In a time when cultural identity is increasingly shaped by technology and rapid change, Africa Day Australia hosted an insightful and timely forum at the Parliament of Victoria titled “Advancing the African Australian Agenda”. The event brought together community leaders, cultural custodians, youth advocates, and policymakers to explore one of the most urgent questions facing the African diaspora in Australia: How can we preserve and pass on African culture, heritage, and language across generations in a multicultural society?
Africa Day Forum held at the parliament of Victoria in Melbourne (Photo source: Linked in/Qiniso Dube)
Held in the symbolic heart of Victorian governance, the forum served as both a platform for critical reflection and a launchpad for future-focused strategies. The discussions were rich, collaborative, and deeply rooted in shared values of identity, continuity, and community strength.
A Wake-Up Call: Cultural Loss in the Age of AI
One of the most thought-provoking themes that emerged from the dialogue was the concept of AI erasure — the risk that African Australian voices, stories, and languages may be sidelined or erased in the digital age if they are not actively preserved.
Quoting a speaker at the forum, the phrase “When an elder dies, a library burns” struck a powerful chord with attendees. It reminded all present that elders are the living repositories of knowledge, history, and oral tradition. As artificial intelligence systems increasingly shape what knowledge is visible and accessible, there is a real risk that communities without digital representation will be written out of the emerging cultural record.
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The inaugural Afropreneurs summit in Hobart Tasmania- click and book your seat
“There is an urgent need for African Australians to take ownership of their stories in the digital space,” one panellist said. “AI can be a powerful tool for preservation — but only if we use it to record, share, and celebrate our voices, in our languages, on our terms.”
Beyond Talk: Turning Dialogue into Action
The forum was not only about identifying problems but also about generating solutions. Panellists and audience members alike were eager to move beyond conversation and into coordinated community action.
Ideas raised included the creation of digital storytelling archives, intergenerational language programs, youth-led media projects, and AI-powered platforms that reflect the richness of African heritage. Traditional storytelling methods — such as fireside narratives — were also celebrated as enduring tools that can now be blended with modern technology.
Afropreneurs Summit Australia to kick off the 2025 season with Hobart Tasmania
In closing, organisers emphasised a continued commitment to building a strong, connected African Australian community. The next phase, they said, is to translate these insights into tangible initiatives that engage families, empower youth, and ensure cultural continuity for generations to come.
Africa Day Australia extended its gratitude to all panellists, partners, and attendees for contributing to a solutions-focused, inclusive conversation.
