For 24 years London has been host to TD Sunfest- a proud display of diverse sounds from international talent.
The festival is rooted in its humble beginnings when it first began in 1995. Founder Alfredo Caxaj came to London as a refugee in the 1980s from his homeland Guatemala.
“Music is what brings people together. We truly believe that.” Ian Davies, Creative and Programming Coordinator of TD Sunfest.
Caxaj, his daughter and Vending Coordinator Mercedes Caxaj, and Creative and Programming Coordinator Ian Davies travel across the world to scope out bands and performers.
In the past 12 months, Davies has traveled to England, Scotland and Poland among other countries and looks forward to traveling to South Korea at the end of August.
Davies says the idea of TD Sunfest is about bringing together the community through diversity and, at the same time, inclusivity.
“What we’re trying to create here is true representation of world cultures. We really want to celebrate diversity in what we present, and in that way we feel that we are representing the truest sense of community here in London.”
The festival includes groups from Mozambique, Nigeria, Spain, Haiti, Cuba and many more countries. Their unique sounds from their native countries look to offer a place where all who attend TD Sunfest can join together and have a little fun.
Davies recognizes how cultural impact alone plays an important role in today’s divisive society.
“It’s very important, considering the state of the world we’re in right now, to keep putting out these positive expressions where people can really feel connected.”
TD Sunfest kicks off its 24th year Thursday at Victoria Park at 6 o’clock, and runs every night until Sunday.
For the complete line-up and mini-biographies of each artist, you can visit TD Sunfest’s website for more information.
