On Saturday, August 23, 2025, Winnipeg witnessed something extraordinary. Inside the Creative Foundation, Africanad Academy hosted a night where art, medicine, and inspiration collided — all embodied in one man: Dr. Fola David.
Dr. David isn’t just a doctor. He isn’t just an artist. He’s a living proof that passion and purpose can coexist — and that they can change lives. Known globally for his Guinness World Record achievement (Unity in Diversity, the largest drawing ever created by an individual at a jaw-dropping 1,050 square meters), Dr. David has used his gift to connect with people, heal communities, and inspire hope.
A Night to Remember
The event opened with light refreshments and warm welcomes, before the energy in the room shifted to anticipation. When Dr. Fola David took the stage, he didn’t just talk — he connected. His keynote was filled with personal stories, challenges overcome, and lessons about creativity as a tool for healing and empowerment.
And then came the surprise. In a matter of minutes, the audience watched him transform a blank canvas into a stunning 24” x 18” painting. Gasps filled the room. Applause broke out. In that moment, everyone understood why he is celebrated not only as a medical doctor but as a world-class artist whose hands can heal both with a scalpel and with a brush.
Celebrating an Icon
The night was also about recognition. Dr. David was honored with two prestigious awards:
The Exemplary Impact Award from Canadian Black Artists United.
The Creative Foundation Life Mentor Award, presented to outstanding individuals under 40 who use their gifts to inspire change.
These awards reflected what everyone in the room already knew: Dr. Fola David is more than an achiever — he’s a role model.
Why This Matters
Events like this are more than just gatherings. They’re seeds planted for the future. Parents brought children, students brought questions, and elders brought wisdom — all converging to learn, share, and grow together. For many young people in the room, this wasn’t just a talk. It was proof that their dreams, no matter how unconventional, are valid and possible.
Dr. David’s message was simple yet powerful: your life is bigger than you. Through his art and medicine, he reminded everyone that what matters most is the impact we leave behind.
Looking Ahead
As the evening closed with networking and warm conversations, one thing was clear: this wasn’t just another event. It was a moment of transformation — a night when Winnipeg became the stage for a global icon of creativity and hope.
And for those who were there, it’s a story they will carry for years to come.
✨ Africanad Academy: Create. Learn. Activate.
