Panelists at a 2-day African Cultures and Arts International Festival holding at Gender Road Christian Church, Canal Winchester, Ohio encouraged new Americans and immigrants in the United States to intentionally be engaged in activities that will accelerate their integration into the communities they are.

They agreed that many opportunities abound for new Americans, immigrants and residents in Ohio that can lead to realizing the American dream.

“One of the quickest ways to get integrated into the American society is by joining the military,” said Wilfrid Muiche, a Captain in the US Army and an IT professional.

Wilfrid Muiche, who came to the United States from Cameroon in 2011 described how he was recruited into the military as an IT professional and rose to the rank of a Captain.

“The United States military is the best in the world and caters greatly for everyone. There are lot of opportunities to develop and grow oneself in the military.”

Publisher of the New Americans magazine Deba Uwadiae said, “where you live presently is your home. Make the best of opportunities in the community.”

Also, President of Guineans in America Mamadou Saliou Diallo said, “I contested for the position of a President so as to ensure that Americans of Guinean descent participate in community development. America has opportunities for all to play a role. We want to encourage our children to go to school, participate in civic duties and even contest for elective offices.”

Staff of Thrive Mortgage and UIF Financing spoke on Home Financing services and processes of buying homes in America.

President of the African Cultures and Arts International Festival Ibrahim Diallo said the festival aims to bring awareness to the great potentials in African cultures and promote international relations between the African cultures and other cultures in the central Ohio communities.

The two-day festival will end on Saturday, August 10.

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