Last August, the Africa Caribbean Heritage Alliance (ACHA) proudly opened its new dedicated space at City Centre Mall, Edmonton, creating a vibrant hub for youth programs, cultural education, and community wellness. This milestone marks an exciting chapter in ACHA’s journey to connect youth and community members with African and Caribbean cultures while promoting health, creativity, and economic opportunity.
The opening builds on the success of ACHA’s spring initiative, CHAWTA (Community Health and Wellness Through Arts), which was supported by an AHC Seed Grant 2025. CHAWTA is designed to engage youth through a combination of arts, dance, and cultural heritage activities. By offering programs like traditional dance classes and workshops on creating cultural artifacts, CHAWTA encourages participants to explore their identity, develop new skills, and strengthen their mental and physical well-being.
Since its launch, the program has had a remarkable impact on the community. Approximately 40 participants in the dance classes reported improved social connections, enhanced confidence, and better mental health outcomes. These activities don’t just teach steps or craft techniques—they foster teamwork, cultural pride, and a sense of belonging. Youth participants often share how creating or performing arts inspired by their heritage boosts their self-esteem and helps them connect with peers who share similar experiences.
The new ACHA space also serves as a vibrant marketplace for Afro-Caribbean vendors and program participants. This unique aspect allows community members to showcase and sell traditional arts and crafts, turning creative skills into real-world economic opportunities. By combining cultural celebration with entrepreneurship, ACHA encourages youth and adults alike to explore new avenues for personal and professional growth.
The grand opening celebration was more than a festive gathering. It included targeted sessions on Financial Awareness, Business Development, and Intercultural Exchange, welcoming members from African, Caribbean, and Indigenous communities. These workshops are part of ACHA’s ongoing effort to provide holistic support—nurturing cultural, economic, and personal development in one integrated program.
Looking ahead, ACHA is excited to launch a youth musical band. This initiative is designed to raise awareness and support for program sustainability, while also providing a creative outlet for youth to express themselves through music. Combined with existing dance and arts programs, the band is expected to further strengthen youth engagement, community participation, and fundraising efforts.
ACHA’s new space is more than just a physical location—it’s a dynamic hub for culture, wellness, and community growth. By bringing together youth programs, arts education, and small business opportunities, the organization is actively building a stronger, healthier, and more connected African and Caribbean community in Edmonton.
Community members, parents, and youth are encouraged to visit the ACHA space at City Centre Mall to experience the vibrant programs firsthand. Whether you’re interested in learning traditional dance, exploring cultural crafts, or participating in wellness and business workshops, ACHA offers a welcoming environment where heritage, health, and opportunity intersect.
Through initiatives like CHAWTA, ACHA demonstrates that arts and culture are powerful tools for community wellness, youth empowerment, and economic development. By investing in programs that nurture both personal growth and cultural pride, ACHA is creating a sustainable model for inclusive, arts-driven community engagement in Edmonton and beyond.