Our festival is a celebration of the vibrant tapestry of cultures that converge in Colorado, showcasing cinematic works that illuminate the movement of peoples and the richness of communities across the globe. From the ancient Greek origins of the term 'diaspora'—meaning 'to scatter about'—we draw inspiration to explore stories of migration, identity, and belonging through the art of cinema.

As an initiative of the Askkanwii Filmmaking Hub Incubator, a nonprofit organization based in Denver; the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding and connection. Through a curated selection of films, documentaries, shorts, and panel discussions and workshops; we invite audiences to embark on a journey of discovery—a journey that reveals the beauty and complexity of human experiences, both near and far.

A unique aspect of our festival is our collaboration with Askkanwii filmmaking hubs in Africa. We are committed to enhancing the quality of filmmaking and storytelling among young African filmmakers, empowering them to take control of the narrative in telling African stories for and by African filmmakers. By supporting these talented individuals, we aim to amplify authentic voices and ensure that African stories are told with the depth and richness they deserve.

Additionally, we are proud to make the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival a family-friendly event. We plan to include a special kid-friendly screening section, scheduled for Saturday, to accommodate families. This section will offer films suitable for children, providing an engaging and educational experience for young viewers. This emphasis on family inclusivity sets our festival apart, offering a unique opportunity for parents to share the joy of cinema with their children.

Join us at the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival, where every story is a thread in the beautiful tapestry of our shared human experience.

Schedule of Events

August 28, 2025

5:15 pm - 5:30 pm
Welcome to Opening Night! Askkanwii/Arts & Venues/Media

Location: Sie Film Center 2510 E. Colfax Ave, Denver, Co 80206. We are rolling out the red carpet for you on Opening Night! Our photographer is ready to take your picture as you arrive, so wear your favorite outfit and get ready to celebrate with us!

5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Networking Cafe with Charcuterie Buffet
Catch up with friends or meet new ones while filling your belly with tasty bites.

6:30 pm - 7:45 pm
Film Screening with Question & Answer

8:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Musical Performance with The Yermande Family & Oumar N Diaye

August 29, 2025

9:00 am - 11:00 am
Welcome & Breakfast Networking Cafe (Reception Room at Vintage Theatre)

Lucy Coffee
Location: Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton Street, Aurora Co 80010. Lucy Coffee House will be hosting breakfast during the Networking Cafe in the Reception Room between 9 - 11 a.m. Stop by to grab a bite to eat and say hello!

9:30 am - 10:30 am
Cultural Diplomacy Forum (Room 1)

10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Diasporic Art Exposition (Room 2)

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Lunch Break (Food Truck Outside @ Vintage Theatre)

9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Mouna Boutique Tent Exhibition
Stop by, we'll be open all day!

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Film Screenings (Room 1)

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Film & Fashion Presentation (Room 1)

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Women in the Film Industry Panel Discussion

6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Welcome & Networking Cafe (Reception Room)

Location: Village Exchange Center 1609 Havana Street, Aurora, Co 80010
6:00 am - 8:30 pm

Film Screenings + Question & Answer Session (Theater)

8:45 pm - 10:00 pm
Performance by Leslie Sosa & Ridge Road 8

10:00 pm - 12:00 am (+1 day)
Diasporic Cultural After-Party

Location: Zula Lounge 1121 S. Peoria St, Aurora Co 80012 - Food, Drinks, DJ Music. Come out to mix and mingle with Askanwii Entertainment!

August 30, 2025

10:00 am - 11:00 am
Welcome & Breakfast Networking Cafe

Lucy Coffee

Location: Village Exchange Center 1609 Havana Street, Aurora, Co 80010 - Lucy Coffee House will be hosting breakfast during the Networking Cafe in the Reception Room between 10 - 11 a.m. Stop by to grab a bite to eat and say hello!

10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Diasporic Art Expo (Gallery Floor)

10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Diasporic Cultural Exhibition Tent (Village Exchange Center Parking Lot)
Exhibits from Cameroon, Ethiopia, Senegal, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gambia and more!

10:00 am - 11:00 am
Askkanwii Filmmaking Academy (Theater)
Lysi/AFA

11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Film Screenings

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Diasporic Cinema Opportunity Panel Discussion (Theater)

2:15 pm - 3:15 pm
Film Industry Opportunity in Colorado Panel Discussion (Annex 1 Room)

3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Health & Wellness Panel Discussion (Annex 2 Room)

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Diasporic Cultural Concert

Location: Village Exchange Center 1609 Havana Street, Aurora, Co 80010 - Musical Performance by Oumar Ndiaye & Michael Chipman, with Opener Tariku Adebe

10:00 pm - 2:00 am (+1 day)
Diasporic Cultural After-Party

Location: Zula Lounge 1121 S. Peoria St, Aurora Co 80012 - Food Drinks, DJ Music. Come out to mix and mingle with Askanwii Entertainment!

Date:
August 28-30, 2025

Location:
Various Venues at Denver, CO

Click here for Tickets

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