*To Showcase Youth Empowerment, Investment Forum
Basking in the euphoria of previous editions, the Drum Online looks set to once again facilitate the convergence of global cultural icons, enthusiasts, percussionists and business moguls to celebrate the vibrant beat of African-Canadian heritage as the 3rd edition of the prestigious Pan-Afrikan Drum Festival holds in Canada come July 2025.
The 2025 edition promises to be an unforgettable experience as African and Canadian cultures, through the rhythms, colors, and sounds that embody the unity of both critical cultures, will be showcased. Enthusiasts of music, dance, and cultural expression can look forward to a rich array of exhilarating performances, workshops, Investment forum, as well as artistic displays that define the unique stories and traditions of the drum.
With each beat, the festival is set to inspire a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of people, history, and creativity across continents.
In his words, Prince Segun Akanni said; “I its third edition, the Pan Afrikan Drum Festival has grown to be a prestigious event in the global cultural calendar. This festival is powered by a renowned international media organization established in 2015, The Drum Online Media Incorporation, in collaboration with Global Forum for Human Rights and Sustainable Development. It is driven by a mission to preserve and promote cultural heritage through news, branding, and innovative media reportage.
“The Drum Online Media has dedicated itself to building bridges across continents, ensuring that African stories, art forms and values resonate far beyond borders. As it stages in Canada, the festival invites audiences and participants to connect, experience, and celebrate the rich and aesthetic heritage that unites and uplifts communities worldwide. The festival aligns with a vision of bridging cultural divides and promoting shared values.
“The Global Forum For Human Rights And Sustainable Development’s commitment to human rights and sustainable development adds a profound layer of significance to the event, as it encourages global audiences to embrace diversity and work toward a more inclusive future. Together, these partners have created a space where music becomes a powerful language of peace, unity, and mutual respect, making the 2025 Pan African Drum Festival a landmark celebration of heritage and humanity.
“Following the resounding success of the first two editions, the festival has become a powerful stage for honoring the rich, diverse cultural values of both Canada and Africa. Past editions had welcomed esteemed guests, including prominent African royalties, members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, and well-wishers from around the globe. The festival had enjoyed heart-warming and invigorating messages from Canadian leaders such as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Premier Of Ontario, Premier Doug Ford, Mayor Of Toronto, Mayor Olivia Chow, Mayor Of Brampton, Mayor Patrick Brown, Ooni Of Ife, Ooni Ogunwusi Babatunde Adeyeye Enitan, Nigeria Ambassador to Canada, Ambassador Adeyinka Asekun, Nigerians In Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, among others. The next edition promises to be more exciting, educative and indelible.”
Events being Highlighted for the 2025 Pan Afrikan Drum Festival, include:
Theme: “Revamping Afro-Canadians’ Rich Cultural Heritages through the Drum System for Engendering Global Peace, Justice, and Stronger Institutions”:
Date: Thursday, July 24, 2025 – An Afternoon With Mayor Olivia Chow. Engaging with the Mayor of Toronto in a unique cultural experience.
Investment Forum, Youth Empowerment Forum & Skills Training in Brampton, Ontario. Empowering youth through hands-on skills development.
Friday, July 25, 2025 – Grand Finale at Wesley Banquet Hall, Milvan Dr., North York, Toronto, Ontario.
Red Carpet starts at 5 pm, while the main Event holds at 7 pm. An evening of celebration, networking, and cultural expression, with a dazzling lineup of events.
On Monday, July 28, 2025, “we will embark on historical tour of Canada. A journey that refreshes and exposes all participants to Canada’s mind-boggling heritage sites, celebrating the deep-rooted connections between Canadian and African histories.”
Expected at the 2025 edition are renowned figures from various walks of life or fields, including political leaders, cultural icons, traditional custodians, drum enthusiasts, captains of industry, academics and social influencers from Europe, North America, Asia, the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond.
The festival’s program will include art exhibitions, lectures, fashion shows, a beauty pageant, drum and dance competitions, awards presentation and educational sessions. Designed to entertain, educate, and inspire, the 2025 Pan African Drum Festival will be a landmark celebration of Afro-Canadian heritage and a symbol of unity and cultural pride.
“In all, we’re irrevocably committed to rejigging and revamping all moribund African cultural values, styles and dignity in the 21st century,” Akanni asserts.
