At the end of May, Zagreb's Ribnjak Park once again came alive with the annual Africa Day celebration. Whenever Africa is involved, we're always happy to be there. The air is filled with the aromas of African cuisine, the sound of drums, music, dancing, and the vibrant colours of traditional clothing.

The event is organised by Africans in Croatia Connect with the aim of bringing together the African community living in Croatia while introducing visitors to the richness of African cultures, traditions and customs.

At this year's celebration, held on May 23, Kolajna ljubavi specially took part. Our volunteers, who had previously volunteered in Tanzania, walked in the African fashion show wearing dresses they had made by local tailors during their stay in Africa. Like true African women, they completed their outfits with authentic African jewellery, which is much more than a fashion accessory. It is a symbol of the love for a continent that, once you experience it through volunteering and life within the local community, stays in your heart forever.

When our volunteers stepped onto the runway, the host introduced them as “white African women”, a moment that was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

After the fashion show, we spent time with visitors, sharing stories from Tanzania and even surprising many of them with our knowledge of Swahili, the language spoken across much of East Africa. The biggest surprise came from Kolajna ljubavi's founder, Ivana Marasović, who speaks Swahili fluently. Her command of the language showed just how deep a connection people can build with another culture.

We are truly grateful to have been part of this wonderful event, which brings people together, celebrates diversity, and creates opportunities to discover the beauty of African cultures here in Croatia.

Take a look at how our amazing volunteers represented Kolajna ljubavi at the Africa Day fashion show!