Today, we finally brought to life what has been in the works for a long time – the 2025 Southern California Igbo Day Celebration.
It was a colorful and vibrant event with the rich cultural presence of Igbo states—Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Rivers, and Delta—all proudly represented. Over 1,500 Black/African Americans came together to play, eat, dance, celebrate heritage, and relieve stress in a joyful family-friendly atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the event was the participation of the Center for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), whose mission is to help people live healthier lives, strengthen families, and minimize mental health challenges in our communities.
Throughout the event, we shared practical guidance on healthy living, building stronger families, embracing responsible adulthood, and finding personal relevance through volunteering and helping others achieve their purpose. Some people even volunteered to support what CFHI is doing.
CFHI reached over 150 participants directly. Out of these, 75 individuals documented their details for follow-up support, while many others enjoyed the gifts we shared, including health information bulletins, branded water bottles, and folders. Children and families also received candies, adding sweetness to their day and helping quench hunger and thirst during the celebration.
Special appreciation goes to our Chairperson, Dr. Angela Ofoegbu, for her exceptional leadership; Vice Chair, Dr. Esther Okafor, for her generosity with candies and emotional support; our President, Princess Osita Oleribe, and Treasurer, Delight Osita, for diligently setting up and managing the CFHI booth.
We also extend heartfelt thanks to our dedicated volunteers—Melody and Kelechi Mbiamnozie, and Alpha Osita—for their invaluable support. A special mention goes to Kelechi (popularly known as KJ), who became a favorite among children and adolescents as the enthusiastic chief candy distributor of the day.
We deeply appreciate the Igbo Community Association (ICA) for organizing this memorable program and bringing us all together.
It was truly a successful celebration of culture, health, and community spirit. We look forward with excitement to 2026, when we hope to multiply our impact and reach even more lives.
Report by: Dr. Obinna Oleribe