Embarrassment as the Cost for Entry: The AfriKin Journey

Eleven years in, and building AfriKin has not gotten easier—only more intentional. As I continue to raise the bar on what it means to present the highest quality experience of Black excellence, I’ve come to embrace a profound truth: embarrassment is often the cost of entry.

My brother Bartlett reminded me of that recently. In this fast-paced, high-traffic world where everything and everyone is constantly moving and posting and performing, the true test of vision is vulnerability. So I’ve accepted his challenge—to lean in for the next 90 days. To post more, share more, connect more. Not just to build the brand, but to better understand you, our audience. Your desires, your expectations, your needs—and how I can continue to serve you with purpose, clarity, and authenticity.

This work, this mission—AfriKin—is not just a brand. It is a commitment to offering premium experiences that reflect the richness of our people. African contemporary art. The flavors of our kitchens. The boldness of our fashion. The brilliance of our minds. We call it Black Luxe. But it’s more than aesthetics. It’s a statement. It’s a reclaiming of our cultural power and a global reintroduction of who we are—and who we’ve always been.

And though the journey is not easy, it is beautiful. Each step forward—yes, even the awkward ones—is a lesson in grace. Every stumble is still movement. Every moment of discomfort is proof that I’m growing into the vision I hold for AfriKin and all who walk this path with me.

I have traveled across the African continent, throughout Europe and the Caribbean, meeting our global kin and witnessing firsthand how deeply we long to connect. They are watching. Waiting. Yearning for that bridge. AfriKin is that bridge.

As we gear up for Taste of AfriKin this Labor Day weekend and prepare to welcome the world to the AfriKin Art Fair during Miami Art Week, I want to invite you to be part of this growing story. This isn’t just about events—it’s about remembrance, reclamation, and recognition. It’s about healing and hope. It's about the heart.

I believe in our limitless potential. I believe in our beauty. And I believe AfriKin can be the experience you've been waiting for—one that wraps you in culture, elevates your spirit, and reminds you that you belong to a lineage of innovators, creators, and kings and queens.

So, let’s co-create. Let’s celebrate. Let’s show the world what it means to live and love out loud as AfriKin.

I’d love to hear from you—what should we introduce next? What do you want more of? How can I serve this community more deeply?

We’re just getting started. And I’m here for all of it.

With love, light, and endless respect,

— Alfonso Brooks, for AfriKin

CALL TO ACTION:
The AfriKin Art Fair 2025: Through Creation, We Find Meaning is now open for artist submissions. Be part of a historic movement. Tell your story. Share your vision. Heal through creation.

Visit Afrikin.art for more information and submission guidelines.

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Please share your thoughts with us by sending an email to info@afrikin.org or leaving a comment below. Your feedback is important to us as we continue to grow and evolve.