Collard Greens Cultural Festival

The Shule Mandela Academy stands as the overarching entity of the Original Collard Greens Festival which traces its origins to East Palo Alto, California. Dr. Mama Nobantu Ankoanda initiated the festival in 1998 to generate funds for the Shule Mandela Academy. Presently, there are high expectations for the festival's expansion into various cities, including Chicago, Houston, and Detroit, both nationally and internationally. Since 2010, the festival has been established in Georgia, hosted by three distinct communities within Metro-Atlanta: The Shrine of the Black Madonna, Vine City Opportunity Program, Inc., and the City of Lithonia. These collaborative partnerships have significantly enhanced the Collard Greens Cultural Festival.

We, at the Shule Mandela Academy, are inspired by the connections and friendships forged this year. Our primary objective is to promote the Original Collard Greens Cultural Festival as a platform that celebrates food, family, and community.

Approaching our 15th year in the Metro Atlanta area next year, we've shared our mission with thousands of Georgians and have inspired festivals in Tampa, Detroit, and Philadelphia. Collard Greens, known for sustaining Africans across the diaspora, serve as the focal point of our festival, allowing us to share our appreciation for this traditional food with a healthy twist. Through our Wellness and Sustainability pavilions, we expand conversations about our mental and physical health, families, and the environment. Sproutland is dedicated to nurturing positive living in youth through creative play, art, workshops, storytelling, and drumming. Naturally, the main stage always showcases dynamic artists, a highlight of our event.

In 2023, we found a new home in Snellville, GA, a 150-acre family legacy property at risk. We've pledged to support efforts to raise awareness by partnering with them. This location presents an opportunity to broaden our audience and forge stronger connections with the local community and schools. This year, we welcomed over 2,000 attendees, including participants in the Black Sustainability Summit. Next year's event promises to be even more thrilling and impactful.