A Celebration of Black Music, Art, and African Legacy
Featuring Award-Winning Rap Artist Rapsody, Actor Wood Harris, Actresses
Cynthia McWilliams & Ta’Rhonda Jones to raise funds for mental health services
in Chicago!
Chicago, IL – June 2025 — This summer, Chicago will experience a powerful celebration of culture, creativity, and community healing as the IBUKUN Hip Hop Art & Culture Fest takes over the Zhou B Art Center (1029 W. 35th Street, Chicago) on Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 3:00pm – 8:00pm. The event is hosted by Ibukun Comprehensive Community Services and is more than a cultural event, this all-day festival is also a fundraiser dedicated to supporting mental health services for disadvantaged youth, families, and underserved communities across the city. Curated as a multi-sensory experience, the festival will showcase the richness of Black expression through music, discussion, visual art and fashion — all while uplifting mental wellness and collective healing.
Event Highlights Include:
Engaging Panel Discussion:
Moderated by relationship expert Love McPherson, this dynamic conversation will center art, identity and emotional wellness, featuring:
●Dr. Pamela Blackman, CEO, BBF Center for the Arts
●Ta’Rhonda Jones, acclaimed actress and musician
●Cynthia McWilliams, acclaimed actress
●Dr. Obari Cartman, psychologist and cultural thought leader
●Dr. Elaine Smith, psychotherapist
Live Performances: An all-day lineup of Chicago’s rising musical talent including Asha Omega, IAmGawd, J Bambii, Philmore Greene, and headliner Grammy Award winner rapper Rapsody, one of hip hop’s most powerful voices.
Celebrity Hosts: Nationally known actor Wood Harris and actress Cynthia McWilliams will serve as engaging hosts throughout the day.
Black Art Gallery hosted by Starving Artists: A stunning exhibit featuring top emerging Black visual artists in Chicago, offering a range of works rooted in identity, resistance, and joy.
Marketplace & Fashion Showcase: An interactive space spotlighting local small businesses, artisan vendors, and emerging Black fashion designers.
Support a Greater Mission
This festival directly supports IBUKUN Comprehensive Community Services, Inc., with proceeds going toward expanding mental health programming for youth and families in underserved communities. Attendees are not only celebrating culture — they are investing in healing and change.
Tickets & Information
For full event schedule and ticket information, visit: www.ibukunfest.com
Supporting Partners: Starving Artists, Moor’s Beer
About IBUKUN Comprehensive Community Services, Inc.
Based in the heart of Englewood, IBUKUN Comprehensive Community Services is anonprofit organization that provides critical mental health services, youth counseling, and culturally relevant community support throughout Chicago. Founded by the late Dr. Christian Adeyemi Akiwowo, a passionate Nigerian leader of Yoruba descent, IBUKUN was built on the belief that healing must be rooted in fairness, respect, and the recognition of shared humanity. Today, IBUKUN continues to honor his legacy by creating safe spaces that integrate mental wellness, creativity, and cultural pride — especially for Black youth and marginalized families across the city.
