By Dameena Cox
(Webster Groves, MO – Nov. 24 , 2010) – The sound of beating drums filled the Sunnen Lounge at Webster University. There were dancers. Fashion models. Musicians. Poets.
This was African Night–a celebration of West African dance and culture, hosted by Webster University’s African Student Association.
The group’s president, Conrad Mbaziira, emceed the event. He also participated in the fashion show and poetry reading. He recited a poem titled “My Africa”.
[pullquote]“[This event] is where people come together to learn more about Africa, enjoy African culture, African music, and just have fun and be entertained,” says Mbaziira.[/pullquote]
Webster students, Araba Budu Anguah, Nina Cole, and Kemi Olasewere, danced and read poetry. Cole read a poem titled, “How To Bless An Infant.” Budu read a poem titled, “I Am An African” by Wayne Visser.
Things got lively during the drum and dance performance by Afriky Lolo. Afriky Lolo is a locally-based West African non-profit dance troupe. They teach the community about West African dance and culture through performances like this one. Afriky Lolo means African Star.
Students participated in a trivia contest, answering questions about Africa’s governments, geography and culture. The winners were crowned King and Queen of the Night. Webster alumni, Alonso Surrette, and student Maria Molteni took home the crowns.
African food was on the menu, of course. Attendees enjoyed the international tastes of jollof rice, plantains, jerk chicken, and suya. Suya is a type of skewered beef–kinda’ spicy.
The African Student Association is a group where members discuss issues and share their culture with others. African Night is an annual event at Webster University.
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