Our Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Meet the Team
Lydie Akala
Lydie Akala is a digital marketing strategist and cultural connector from the Congo, driven by creativity, purpose, and a passion for community. With experience leading campaigns, managing media platforms, and coordinating cross-cultural events, she brings an entrepreneurial mindset to everything she touches—building from vision to execution with care and impact. As part of the African Festival of Boston team, Lydie is excited to help amplify African heritage through vibrant storytelling, digital engagement, and collaborative leadership. Her work is grounded in celebrating identity, elevating voices, and creating space for authentic connection.
Bijou Mengulwa
Bijou Mengulwa is a dynamic data analyst specializing in digital marketing and cultural strategy. With a multidisciplinary background in marketing, event planning, and digital content creation, she brings a unique blend of analytical insight and artistic flair to her work. Bijou is passionate about African culture and storytelling, and she is dedicated to empowering communities through creative engagement. She excels at combining data-driven insights with innovative storytelling to drive meaningful cultural impact.
Tiphaine Oriane Eponou
Tiphaine Oriane Eponou is a marketing specialist from Côte d’Ivoire with a strong passion for brand management and storytelling. With hands-on experience across multiple areas of marketing, she brings both strategic thinking and creative flair to the table.
At the African Festival of Boston, Tiphaine is proud to support the celebration of African identity through thoughtful digital engagement, brand-led initiatives, and meaningful community connections.
Jessaihya Shadari
Jessaihya Shadari has been serving as a community organizer and outreach coordinator for the African Festival of Boston since the age of five. Growing up immersed in the behind-the-scenes planning of city-wide events, including visits to the City of Boston, he developed a deep passion for community engagement and outreach. That early exposure inspired his commitment to civic leadership. Jessaihya is currently a sophomore majoring in Political Science at Franklin Pierce University (FPU), where he also plays college football.
Nahdras Ra Kiros
Nahdras Ra Kiros is the visionary founder of The House of Nahdra, a creative force in fashion and community empowerment.
As the lead designer and coordinator of the African Festival of Boston Fashion Show, she brings her bold, futurist approach to life on the runway.
Through her innovative designs and deep commitment to cultural expression, Nahdras continues to uplift
Tony Grimes
Tonya Grimes is a dedicated community organizer who has been an integral part of the African Festival of Boston for over a decade. Her unwavering commitment, volunteer spirit, and deep love for the community have left a lasting impact on everyone she touches.
Tonya has played a vital role in creating welcoming, vibrant spaces that celebrate African heritage and unity. Her tireless efforts behind the scenes have helped the festival grow into a
DJ Yaki
DJ Yaki is the resident DJ and entertainment producer for the African Festival of Boston, known for delivering high-energy Afrobeat and global sounds. A major force in New England’s Afrobeat scene, he brings his passion and network to every event. You can catch his vibrant sets live 24/7 on AfroSurgeRadio.com. Outside of music, DJ Yaki is Vice President of Cash Management at a local bank, blending business leadership with creative energy.
Mireille Tushiminina
​Mireille Tushiminina is the Co-Founder and Festival Coordinator of the African Festival of Boston, a major force in celebrating and preserving African heritage in the city. For over 15 years, she has championed the power of arts, culture, and storytelling to amplify African narratives and unite communities. As the Founder of Shalupe Community Alliance, Mireille is committed to empowering African immigrants and refugees through cultural programs, social services, and youth initiatives.
Join our Team of AFOB
We’re looking for passionate, energetic people to help us make the African Festival of Boston unforgettable.
Whether you have a few hours or the whole day, your support matters.