Together, We Rise
Honoring our roots. Uniting families. Rising as one community.
Immediate Support Available
If you're facing a crisis, we're here to help right now. No appointments needed.
Emergency Food
Immediate food assistance through our local partners. Fresh groceries, prepared meals, and emergency food boxes available monthly.
Walk-ins welcome • No documentation required
Housing Crisis
Facing eviction or homelessness? We can connect you with emergency housing support, rent assistance, and shelter resources.
Crisis Help Line (Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 6 PM): (502) 475-6117
Crisis Support
Experiencing a mental health emergency or domestic violence? We offer referrals to trained counselors and crisis centers.
Confidential • Culturally appropriate
*These services are provided in partnership with local nonprofits, shelters, and support agencies. Afrikana Community Center is not staffed 24/7.
Who We Are
A newly launched center for African culture, connection, and community empowerment in the heart of Louisville.
Founded by Aweys Ali, who has served Louisville's African community for over 15 years as a dedicated community leader, the Afrikana Community Center was born from a vision — to create a comprehensive space where African immigrants, refugees, and descendants can connect, grow, and thrive together.
We represent the diverse people of Africa—from Somalia, Sudan, Congo, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Kenya, and beyond—who now call Louisville home. We celebrate our rich heritage, languages, and faith traditions while uniting under one shared purpose: to uplift every African soul with dignity, love, and strength.
"After years of serving our community in various capacities, I founded Afrikana to create a home where ALL African families can find support, preserve their culture, and build their American dreams."
— Aweys Ali, Founder
A Message from Our Founder
"Drawing on 15+ years of community leadership experience, I created this center so our people would always have a place to be seen, heard, and loved. Afrikana is not just a name—it's our roots, our voice, and our power."
— Aweys Ali, Founder
🚀 Our Launch Story
Launched in 2025, Afrikana Community Center builds on 15+ years of proven community leadership experience serving African families in Louisville. Our founder has worked extensively with immigrant and refugee families, developing deep relationships with local service providers, schools, healthcare systems, and faith communities.
We're not starting from scratch — we're expanding a proven model of culturally-appropriate support to serve the broader African diaspora community with comprehensive programs and dedicated space.
Our Programs
Comprehensive support services designed from years of frontline experience serving African families
Youth & Mentorship Programs
We believe in our youth. Our programs support their academic growth, personal development, and cultural pride through comprehensive programming.
- Tutoring & academic support
- One-on-one mentorship
- Faith-based learning
- Sports activities
- Cultural arts expression
Women's Empowerment Circles
When women rise, families thrive. We provide a safe, nurturing space where our sisters can heal, grow, and lead.
- Sisterhood support networks
- Leadership development
- Spiritual healing sessions
- Financial literacy training
- Entrepreneurship development
Cultural Preservation & Language
We honor our heritage and keep our rich cultural traditions alive for future generations.
- African language classes
- Traditional cooking arts
- Music & performing arts
- Oral history traditions
- Cultural celebrations
Family Care & Support
We stand beside our families in every season of life, offering comprehensive support with love and dignity.
- Food assistance programs
- Housing support & referrals
- Job readiness training
- Mental health services
- Childcare support
Refugee & Immigrant Support
Starting over in a new country is never easy. We walk alongside new arrivals every step of the way.
- Housing assistance
- Legal aid & immigration guidance
- Translation & ESL services
- Healthcare navigation
- Transportation support
Community Events & Outreach
We bring our people together through meaningful events that strengthen bonds and celebrate our culture.
- Faith gatherings
- Cultural festivals
- Educational workshops
- Health fairs
- Interfaith partnerships
📋 Our Phased Launch Approach
We're launching our programs thoughtfully, starting with the most urgent needs and expanding based on community feedback and support. Each program builds on years of experience serving African families in Louisville.
📋 Join Our ProgramsOur Community Vision
See the heart and soul of what we're building - a vibrant community space where African families thrive
Community BBQ & Food Sharing
Families preparing traditional meals and building lasting bonds through shared cooking experiences
Youth Sports & Recreation
Building character, teamwork, and community bonds through active play and sports
Multi-Generational Gatherings
Celebrating family bonds and cultural traditions across all generations
Educational Animal Experiences
Teaching responsibility, compassion, and connection with nature
Summer Swimming Programs
Promoting health, water safety, and joyful recreation for our youth
Community Agriculture
Growing food, traditions, and sustainable practices together
Cultural Celebrations
Honoring our rich heritage through music, dance, and joyful traditions
Leadership in Action
Community leaders serving alongside families with dedication and love
Food Distribution Programs
Addressing hunger with dignity, love, and community support
💡 Our Founding Inspiration
After 15+ years of community leadership, Aweys Ali recognized that while individual communities had support systems, there was no comprehensive center serving ALL African families in Louisville. Afrikana Community Center fills this critical gap.
🎯 Join Our Next Event
Ready to be part of something powerful? Whether you're new to the city or looking to reconnect with your roots, our community welcomes you. From family potlucks to youth workshops and cultural nights — there's something here for everyone.
👉 Come see why so many call Afrikana home.
Our Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated leaders who guide our mission to empower and unite the African community in Louisville
Aweys Ali
Aweys arrived in Louisville in 2008 with a heart full of purpose and a deep connection to African values and faith. His vision to create a space where African immigrants, refugees, and descendants can connect, grow, and thrive together became the foundation of the Afrikana Community Center.
Zeytun Aden
Manages corporate records and communications, ensuring proper documentation, minutes, and organizational correspondence while supporting outreach efforts.
Osman Noor
Community leader focused on organizing and strategic leadership. Works closely with the founder to ensure programs meet the diverse needs of African families in Louisville.
Asha Abdulahi
Financial management and nonprofit governance to ensure resources are used effectively and transparently.
Sadiyo Khamis
Coordinates programs to meet community needs, specializing in program development, outreach, and family support.
Mohamed Abdi
Leads youth development and mentorship, empowering the next generation of African leaders in Louisville.
Abdiwahab Ali
Multilingual advocate supporting outreach and services across diverse African communities.
Morris Doe
Supports educational initiatives and cultural programs through faith-based leadership.
Chechina Mamadoe
Advocates for cultural inclusion and supports outreach programs with a heart for service.
Staff & Key Volunteers
Dedicated team members who coordinate daily operations and volunteer activities
Ali Khamis
Recruits, trains, and coordinates volunteers; manages schedules and appreciation; provides cultural guidance to teams.
Cultural Glossary
Understanding African culture, terms, and traditions that guide our community
Transforming Lives
Real stories of hope, resilience, and transformation that happen every day at Afrikana Community Center
From Newcomer to Neighbor
"When I first arrived in Louisville, everything felt overwhelming. I didn't speak much English, I didn't know where to find halal food, and I was scared about finding work. Afrikana didn't just help me find a home — they gave me a family. The housing support, English classes, and job training completely changed my life. Now I have a good job, my children are thriving in school, and I volunteer to help other new families."
— Amina, Somali Refugee, Now Community Volunteer
Empowered to Lead
"The Women's Empowerment Circle changed everything for me. I came as a shy mother who barely spoke in public. Through the leadership workshops and sisterhood support, I found my voice. Today, I run my own small business and mentor other women in our community. Afrikana taught me that when women rise, families thrive."
— Fatima, Business Owner & Community Leader
Support Our Mission
Your donation directly supports African families in Louisville. Every contribution makes a difference.
💝 Make a Donation
🤝 Other Ways to Give
3131 S 2nd St
Louisville, KY 40208
Suite #203
🌟 Launch Impact Goals
Make a Difference Today
Join our mission to empower African families in Louisville. Your support transforms lives, preserves culture, and builds a stronger community for all.
Get Involved
Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or partner with us, there are many ways to support our mission and make a lasting impact in the African community of Louisville.
As we launch Afrikana Community Center, these numbers reflect our vision and growing momentum. We’re building a space where diverse families, youth, and volunteers unite to support one another.