CELEBRATING RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE – Saluting our Sisters
In line with this year’s theme for Black History month, we’ll have a roll of honour to recognise the contributions of African women in LLR focusing on healthcare, specifically mental health- women who have supported other women to grow. Women who have helped improve the mental health of members of the community by raising awareness or through wellbeing activities.
WELLBEING THROUGH THE LENS OF AN AFRICAN – Retelling our Stories
We’ll have a panel of discussants who will speak about what wellbeing/mental health means to them as people from African descent and the challenges/myths unique to us. they can also address health inequalities. Session will be anchored and participants can ask questions.
CULTURAL EXHIBITION
We’ll have a section where our African cultural exhibition will be officially declared open and the curators can speak about different works and what part of Africa they represent etc. This will be followed by light refreshments and general mingling till end of event
Dance, Dance, Dance
Introduction:
When the idea was conceived during our meeting at John Lewis in June, little did we know that it would blossom into Loughborough’s inaugural African Wellbeing event. On the 8th of October 2023, under the theme ‘Celebrating Our Sisters’ in alignment with the 2023 Black History Month, Karibani hosted a remarkable event that brought together over 80 participants, including children, with a singular focus on exploring the African narrative surrounding Wellbeing and Mental Health.
Event Highlights:
The event commenced just before 4 pm, with guests welcomed by a delightful spread of “small chops,” a term familiar to Nigerians, featuring puff-puff, fried meat, chin-chin, akara (bean cakes), and refreshing cold zobo. The following two hours unfolded into a tapestry of engaging activities.
Reminiscing Home:
Osas, our vibrant host, initiated the event by prompting attendees to share something that reminded them of home. Some came prepared with cherished items, and touching stories were shared by Denise Coles and Festus Adeyemi.
Celebrating Our Sistahs (BHM):
In line with Black History Month, five outstanding women in the Wellbeing space were honored: Dr. Olubukola, Olivette Wallace, Osas Adetutu, Adeola Obadina, Bola Owagbayegun, and Jennifer Williams.
Artistic Expressions:
Osas enriched the atmosphere by reciting a poem from her book, adding a poetic touch to the event. Ade, with rhythmic beats from his drum, brought a melodic dimension to the gathering.
Culinary Delights:
The culinary experience extended beyond the initial spread, ensuring attendees relished great food before and after the event.
Children’s Engagement:
Young attendees were immersed in the cultural richness through learning songs in various African languages and listening to stories from their cultural heritage.
Feedback:
Most Valuable/Enjoyable Aspects:
Engaging Conversations
Poem Reading
Insights into Wellbeing and Remarkable Initiatives
Inspirational Talks from Awardees
Personal “WHY” Stories Shared by Recognized Individuals
Suggestions for Improvement:
More Frequent Events
An Ample Supply of Puff-Puff (with a playful emoji)
Extended Duration for Future Events
Production of Leaflets with Stories and Online Resources for Social Media Sharing
Attendee Comments:
“An excellently put-together and powerful event.”
“Meeting Africans always feels like home, and everything about Africa makes me feel at home.”
Conclusion:
Wellbeing Through African Lenses was more than an event; it was a celebration of culture, resilience, and the outstanding contributions of women in the Wellbeing space. As we look forward to more events, the positive feedback and constructive suggestions will undoubtedly shape and enhance future gatherings, fostering a sense of community and unity.