Auckland | Webfit News | October 2025
A growing community-led initiative is reshaping the way health awareness is shared among Auckland’s African diaspora. After years of quiet activity following COVID-19, the African Health and Wellbeing Awareness Program is bringing people together again through creativity, culture, and connection.
Founded more than 11 years ago, the organization has become a safe space where people can learn, talk, and access vital information about health and wellbeing. The initiative was revived during the pandemic, when many members of the African community felt isolated and overwhelmed by the flood of health information.
“We realized that people wanted reliable information but did not know where to turn,” said one of the organisers. “Our goal was to build a platform where everyone feels comfortable asking questions and finding support.”
From Online Workshops to Community Events
The journey began with small online workshops and Zoom sessions during COVID-19. These soon evolved into Facebook Live sessions, which made it easier for people to join without needing special links or registrations. The response was positive, and the idea of running physical events started to take shape.
By 2023, the team began hosting community awareness days, focusing on prevention, mental health, and access to professional services. Many of these events were designed to help people better understand how the New Zealand healthcare system works.
“In many African countries, healthcare is expensive and often out of reach,” explained one of the coordinators. “Here, services exist, but people may not know how to access them. We are trying to bridge that gap through awareness and education.”
A Cultural Approach to Health Awareness
This year’s main event will take place in Henderson, building on the success of earlier workshops held in March. It will blend cultural celebration with health education, featuring stalls, live performances, and information sessions from various service providers.
Organizers describe the event as “a familiar, friendly, and open space” where people can learn about health in a setting that feels welcoming. While it is designed especially for the African community, everyone is invited to attend.
“All the health services represented are open to everyone, so the event is inclusive,” said the organizer. “It’s about learning from one another and building social connections.”
The initiative is supported by the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and the Auckland Council’s Welcoming Communities program, to help run the event. The venue and equipment are provided in kind by local partners who believe in the mission.
Growing Support and Partnerships
Although most of the team members are volunteers, their efforts are gaining recognition. The group is now collaborating with Waitematā Health Board and West Fono, as well as working toward partnerships with the National Manager for Asian and Ethnic Health Services.
“It’s important that we work in coordination with government and local health leaders,” said the organizer. “Community efforts are powerful, but they grow stronger when supported by health professionals and policymakers.”
Guests expected at the event include representatives from the Ministry of Ethnic Communities and senior public health officials.
Looking Ahead
The organization plans to host this health and well-being festival annually, with hopes of expanding to other regions in the future.
“This is just the beginning,” said the organizer. “We want to make it easier for people to connect with health services and build a culture of prevention and openness.”
The upcoming event reflects the resilience and unity of Auckland’s African community, bringing together music, learning, and shared purpose – reminding everyone that community health starts with connection.
Webfit News is proud to be the official media partner supporting this community-led initiative, helping to amplify its message of health awareness, connection, and inclusion across New Zealand.
References
- African Health and Wellbeing Awareness Program, Auckland – Community Interview, October 2025
- Ministry for Ethnic Communities – Community Development Grant Summary 2025
- Auckland Council Welcoming Communities – Event Partnership Report, 2025
- Webfit News field interview with event organizers, Henderson, October 2025
