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Simms Lumami

Produced by Simms Lumami

April 30, 2024
Leaders Convene at GW to Discuss Economic Strategies for Africa

George Washington University recently assembled global leaders to discuss innovative economic strategies aimed at accelerating Africa’s development. The event highlighted critical themes such as sustainable development, technological innovation and international partnerships. VOA’s Kahli Abdu and Simms Lumami bring us the highlights from this gathering.
April 12, 2024
African Entrepreneurs in Baltimore

In the heart of Baltimore, African entrepreneurs navigate a vibrant yet challenging landscape, from cultural adaptation to economic resilience. Amid recent challenges like a bridge collapse, these business owners’ stories of coping and thriving shine a light on the spirit of innovation and community. VOA’s Simms Lumami and Kahli Abdu bring us closer to their experiences.
April 05, 2024
Tourists and Locals Gather in Washington DC for Cherry Blossoms

Tourists and environmental experts say Washington is experiencing the impact of climate change as the city this year has witnessed fewer blooms of cherry blossoms than usual. Nonetheless, the U.S. capital remains vibrant with visitors. For Red Carpet, VOA reporters Kahli Abdu and Simms Lumami filed this report which details more.
April 02, 2024
Celebrating Cherry Blossoms, Spring in Washington, D.C.

Springtime in Washington D.C. usually promises a spectacular display of cherry blossoms. However, this year’s scene has taken an unexpected twist with fewer blooms than anticipated - a reminder of the growing impact of climate change. Despite this, the capital remains vibrant with visitors and locals alike, all drawn by the season’s spirit and D.C.’s rich offerings. Here' VOA’s Kahli Abdu and Simms Lumami report.
March 20, 2024
Chefs Compete for Best Cuisine at Annual World Competition

African chefs were part of a group of 23 culinary professionals from different parts of the world who last week competed in the D.C. Embassy Chef Challenge, an annual competition that takes guests on a journey across the globe through food. VOA’s Red Carpet attended the event where they tasted the food, spoke to attendees, the chefs, and organizers.
March 15, 2024
"Frame of Hope" Showcases Black Washington, DC Media Producer

"Frame of Hope" is a documentary that chronicles the inspirational journey of Robert E. Jackson, founder of B-Roll Media & Arts, who overcame a challenging upbringing in Washington D.C. government-supported housing for low-income families. Raised by a single mother, he faced adversity but discovered resilience through music and creative expression. Despite being labeled "dumb" in school, Robert found his way to the Navy, where he explored photography and overcame drug addiction. Returning from the U.S. NAVY, he pursued education at American University in Washington, D.C., majoring in Communications. Robert's career soared with roles at ABC 7, BET, NBC, CNN, and NPR, breaking barriers for black professionals. The producer of the documentary, Simms Lumami of VOA's French-to-Africa Service, joined VOA’s Esther Githui-Ewart in studio to talk about the significance of the documentary.
March 04, 2024
The Frame of Hope

Robert Ervin Jackson, founder of B-Roll Media & Arts, overcame a challenging upbringing in Washington D.C. projects. Raised by a single mother, he faced adversity but discovered resilience through music and creative expression. Despite being labeled "dumb" in school, Robert found his way to the Navy, where he explored photography and overcame drug addiction. His journey reflects the transformative power of mentorship and determination.
December 02, 2023
Nigerian Producer, Artist Pheelz Talks Music Career, Next Moves

Nigerian music producer and artist Pheelz, whose real name is Phillip Kayode Moses, has gained recognition for his exceptional production skills showcased with some of Nigeria's biggest artists. He has produced hit songs for notable acts such as Olamide, Adekunle Gold, Fireboy DML, and many others. VOA’s Simms Lumami recently sat down with Pheelz for more on his music career and what he hopes people will take away from listening to his music.
November 22, 2023
Montgomery County Kicks Off the Holiday Season with Thanksgiving Parade

The annual Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade kicked off the holiday season with its traditional event held on November 18, in Downtown Silver Spring in the U.S. state of Maryland. Simms Lumami attended the parade and has this report from the festivities, narrated by Roger Muntu.
November 21, 2023
'AfroTech' Brings Together Diverse Innovators, Entrepreneurs, and Industry Professionals

The largest annual Black technology conference in the U.S. known as AfroTech, was recently held in early November in the U.S city of Austin, Texas, for the second consecutive year. The event brought together diverse innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech professionals to network, learn, and celebrate the achievements of the Black community in technology. VOA’s Simms Lumami attended the conference and has this report, narrated by Michele Joseph.
October 05, 2023
World Culture Festival Wraps In Washington DC

The World Culture Festival has concluded in Washington, DC after three days of festivities that celebrated and promoted cultural diversity and exchange. The event featured artists from around the world showcasing their culture through music, dance, and art. VOA’s Jackson Mvunganyi and Simms Lumami attended the event and filed this report.
July 16, 2023
Sneaker Enthusiasts Gather in Washington at ‘Sneaker Con’

Sneaker enthusiasts gathered at the largest sneaker premier known as “Sneaker Con” in Washington, where about 200,000 items were displayed and over 350 vendors showcased their products. Simms Lumami and Ginny Niwa attended the event held between July 8-9 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and have this report.

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