Q&A with Dr Afia
Dr Afia is an award winning digital media producer and content strategist. Dr Afia holds a Ph.D in Africology from Temple University. She is the founder and CEO of Harris Diversity Consulting.
- Tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Christina Harris, also known as Dr. Afia, a Black studies scholar, content creator, and food & travel enthusiast. My platform, @dr.afia_abroad, is all about highlighting Black-owned food, cultural events, and small businesses. I travel voraciously (I’ve been to over 40 countries) and encourage others to see the world through sharing travel tips and curating group trips. Whether I’m posting hidden gems in Philly or exploring the African Diaspora through food and travel, my goal is to connect people to amazing experiences and uplift our communities. - How do you see events like African Restaurant Week fostering connections in the community?
African Restaurant Week creates spaces for people to come together, celebrate culture, and support small businesses. It’s an opportunity to not only enjoy amazing food, but also to build network and build relationships. Events like this are absolutely vital to building and maintaining a sense of community. - Why do you support events like this?
Connecting people to incredible cultural experiences and community events is at the heart of what I love to do. Events like African Restaurant Week bring visibility to small businesses and allow us to celebrate the richness of the African Diaspora together. Also, events like these allow myself and others to tap into the experience of Black Joy which is more important now than ever. - What challenges do small businesses face today, and how can community members help?
One of the biggest challenges small businesses face is exposure—getting their name out there and attracting new customers is especially difficult for Black owned businesses, who often don’t have equitable access to funding and resources. Community members can help by showing up to support, spreading the word, leaving Google reviews, and sharing their experiences on social media. Every bit of support makes a difference! - How do you see the role of food in bringing people together and fostering community?
Food is such an important part of Black identity, culture, and community. It’s how we connect, tell stories, and pass down traditions. Whether it’s a family meal or a big community gathering, food has the power to bring people together in a way that nothing else can. The opportunity. - What’s your favorite African dish, and why does it hold a special place for you?
I love food from across the African Diaspora, so it’s hard to choose just one! From Ghana, I love banku & tilapia; from Nigeria, egusi and catfish soup; and of course, jollof rice—even though the entire diaspora swears their country does it best, my favorite is Liberian jollof (and yes, I’m well aware that it originated in Senegal, lol). - What is your favorite Caribbean dish?
The Caribbean has so many delicious dishes! From Haiti, I love soup joumou and Haitian spaghetti; from Jamaica, oxtail and jerk chicken; and from Trinidad, bake & shark and doubles are my go-to favorites. But honestly, every country has something amazing to offer! - What is your favorite Soul food?
Macaroni & cheese is the love of my life. For my next birthday, I don’t even want cake—just stick some candles in an entire pan of mac and cheese, and I’ll be happy! - What is your favorite city in the United States and why?
There are way too many amazing culinary cities to choose from! New Orleans, NYC and Chicago are definitely at the top of my list. But I think Philly is so underrated—it has an incredible and growing food scene that isn’t always reflected in mainstream media. A big part of my platform is showing people just how amazing the food culture in Philly really is! - How can we inspire others to support small businesses and cultural initiatives?
The best way to inspire others is by actively participating and sharing your experiences. Show up, bring friends, leave Google reviews, and share social media posts. Word of mouth is powerful—when people see the excitement and value in these businesses, they’ll want to be a part of it too!
