As Black History Month unfolds, there’s no better time to celebrate Black culture, community, and excellence. And what better way to do so than by attending one of Iowa’s most significant and long-standing cultural events—I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa? This annual festival, led by the dynamic Betty Andrews, has become a staple in the Des Moines area, bringing thousands together in the spirit of education, history, and celebration.
The Legacy of I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa
Founded in 1998, I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa was created in response to a national call for African American arts and cultural programming. What started as a small gathering has since evolved into a massive, multi-day festival, attracting attendees from across the state. Over the years, the festival has expanded its offerings, including an Education Day, a Celebration Day, and the prestigious Embracing Excellence Gala.
As Betty Andrews put it in our conversation on the Black. Girl. Iowa. podcast, “Culture is what feeds us. Culture is how we survive in this world.” And this festival is a perfect embodiment of that belief—bridging the past, present, and future of Black Iowans.
A Breakdown of the Festival’s Events
Embracing Excellence Gala
The weekend kicks off with a formal gala honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the Black community in Iowa. This year, honorees included Ako Abdul-Samad, Teree Caldwell-Johnson (posthumously), and Dwight Jackson, with Hadley Harvey receiving the Evelyn K. Davis Youth Award. Hosted by Miss Iowa 2024, Abigaille Batu-Tiako, the gala was a night of recognition, elegance, and celebration.
Reflecting on the importance of this event, Andrews shared, “We are putting our best on because we are celebrating the best—ourselves and our community.”
Education Day
Designed for middle and high school students, Education Day offers an interactive learning experience, connecting students with colleges, professionals, and hands-on STEM activities. With a keynote address from Miss Iowa-America Abigaille Batu-Tiako and various sessions on career exploration and personal development, this day is all about investing in the next generation.
Andrews emphasized, “Education Day was created to ensure that we’re not just celebrating, but also empowering young people with the knowledge and resources to pursue their dreams.”
Celebration Day
The heart of the festival, Celebration Day, is a full-day event featuring performances, vendors, and a health and wellness expo. One of the most anticipated highlights is the celebrity headliner—this year, the festival welcomes the talented actress Meagan Good! Additionally, the event will kick off with a “State of the Black Experience” discussion, offering a platform to reflect on the progress and challenges faced by Black Iowans.
Speaking on the importance of this day, Andrews stated, “We purposely bring a national spotlight to Iowa’s Black community. People often ask, ‘There are Black people in Iowa?’—and we show them, yes, we are here, and we matter.”
Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, explore Black-owned businesses, and indulge in delicious food (pro tip: get there early for the oxtails!). The festival will close with a powerful Praise and Worship session, featuring the return of the Battle of the Choirs, an event that captivated audiences last year.
More Than a Festival—A Movement
Beyond entertainment and celebration, I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa serves as a reminder of the resilience, creativity, and impact of Black Iowans. It provides an essential space for cultural affirmation, historical reflection, and community building. As Betty Andrews emphasized, “Being Black in Iowa is a unique experience. It comes with its own challenges, but it also comes with its own joys. This festival is about lifting up those joys and ensuring our voices are heard.”
For me, this event is deeply personal. I’ve attended since I was a child, and now, as part of the planning committee, I see firsthand the passion and dedication that goes into making this festival an unforgettable experience. I am committed to supporting this event for as long as I can, and I encourage everyone—regardless of background—to come out and experience it for themselves.
Join the Celebration!
Mark your calendars: I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa will take place on February 7th and 8th, 2025, at the Horizons Event Center in Clive. Whether you’re coming for the performances, the food, the networking opportunities, or simply to immerse yourself in the culture, there’s something for everyone at this incredible festival.
To stay updated, visit the festival’s official website and follow them on social media. And of course, you can always tune into Black. Girl. Iowa. for more insights and discussions on Black culture in the Midwest.
See you at I’ll Make Me A World in Iowa! Let’s celebrate, uplift, and honor our community—together.
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