Former two-time UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya, also known as Stylebender, made history last weekend by hosting Afrosoul — a landmark cultural event destined to be remembered by generations of Africans living and growing up in New Zealand.

In partnership with Mitch Lowe, the creative force behind Bay Dreams and Soundsplash, the main event featured none other than Burna Boy — the Grammy-winning Nigerian singer and songwriter celebrated worldwide as The African Giant.

From Wellington to Auckland, and from Lagos to the South Island, tens of thousands gathered to experience African food, music, dance, fashion, and culture.

As Kiwi–Kenyan rapper JessB put it during her set: “There’s so many different types of people here and I’m so grateful that you guys have, you know, turned out to share in our culture and what we have to offer.

“This is what I want to be a part of and it’s so beautiful seeing all of you guys in the crowd, all of my community is here, all of the different communities that I’ve been a part of growing up, and this is really what it means to be in Aotearoa New Zealand,” she said.

From the beats to the bites, DJ Banty — who also owns and operates the Nigerian street food brand B’Buka — kept the crowd (and the artists) well-fed, with her food line never slowing down all day.

Supported by Chef’s Kiss DJs Katya and Morningsteppa, partners in music, life, and the kitchen, the team brought their signature blend of beats and flavours in perfect harmony.

All in all, Afrosoul was a resounding success — a celebration of identity, creativity, and unity. Dubbed “a new chapter for Africans in Aotearoa,” the festival marks what many hope will be the first of many to come.

Watch the full video with DJ Banty and Chef’s Kiss DJ’s below: