The goal was to bring together two of the head organisations for Ndigbo in the UK, to create a bridge between the generations regarding the transference of cultural heritage in communicating the history of the Biafra war. Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR the governing umbrella institution for all igbos & ICSN which was created for the youths.
This intimate cultural remembrance evening, dedicated to all of those who died during the war. This was a great time for the youths & the elders to network and commune together, hear stories and learn more about igbo culture in a comfortable setting. Coordinated in less than 2 weeks, sold out in under 24 hours, attendance over capacity, prominent elders, eager youths Vibes Pro Max!!
THE DREAM TEAM, we did it, anyị metchi Streatham !!! Ohanaeze thank you for keeping the youth at the heart of your projects and may all the souls we lost during the war rest in perfect peace. Indeed we mourned and celebrated their memories that night!
Our Cheif Host & PRESIDENT Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR opened the night with thanks to all those in attendance.
With a warm welcome address and introduction from Chief Eloka Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR Social Secretary & Chinazo x2 President ICSN 2024 & Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR Youth Leader.
We began the night with an opening prayer by President Emeritus Chief Onyenma Ajiduah.
Next on the agenda was the breaking of the kola by Nze Na Ozo the eldest titled men in the room.
Nze na Ozo – Our Heads. They gave us ther breath, their time, wisdom and leadership.
Maazi Idoka, Vice President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR ( Abia ) read extracts from real life stories of Biafran children, one of which he is.
A minute silence to honour our heroes.
Who better to host the night than Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR PROVOST King David Okolo
We continued on with an interactive quiz to read the room temperature and find out how much we all know about the Biafra War.
Guest speakers in attendance took turns to share their experiences during the war and advice us all on the traditions we should hold on to and what we should remember about the war.
Mrs Pat Chukwudinma delivered a poised and poignant speech on her childhood experience during the war. REMINDING us that WAR should NEVER be repeated, requested for or initiated – EVER!!!
We move forward by healing and honouring our past as heroes
Ezenwanyi Nnemmanwu – Global Queen of Ndidaland, came in her glory to share her stories on her Biafra experience. She also enlightened us on her role in the prestigious society of Otu Odu ONITSHA ADO N’IDU WOMEN CHIEFS.
The lovely Lady Agatha Secretary Anambra State Union came all the way down that night to tell us her story about her experiences during the war.
Councillor Edith David of Barnet came to tell UMU AKA to VOTE.
Use your power as Landlords to make change wherever you are!!
Lady Susan re-tells her story being conscripted as a woman during the war.
Our very own Chief Ajiduah took the mic again to teach us about the link between Africa and Windrush from his own personal experience.
If we use opportunities to come together and meet with different age groups in igbo culture we can transfer cultural practices and encourage those who are able to continue the work. Connect with people doing the work. Educate them and patronise their talents! Learn the history, teach the custom encourage trade.
Sisterhood is everything, ICSN patron and Double Mayor of Enfeild Kate Anolue, the lady who knows how to shake and boogy down! Such a powerful example of women uniting to lead the youths in diaspora.
It was lovely to end the night with a suprise celebration for Chief Lady Aqueen Ibeto Adabuzo Ndigbo Preseident Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR on her birthday.
The youths came down from leeds! Leading the youths is definetly be by example.
It happens once so often, the genuine intermingling of the generations… moments for social, cultural and critical thinking opportunities.
It takes those who are willing to grow and learn and use opportunities for the good majority. Utility; utilising spaces, network and creative capacity to Unite and heal.
This was a great moment, an honour to do it for the first time and with the first female President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK & IR.
Onye isi ADABUZO Ndigbo.
Special thanks to Ifeanyi for covering the photography on the night.
Special thank you to Mr Uche Okoye, Founder of Macan Lounge who hosted an catered this special event.
Full VIDEO below!
