by Charles A. Lewis | IMHO Talk Show
Peace & blessings to all. It was a honor for all who embody the Soul of Cville! It’s potential from its inception has gotten closer & closer each year. The experiences and memories created has proven and reassures us: that we can produce and reap the rewards of a celebratory festival that is for us. Most importantly it was by us; that is the most meaningful part to me. This example now sets the momentum for future generations, that we own and are good stewards of our culture. It embodies all the forms of black beauty and black excellence. Businesses, organizations, performers, artists, culinary, and the list goes on and on. Even though it’s hard to pick a favorite… The recognition of each other via Best in Black and circulating of the dollar amongst black businesses. The dynamic range of age and style of performers, stylist and many more captivated this moment. To the finale after party, it makes you hope & believe that black love would never end. I’m excited and grateful to be a part of this movement in history. What a time to be alive!
by Leah Puryear | Former Charlottesville City Councilor
For the past three years, I have had the opportunity to see the Soul of Cville grow and develop. The sense of community and enrichment is evident with each year’s growth. I cannot begin to imagine all that goes on behind the scenes, but this event always appears to be effortless. The fashions always catch my eye and with the introduction of teenagers, it adds an extra special touch. The idea of bringing a community together and giving a voice to the African American vendors and talents within Charlottesville and Central Virginia is both refreshing and informative. Although, I am not a metrologist, I am always concerned about the weather for Soul of Cville, however, the weather has been on our side, even in the hottest of days. I continue to enjoy the fashion show and the energy this event brings to Charlottesville.
by Alex Bryant | IX Art Park Former Executive Director
Charlottesville has always been home to a vibrant, diverse community, but for too long, that diversity wasn’t fully celebrated or even acknowledged. As Executive Director at Ix Art Park, my team and I set out to create a space that showcased the city’s rich cultures and talents, with a focus on uplifting Black excellence. Soul of Cville emerged from a collaboration of programs and changemakers determined to amplify their impact and reclaim Charlottesville’s narrative.
One of the most powerful pieces from the first year was the “There Are Black People in the Future” community mural, created with Jay Simple of the Bridge PAI. Inspired by Alisha Wormsley’s series, the mural debuted during the first Soul of Cville and is refreshed annually to reflect our community’s growing unity. Personally, witnessing the love and compassion expressed through bold colors and powerful messages moved me deeply, especially on the eve of my daughter’s birth, as I knew then that we were sowing the seeds of something bigger than ourselves.
Soul of Cville has always been a celebration of collective strength. Seeing people from all over the area come together to witness, reflect, and celebrate is incredibly powerful, and I’m grateful to have been part of its inaugural year. Soul isn’t just a festival—it’s a celebration of our community coming together to uplift one another.
by Brandon “LeeBangah” Dudley | Recording Artist
I’m Brandon Dudley, also known as LeeBangah, a hip-hop artist from Charlottesville, Virginia. I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on the Soul of Cville festival, an event that stands as a beacon of opportunity for hip-hop artists in our city. This festival fosters unity among all races and nationalities, creating a vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape.
Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of performing at the festival, and I’ve witnessed firsthand how it has helped my reputation flourish. The festival attracts visitors from surrounding areas, eager to experience the dynamic cultural scene that Charlottesville has to offer.
I celebrate the remarkable growth of this platform, which has been made possible by the generous support of esteemed sponsors, talented models, captivating live bands, dedicated vendors, and our engaged community. My sincere appreciation goes out to 101.3 Jamz, Chic and Classy, Vinegarhill Ix Park, and numerous others who have laid the groundwork for emerging musicians, dancers, and entertainers.
Thank you again to everyone involved. This is just the beginning, and I look forward to seeing how the Soul of Cville festival continues to evolve and inspire.
by Daniel Fairley | 100 Black Men of Central Virginia
I love being a part of Best in Black Cville showcase held during the Soul of Cville. Standing on stage and speaking to the crowd during that event was the proudest I’ve ever felt as a Black man in Charlottesville. That moment gave me the chance to step back and reflect on the community that has supported me since I first arrived here, back when I didn’t know anything about this city. Charlottesville welcomed me with open arms, and I saw an opportunity to make my mark. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far, but I’m even more proud of the people who have supported me and allowed me the chance to support them in return.
by Rayona Johnson | Double The Glam Boutique
Participating in the Soul of Cville has been an incredible experience for me, both personally and professionally. In the first year, I joined as a clothing vendor, and the sales were absolutely amazing! The vibrant atmosphere and the enthusiastic crowd made it a memorable event. However, what truly captivated me was the fashion show. The creativity and energy on display were so inspiring that I knew I wanted to be a part of it in the future.
After the event, I spoke with a few models and was eventually introduced to the talented organizer of the fashion show, Mrs. Khalilah Jones. Her passion and dedication to the event were evident, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with her.
In the second year of the Soul of Cville, I was able to showcase my brand, Double The Glam Boutique, within the fashion show. This was an incredible platform for me to promote my business and connect with a wider audience. The experience was not only rewarding but also a significant milestone in my journey as a fashion entrepreneur.
I am eagerly looking forward to participating in the Soul of Cville again. The event has become a highlight of my year, and I can’t wait to see what new opportunities and experiences it will bring. Thank you to everyone involved in making this event such a success, and I look forward to being a part of it for many years to come.