Networking · Business · Community

Where professionals build, belong, and give back.

APNET connects professionals of the African diaspora and their allies across Greater Cincinnati – advancing careers, celebrating culture, and strengthening the communities we all call home.

NEXT EVENT

2026 APNET Gala & Fundraiser

Saturday Nov 7, 2026 ⋅ 5pm – 9:30pm · Cincinnati, OH
Celebrating Excellence. Empowering Futures. Building Capacity for Lasting Impact.

Years Serving

1,200+

Professionals Connected

70+

Businesses Showcased

Signature Programs

Signature Events

Our Mission

A platform for professional growth and collective advancement

APNET is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2010 that serves professionals of the African diaspora and allies through leadership development, cultural engagement, and community impact.

“While we center the African diaspora experience, our membership, programs, and leadership are open to everyone who shares our commitment to connection and community advancement.”

How We Do It

Three pillars, one community

Every APNET program advances at least one of these commitments.

Networking

Mixers, symposiums, and mentorship that turn introductions into lasting professional relationships.

Business

Entrepreneurship training, a member business directory, and trade connections that spark innovation.

Community

Youth programming, cultural festivals, and outreach that invest in the region's future.

Our Work

Programs & signature events

From summer youth programming to the region’s largest African cultural festival.

AfriFest

A free, family-friendly celebration of African music, food, fashion, and enterprise with 70+ vendors.

APNET Summer Program

Career exposure, mentorship, and leadership training for diaspora youth in Greater Cincinnati.

Symposium & Gala

Our flagship evening of keynote conversation, recognition, and fundraising for the year ahead.

Business Mixers

Recurring evening gatherings where members, partners, and newcomers make real connections.

Entrepreneurship Program

Practical coaching and capital-readiness support for founders building in the diaspora.

African Business Connect

Bridging local enterprises with trade and investment opportunities across the continent.

Get Involved

Find your place at APNET

Whichever door you come through, there’s a next step waiting.

I'm a professional

Join a network of peers, mentors, and opportunities across the region.

I'm a business or sponsor

Reach an engaged, growing audience while investing in community impact.

I want to give back

Volunteer at an event or donate to fund youth and workforce programming.

Since 2010

Our story

What began as conversations among NKU alumni became a regional institution.

2010

Founded

African alumni of Northern Kentucky University create a structured platform for professional advancement and community connection. Founders: Prince Ellis, Ruth Nduta Ellis, Frederick Odame, and Peter Nyame.

2010–2015

Grassroots growth

Founding members including Angella Maingi, Clara Matonhodze, and Jane Muindi build the organization’s culture through volunteerism, events, and outreach.

2016

Incorporated as a nonprofit

APNET obtains 501(c)(3) status, marking the shift from grassroots network to institutional platform built for long-term accountability and impact.

Today

A regional platform

Signature events, youth and workforce initiatives, and strategic partnerships advance economic mobility and cross-cultural collaboration across Greater Cincinnati.

In Their Words

“APNET gave me a room full of people who understood exactly where I'd come from and exactly where I was trying to go. That’s rare, and it changed my career.”

Member Name

Title · Organization · APNET member since 20XX

Trusted by our partners & sponsors

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Your support builds the next generation of leaders

Every gift funds youth programming, entrepreneurship training, and cultural events that strengthen our region.

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