Students Prepare for the Annual Taste of Africa Banquet
Every year the African Students Organization has hosted its annual Taste of Africa Banquet, which provides lots of African food, dance and music. Students are to expect a variety of African dishes prepared by African people within the Northwest Arkansas Community.
“This is our biggest event of the fall semester. We are hoping through our silent auction to raise money to support a charity organization based in Africa. We have no doubt it will be a success this year, we have a great team of executive officers and great active members” said Denis Rugira, president of African Student Organization.
The African Student Organization is an International cultural student organization in the UA. It represents 54 nations of Africa, according to the website.
“As a member of the African Student Organization, I love the fact that we have this event because it gives us an opportunity to share our culture with others. The main thing is the food, hence the taste in the name, so many people from various countries make so many different types of food. I think its amazing that we have all these students working hard to provide the guests with some of the best meals from their respective countries of origin,” said Adeolo Yusuf, junior in industrial engineering.
ASO strives to create awareness within the University community, as well as the Northwest Arkansas region about the rich and diverse cultures of Africa and its people.
The student organization is committed to the integration of African students at the UA, as well as showcasing the rich cultural diversity of Africa. The membership for the RSO is available and open to anyone interested in the country, according to the website.
“The event provides such a wonderful experience and delicious food. It’s amazing how much one can say about someone’s culture with only their food”, said Juan Torres Goitia, civil engineering major.
There will be cultural dances, music, a poetry competition and a silent auction. African artifacts and clothing will be auctioned off at the event, Rugira said.
“All in all, I hope those that attend really enjoy the show and leave having had some of the best meals of their lives. Equally as important, I hope they leave feeling like they’ve acquired more knowledge about various African cultures. I strongly encourage everyone to attend the Taste of Africa,” Yusuf said.
The program is open for anyone who wishes to learn more about African culture. The event will take place Sunday November 20th at 6 p.m. at the Fayetteville Town Centre.
