Oshunbumi Fernandez-West heads the ODUNDE Festival, the largest African-American festival in the U.S. After taking over the festival at a young age, Fernandez-West gracefully fulfilled her role, expanding the festival so that it now has a $30 million economic impact on the State of Pennsylvania. She also expanded the brand into ODUNDE365, allowing her to provide year-round African-American programming in schools, community centers and public venues. This includes cultural classes in African Dance, Afrobeat Hip Hop, Yoga, Karate, Modeling and a array of other programs.. Fernandez-West is often asked to speak on her work to increase cultural awareness and expression.
What is a defining moment in your career and life?
The defining moment in my career and life was when my mother fell ill and could not longer lead ODUNDE because of her health. At the age of 22, I had to take the baton of leadership from my mother and take ODUNDE to the next level. My mother had done such an awesome job of educating and teaching me CEO position, that when it was my time to be the CEO of ODUNDE it was second nature to me.
What challenges have you faced as a woman of color in your field and how did you overcome them?
The one challenge I have faced in my field has been my age. Most people have known me since I’ve been a little girl, so most people still see me as “little Bumi” and I kindly remind them that I am full grown woman who has been the leader of ODUNDE since 1996. My leadership is the reason that ODUNDE has a $30 million economic impact on the State of Pennsylvania and a $28 million economic on the City of Philadelphia in a 10-hour period.
What woman inspires you and why?
The woman that inspires me is my mother Lois Fernandez. EVERYTHING I am and EVERYTHING I will ever be in life is because of her. I was my mother’s shadow, so that is the reason I know how to handle any type of situation or negative person. My mother taught me at a very young age “That most people minds are no bigger than the block they grew up”. “That is the reason why I have a very small circle of friends that I trust and respect”.
What is your advice to the younger generation of women coming after you?
My advice to the younger generation of women coming after me is always “Love yourself first”. Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you and who challenge you to be a better person and you MUST be immune to the word “NO”!!
What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you?
Being a part of the African Diaspora means to me that I am always connected to my ancestors who have come before me. They guide me and protect me at all times. Knowing that always allows me to never be fearful because I know that they are always with me.
