In 2021, Sade Fadipe was inspired to conduct wellbeing interviews with Creatives of ethnically diverse backgrounds like herself, exploring how they coped with the cancellation of events, contracts, and book launches during uncertain times. These conversations culminated in a virtual showcase of authors that laid the foundation for an annual celebration of literature, culture, and heritage. This debut event, streamed live from Chelmsford, Essex, on October 29, 2021, as part of Black History Month celebrations, marked the birth of an ever-growing global community of families seeking culturally rich stories.Â
Despite being listed on Eventbrite for only two weeks, the inaugural CALFE recorded 416 page views and welcomed 55 families—nearly full capacity. The event was brought to life by technical support from Nurturing Foundations, Jayson-the-Writer, and Adesola of Kids Literary Circle, with book reviews provided by The Bookworm Café, Readland NG, and Esopip Africa. Hosted by Ayodele Edwards and Godwin Daudu, the event showcased the works of celebrated authors, including: Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie, Bolanle Ogunnaike, Uchechukwu Mba-Ezoukwu, Izehi Anuge, Bunmi Aboderin-Talabi, Sade Fadipe, Dele & Louisa Olafuyi, Olamide Fafemi and Oyinda Kazeem, Poet, Stella Fawehinmi Ojediran. Trailers and pre-recordings from authors Carrol May Nelson, SPK Mushambi, and Habi Akinteye added vibrancy between readings.
