissable.
Chef Rachel Adjei
The Abibiman Project
Chef Bashir Munye
Food Advocate and Educator
Chef Victor Ugwueke
Afrobeat Kitchen
