Simon Javan Okelo
- 5100 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle, WA, USA
- Nectar Lounge, North 36th Street, Seattle, WA, USA
- Hidden Hall, North 35th Street, Seattle, WA, USA
- Pono Ranch, NW 46th St, Seattle, WA, USA
- The Triple Door, Union Street, Seattle, WA, USA
- Seattle Art Museum, 1st Avenue, Seattle, WA, USA
- Olympic Sculpture Park, Western Avenue, Seattle, WA, USA
- Pier 62, Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA, USA
- The Royal Room, Rainier Avenue South, Seattle, WA, USA
I am Simon Javan Okelo, a Kenyan-American media and events strategist, cultural producer, musician, and storyteller. I use music, media, food, storytelling, and community gatherings to connect people, celebrate African and diasporic culture, amplify underrepresented voices, and create meaningful social impact.
I am the Founder & CEO of Madaraka Festival and One Vibe Media, host of the Madaraka Festival Podcast, and owner of Kezira Café in Seattle. Through live events, cultural programming, podcast storytelling, and community experiences, I bring people together while creating opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs, cultural workers, and communities.
As an MBA candidate in Sport & Entertainment Management at Seattle University and a Grammy Voting Member, I am committed to building experiences that connect Africa and the world through culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and community.
Beyond the Music — Where Africa Meets the World.