We Speak Events
Uniting Christian Creatives: The Inaugural CLEAN Festival Comes to Accra This December
This December, Accra will host the inaugural CLEAN Festival, a groundbreaking event celebrating the intersection of Christian faith, African culture, and the arts. Scheduled from December 20th to 28th, the festival aims to bring together Christian creatives from across West Africa, the diaspora, and beyond. Through various artistic expressions, attendees will explore their faith while fostering a deeper connection to their heritage.
The vision for the CLEAN Festival is encapsulated in the phrase “Christ’s Creatives Chilling.” It offers a space for creatives to meet, network, and fellowship in a relaxed atmosphere. The initiative also addresses pressing cultural and spiritual trends, particularly among younger generations of African heritage, who are increasingly reconnecting with their traditional roots. While this renewed interest in heritage is enriching, it has sometimes led to religious pluralism or syncretism—a blending of indigenous practices with Christianity. Additionally, there is a misconception that the arts are incompatible with Christianity or African identity, with some even labeling Christianity as “the White Man’s religion.” CLEAN seeks to challenge these narratives by creating a space where attendees can explore the synergy between African culture and Christian faith. The festival also highlights the rich history of Christianity in Africa, demonstrating its deep-rooted presence on the continent.
The festival’s mission includes building a community of Christian creatives, engaging in meaningful conversations about art and Christianity, exploring the relationship between Christianity and African traditions, and showcasing diverse art forms such as fashion, literature, and film. These objectives are woven into the festival’s lineup of key events.
The festival kicks off on December 20th with “Christ and Canvases” at Ten25, a hands-on artistic expression day where participants can enjoy food and painting with a stunning view of the skies. On December 27th, “The Brunch” at Nouveau Accra offers an opportunity to eat, network, and connect with creatives and others interested in art and Christianity. The festival culminates on December 28th with the “Expo” at Jambo, an exhibition and networking event showcasing diverse art forms, including fashion, literature, and film. The Expo will also feature panel discussions and interactive opportunities for attendees to engage with the themes of the festival.
CLEAN will delve into key themes such as Christianity’s presence in public spaces versus its representation in visual arts, addressing why Christian influence is prominent in West African society but less visible in the visual arts. The festival will also foster discussions on integrating African culture and Christian faith without compromising core Christian principles. Additionally, it will explore the historical relationship between Christianity and creativity, drawing inspiration from Western contexts and encouraging a similar narrative for African artists.
CLEAN invites artists, creatives, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of faith and culture to join this unique movement. For more information and updates, visit the official website.
For inquiries, contact Kweku Bimpong at admin@cleangh.com or 0551429835. Stay connected with CLEAN on social media: Instagram, X (@projectcleangh), Facebook (@CleanGH), and LinkedIn.
Acclaimed performer, advocate, television host, and community leader Wendy Stuart, also known to many as Wendy Darling, was honored with the Activism Award at the 2026 Catskills Pride Awards Night held at The Eldred Preserve in New York.
The event celebrated individuals whose work has made a lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community through advocacy, leadership, artistic achievement, and public service. Among a distinguished group of honorees, Stuart was recognized for decades of unwavering commitment to visibility, inclusion, and support for LGBTQ+ causes.
For many in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, Wendy Stuart has long been a familiar and respected voice in the LGBTQ+ community. Her activism dates back decades, including participation in the historic New York City Pride March and service as an original board member of Triversity, The Pride Center serving communities throughout the tri-state region.
Beyond her advocacy work, Stuart has used her talents in entertainment and media to amplify LGBTQ+ voices. As host of Triversity Talk and co-host of If These Walls Could Talk, she has provided a platform for activists, artists, community leaders, and changemakers whose stories might otherwise go unheard.
During the awards ceremony, attendees celebrated Stuart’s remarkable ability to combine entertainment with purpose. Her efforts as a member of the Imperial Court of New York have also helped raise awareness and funding for countless LGBTQ+ organizations and initiatives over the years.
Standing before an audience of supporters, fellow honorees, and community leaders, Stuart accepted the recognition with the same passion that has defined her career. The honor reflects not only her decades of activism but also her continuing commitment to education, advocacy, and community engagement.
The Activism Award serves as a fitting tribute to a woman whose influence extends far beyond the stage and television screen. Through her work as a performer, advocate, and media personality, Wendy Stuart has consistently demonstrated that visibility matters and that one voice can inspire meaningful change.
Her personal mission remains as powerful today as it has throughout her career:
“I advocate, I educate, I entertain. I’m blessed to do so.”
As Catskills Pride recognized its 2026 honorees, Wendy Stuart’s award stood as a celebration of a lifetime devoted to uplifting others, strengthening communities, and ensuring that LGBTQ+ voices continue to be heard, respected, and celebrated.
Other honorees at the event included actress Melissa Gilbert, community leader Paula Campbell, artists Barry Becker and Tony Coscia, and artistic achievement recipient Nonna Hall, making the evening a memorable celebration of leadership, service, and pride throughout the region.
Watch Wendy Stuart’s speech at the Catskills Pride Awards on Youtube here:
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