Finding Community: How HBCU Students Can Connect with the African Diaspora Abroad

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Finding Community: How HBCU Students Can Connect with the African Diaspora Abroad

Whether you’re in the U.S. or on the shores of West Africa, one thing remains true for Black students: community is essential to our sense of belonging. For many students, the idea of study abroad can feel overwhelming because it means stepping away from the familiar. When community is such a big part of your identity, you may ask: What happens when I’m in a new country without that foundation?

Building connections with the African Diaspora abroad can feel just as natural and meaningful as connecting with community at home. With IFSA, you’re never alone in this process. Our commitment to inclusive excellence means making sure every student feels welcome and valued. You’ll have tools and support to create meaningful connections inside and outside the classroom—so you can thrive in your new environment.

Connecting with Black communities through food and shared interests

Food is a universal connector. Many lifelong friendships can begin in a university cafeteria, sharing a meal. While you study abroad, visiting restaurants that serve dishes you love or exploring local flavors can spark conversations and friendships. Visiting Afro-Caribbean, African, or Black-owned restaurants is a great way to connect with the African Diaspora abroad and meet people from a similar cultural background.

Community also grows from common interests. Whether you’re passionate about sports, fashion, dance, music, or faith, seek out spaces where those interests come alive. IFSA also emphasizes intercultural agility, encouraging you to connect not only with peers who share your cultural background but also with those who share your passions. These connections can lead to deeper empathy and understanding—skills that are invaluable for personal growth.

“I attended soccer and rugby games, which are an important part of culture in London. Playing club basketball allowed me to share a bit of my culture by teaching others how basketball is played in the U.S. I valued the chance to both learn and give back.”
—Axel A., Amherst College, How Leaving the U.S. to Study Abroad Changed My Life, SOAS, University of London

Attend global events that celebrate Black culture and heritage

Many students study abroad to immerse themselves in new cultures, and connecting with the African Diaspora is a powerful way to do that. What might surprise you is how vibrant Black culture is across the globe—even in places not widely highlighted in the media. Experiencing these communities firsthand can be one of the most rewarding parts of study abroad.

Through IFSA’s Career Accelerator® programs, you’ll have opportunities to engage with Black culture three dynamic cities: London, Barcelona, and Prague. Each is home to an array of cultural events that bring the Black community together:

Notting Hill Carnival (London). This world-famous celebration of Caribbean culture features vibrant parades, live music, dance, and street art, transforming the city every August.
Afro Brunch (Barcelona). A cultural gathering blending Afrobeats and R&B, food, dance, and community to celebrate Black culture in a relaxed, social setting.
Black Music Festival (Barcelona). An annual festival spotlighting Afro-diasporic music genres, showcasing international and local artists across soul, jazz, hip-hop, and reggae.
OYOFE African Street Dance Festival (Barcelona). This high-energy festival dedicated to African and diasporic street-dance styles, features performances, dance battles, and workshops led by global dancers.
Prague Annual Festival of World Cultures. A multicultural festival highlighting global traditions through music, dance, crafts, and cuisine from cultures around the world.
Prague Kwanza Festival. This lively community-centered event focuses on African and diasporic music and dance.
Zaggy Night Fest Africa (Prague). A vibrant nightlife event that celebrates African music, dance, and fashion, bringing together Prague’s Black community.

These events aren’t just fun—they’re gateways to community. Meeting one person often leads to meeting many more, creating a ripple effect that can last long after your program ends.

“I became more cognizant of the myriad experiences Black people have around the world, and prouder of the richness of my own heritage. My friends introduced me to a new world of languages and rituals, and graciously welcomed me into their space. We had intense kitchen conversations about gentrification and jollof rice…We talked about the times we felt unseen and the people that had given us a sense of home, of community.”
—Francesca W., Columbia University, Exploring African-American Identity in London, King’s College London Partnership

Start your journey

Study abroad is about discovering new parts of yourself. Through IFSA Career Accelerator programs, HBCU students gain hands-on experience, expand global networks, and prepare for careers across borders, leaving a lasting impact on how they see the world and their future. Explore how IFSA supports HBCU students through career-focused study abroad today and start building your global future.

Kokayi Postell | IFSA Assistant Manager | Partner Engagement