House of Africa

House of Africa
Pape Ndiaye Balley

Right in the heart of Plaza-Midwood proper sits a boutique that has been there for three decades. House of Africa has long been the go-to spot for imported gifts plus beautiful hand-carved statues and instruments (most made right there in their studio). While it is a shop, it is more like a gallery with amazing things as far as the eye can see. Owner Pape Ndiaye Balley, from Senegal, is not only a purveyor of fine African arts, but he is a “cultural connector”, a mentor, a leader, and an immeasurably important part of our locale.

When you speak to him, you just feel like you’re in the presence of nobility. Pape says, “The House of Africa is here in the community, but our roots are African and our hearts remain with the Motherland. We live here. We work here. We serve here. But we never forget where we come from. Africa is not a trend, Africa is home. We continue to honor our culture, our history, and our people every day.”

Founder of the Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas, Pape has laid down a stable foundation in the area, has built strong relationships, is a very active philanthropist, and he receives his accolades for all of it. “The recognition is not just for me. It is for my family. For the elders who came before me. For the House of Africa and Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas community. For everyone who believes in preserving culture, educating our people, and building bridges between Africa and the diaspora. I am thankful to all … who support, who encourage, and who continue to walk this journey with me.”

It was only a few years ago that Juneteenth (a celebration for the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States) became recognized nationally and federally, but Pape emphasizes that “it is more than an African holiday. It is a piece of American history. My grandmother used to say that when you travel, you need to get direction. Culture and heritage are the only direction that can help you move forward”.

Supporting Black-owned businesses isn’t just “hip” during Black history month, patronizing them all year long is essential to keeping these social institutions in our city. They make Charlotte’s landscape more diverse and it is up to us to keep our independent business owners in the green. Go see Pape sometime soon.

“If you can’t get to Africa, we’ll bring Africa to you.”

1215 Thomas Ave., 28205
704-376-6160
FB: House of Africa Online

www.JuneteethOfTheCarolinas.com
June 18^th-21^st (check website for events & locations)

words & photos: Ellen Gurley
illustration: John Burgin

Post Views: 11