The Rhythm of Unity

Fred Alale AM, Finance leader and Director in Victoria’s Department of Education and a community leader held in high regard, tells of his journey from Nigeria to Australia, highlighting his dedication to diversity and community through the African Music and Cultural Festival. His vision for unity and inclusion fits perfectly with Segmento ’s mission to promote social cohesion.

Fred Alale’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and a deep commitment to fostering a harmonious, multicultural society. Originally from Nigeria, Fred’s path has taken him from Nigeria to the UK and, eventually, to Australia. Now, at 48, he is not only a successful professional but also a passionate advocate for unity, particularly through his contributions to the African Australian communities. His work, notably through the African Music and Cultural Festival, highlights his tireless efforts to bridge cultures and celebrate diversity.

Fred’s connection with Australia began in 2010 when he and his wife visited Sydney and Cairns for their honeymoon. They were struck by the country’s relaxed lifestyle and inclusive atmosphere, which led them to explore migration opportunities. As a chartered accountant, Fred’s expertise was in demand, easing their migration process. Reflecting on their decision, Fred shares: “When we visited Australia, we felt a sense of inclusivity and freedom. It was a place where we could build a future for ourselves and contribute to society”.

Growing up in Nigeria, Fred was deeply influenced by his mother, Stella, who instilled in him the values of hard work and resilience. Despite losing her husband early, Stella worked tirelessly to ensure her children had every opportunity to succeed. “She was my guiding force, instilling in me values of education, perseverance, and giving back to community”, Fred states.

Fred’s educational journey took him to the UK, where he earned a first-class honours degree in Accounting and Finance. His dedication led him to prestigious roles with companies like Guoman Hotel Group and Ernst & Young, gaining a global perspective on financial systems and business strategies. These experiences laid the foundation for his work in Australia, where he has applied the principles encapsulated by the acronym VENTO: Vision, Excellence, Networking, Tenacity, and Opportunities.

Now a proud father of three daughters—aged 17, 13, and 3—Fred’s commitment to creating a better, more diverse world for them drives his work. “As a father, I want to create a society where my daughters can grow up surrounded by cultures that appreciate and celebrate diversity. I want my ceiling to be their floor,” he says.

Fred’s involvement with Melbourne’s African communities began through cultural events aimed at promoting unity and African heritage. His role as treasurer and subsequently President of the Nigerian Society of Victoria was pivotal in launching one of his most impactful initiatives: the African Music and Cultural Festival. What began as a modest, one-day event in 2014, drawing fewer than 5,000 people, has since expanded to a three-day festival attracting over 50,000 attendees. Today, the festival stands as a symbol of cultural pride and unity for African Australians.

The African Music and Cultural Festival, which takes place annually at Federation Square in Melbourne, has grown exponentially. Fred hopes it will eventually become the largest cultural event in Australia, drawing over a million people annually. This year, the festival will take place from Friday, 21st November to Sunday, 23rd November 2025. The event serves as a powerful platform for cultural exchange, where people from diverse backgrounds celebrate their unique traditions while appreciating others.

The festival is more than just an event: it embodies Fred’s vision for unity and inclusivity. Bringing together more than 40 African communities, the festival showcases their rich culture through music, dance, food, and performances. This spirit of cultural exchange is at the heart of Fred’s work, helping to create a space where people from all walks of life can connect, share, and learn from one another.

Fred takes immense pride in how African culture is introduced to the broader Australian community, while also learning from other cultures. For instance, Fred has come to appreciate the Italo-Australian community’s strong focus on family and tradition, recognising common values between African and Italian cultures, such as the significance of family, community, music, and food. He envisions further cross-cultural collaborations within the festival, such as blending African drumming with Italian folk rhythms. According to him, “Music is a universal language. When we share our music, food, and stories, we’re building a richer, more diverse society”.

The festival’s inclusivity doesn’t stop at African culture; it has expanded to feature Jamaican, Colombian, Brazilian, and other cultural cuisines, further celebrating Australia’s multicultural society. Fred believes music and food are powerful tools for breaking down cultural barriers and fostering understanding between communities.

Fred's contributions have not gone unnoticed. In the 2023 Australia Day Honours, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant impact on the community. Additionally, his exceptional work during the COVID-19 pandemic earned him a place on the COVID-19 Honour Roll for his outstanding dedication during such a challenging period.

At the core of Fred’s work lies a powerful belief: the more we celebrate our differences, the stronger our communities become. He envisions a future where every community, no matter how new or small, can contribute to Australia’s vibrant cultural mosaic. By building bridges through cultural exchange, Fred continues to create spaces where people from all backgrounds can come together, share their experiences, and deepen their understanding of one another.