Beyond The 9-To-5: How Afrobeats & Trap Forever Offers A Joyful Reset For Professionals Seeking Culture And Community

Forbes

24-03-2025

For many professionals, especially during times like these with uncertainty, social and political unrest, and increasing polarization, the traditional workweek is marred by overwhelm and exhaustion—many want to feel seen, heard and understood. Afrobeats & Trap Forever was created to fill this void by providing attendees with a sense of culture and connection. Founded by Ghanaian American entrepreneur Percy Addo-Yobo, Afrobeats & Trap Forever is more than just a day party—it's a sanctuary for those seeking refuge from the stresses of the current reality. The event has gained traction particularly among Black professionals who are looking for places to cultivate community and joy.
Started in 2016, Afrobeats & Trap Forever came out of the realization that there were very few events featuring afrobeats—the now massive music genre rooted in West African rhythms with blends of American jazz, soul and funk. 'Around 2016, I noticed that there were barely any events that played afrobeats,' shared Addo-Yobo. 'They would play everything but that. When I would travel back home to Ghana during the holidays, I always loved going to parties and hearing those sweet melodic sounds of afrobeats and high life. It was around the time that Wizkid and Drake dropped 'One Dance.' I felt [it]
What sets the Afrobeats & Trap Forever events apart is that unlike most nightlife events, it is intentionally set during the day. 'The day party is a great experience because you can go to sleep at regular hours and not have to mess up your sleep schedule,' shared Maryam Basir. For Basir, who is an actress and model, the draw was immediate. 'The name alone says it all—Afrobeats & Trap Forever. My two favorite genres together at one event,' she said. 'It's great for networking, but without being in a stuffy environment. Everyone can let loose and get to know each other, vibe, dance, and hang out.'
Others echoed how accessible and restorative the events feel. 'I appreciate the punctuality of these events, giving me time to enjoy music, socialize, and still follow my skincare routine later,' said Samm Oduro, a Ghanaian American creative professional. 'They foster diasporic connections. You meet people doing incredible things—creators, entrepreneurs, thought leaders—and it all feels organic.'
Ghanaian American entrepreneur Percy Addo-Yobo
Jamel Martin
A wealth of research indicates that employees from underrepresented backgrounds face several challenges in the workplace. Black employees in particular experience weathering due to heightened levels of societal stressors as well as lower levels of belonging in the workplace. Afrobeats & Trap Forever provides a space to recharge and reconnect. Intentionally centering joy and community in a world that feels more disconnected than ever feels like a radical act. 'It is honestly one of my favorite events to go to and support,' shared Chris Jean. 'Great crowd, great vibes, and never any drama. I have always had a great time and always be sure to spread the word to others to experience for themselves. It never disappoints.'
Addo-Yobo sees this impact clearly. 'Overall, I've been told that it's a great place to meet like-minded progressive professionals, network, and let loose a bit,' he said. 'The fact that we're approaching our eight-year anniversary and growing audience speaks for itself.' In addition, he shared 'Music, dance, and community allows people to thrive in their creative spaces. They give people a voice—and for some, it's therapeutic.'
When asked whether workplaces could learn from the environment he has cultivated at Afrobeats & Trap Forever, Addo-Yobo shared, 'Workplaces promote safe places for workers, but employees often feel like they can't fully express themselves because of fear of being ostracized.' At Afrobeats & Trap Forever, attendees are free to be themselves without the added pressure.
Since its early days, Afrobeats & Trap Forever has been a community-minded experience featuring good music, great food and unmatched vibes. 'Throughout the years, we've taken this event from regular day parties, brunch parties, and game nights at local restaurants to beautiful rooftops and event spaces with influencers, various DJs, actors, and artists to block parties benefiting the community and nonprofit organizations,' said Addo-Yobo. 'The next likely destination would be concerts, festivals, and merch.' Past attendees like Basir are hoping to see it grow into other cities. 'When I have friends coming to town, I always recommend these events,' she said. Others see even more potential for cultural influence. 'I'd love to see more integration of African vendors,' said Jean. 'Creating opportunities to showcase other parts of the culture.'
As conversations about DEI become increasingly more complex and contentious, Afrobeats & Trap Forever is a reminder that inclusion isn't just an initiative—it's a lived reality cultivated through joy, connection and cultural celebration. 'I would love for attendees to take away from these events that they have a community of like-minded individuals with different journeys and whenever [and] wherever we have events, they have somewhere they can feel at home. Now is a time where we need each other,' said Addo-Yobo. Professionals aren't just seeking to survive the workweek—they are looking for spaces where they can thrive. Afrobeats & Trap Forever may provide that refuge—offering a soft place to land and a community where one can simply be.