The Western Bulldogs, together with the AFL, have celebrated Africa Day at Victoria University Whitten Oval today.

Africa Day (celebrated on May 25) is the annual commemoration of the 1963 founding of the African Union (AU). Africa Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of the peoples of Africa.

Western Bulldogs running defender Jason Johannisen, Richmond’s Mabior Chol, North Melbourne’s Majak Daw, Hawthorn’s Changkouth Jiath, Carlton VFLW player Akec Chuot and Footscray’s Reuben William, who are proud representatives of the African Australian Community came together to mark the special occasion.

South African-born Johannisen, never dreamed he'd be an AFL player when he arrived in Australia as a seven-year-old. He said the day provided an important opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of Africans within the Australian community and around the world.

“We’re celebrating our culture and where we came from, just to show how proud we are of where we’re from,” Johannisen told westernbulldogs.com.au.

“It’s great to see how many clubs have such diverse players. It’s really good for the AFL. Majak was the first African player to be selected by an AFL team.

“It’s really inspiring for young kids who want to play the game.”

Children from Footscray Primary School along with drummers and dancers from the Asanti Dance Theatre also joined in celebrations.