Note: Turay's Afrika House has closed due to fire.

What’s this Turay Afrika House Project all about?

Entertaining Afro-Caribbean social activities, African restaurants, bars, an art gallery, hair braiding salon and media outfit. It’s a branch of a multi-purpose cultural company we have put in place as a one-stop spot for everything in African, Afro-Caribbean and black arts and culture. We also run an online magazine, lensafrik.com.

Why does Beijing need this project?

Beijing is one of China’s biggest and most cosmopolitan cities. The ball starts rolling here. But there is a huge lack of a positive African presence, and so many stereotypes. We want to sensitize the Beijing community to the presence of a positive African community. We aim to build a network here for all people that love people without bias of race, color or culture.

What do you hope to achieve?

Unification: one world, one people, one peace, one unity. This sounds like a daydream, but there is no better way to make a dream reality than starting now.

What are some of the most popular events there?

From Thursday down to Sunday every week we have social events. Every Friday is Africa Night, and Saturday is Roots Rock Reggae Night. There’ll be live band performances from selected underground Beijing bands.

Anything coming up we should know about?

Yes, quite a lot. But I think I’d rather leave you wondering. Curiosity sells better, and we’re selling something positive that doesn’t need glaring signals to announce it.