THE organizer of the Pan-African Drum Competition, Prince Segun Akanni, has introduced that the second version of the competition, happening on June 27 and 28 in Mississauga and Toronto, Canada, might be larger than the primary occasion.
The maiden version of the competition, themed 'Rejigging Yoruba Cultural Heritage as Catalyst for Nationwide Unity, Progress and Improvement', was held in Mississauga, Canada, on July 28, 2023, and witnessed a colourful show of Nigerian artwork and tradition. Nigerian Canadians, Africans, Canadians, Europeans and others took half within the celebration, with the turnout exceeding the organiser's expectations.
Reflecting on final 12 months's occasion and what we will anticipate this 12 months, Akanni, who can be the writer of Drum On-line newspaper, expressed his satisfaction with the way it went.
Akanni defined: “My objective was to begin the competition in a small means; I by no means anticipated it to be a giant carnival. Our projection was for about 100 folks to attend, however the turnout on the day was overwhelming. This has by no means occurred within the historical past of blacks in Canada: a set of 25 drummers enjoying on stage. A number of units of percussionists from Nigeria, Europe, America and Canada took the stage.
“There was a German who performed the speaking drum and spoke the Yoruba language fluently. He’s a Bata drummer and has a terrific ardour for Nigerian tradition. Individuals had been very comfortable to see a white man enjoying the Bata drum and talking the Yoruba language. Our tradition is exclusive however some Nigerians have uncared for and deserted the tradition. We had been in a position to painting African tradition in a constructive mild.”
Talking about plans for the second version, Akanni, who self-funded the primary however is now open to collaborations with people and establishments, stated: “I’ve buddies from America, Europe, Ghana, Togo, Republic of Benin, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Burundi and Tanzania who’ve referred to as to say they wish to be a part of the second version to make it larger, higher and extra colourful.
“A number of the actions for the second version embody a courtesy go to and interactive periods with Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. Others embody the cultural and tourism sectors such because the Canadian Council For The Arts and a few Canadian media organizations.
There might be lectures, artwork exhibitions, drumming competitions, magnificence pageants/trend reveals, award ceremonies, cultural performances and different colourful facet sights.”
He revealed that as a part of strategic efforts to ease the visa software course of for company, cultural icons and competition fanatics around the globe, the Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has awarded the competition a novel occasion code.
Akanni added: “There might be thrilling and new packages to commemorate Canada's Day of Multiculturalism on June 27, which might be held yearly in main cosmopolitan cities throughout Canada. “
This 12 months's competition will even embody the inauguration of Africa Media Nite Out to honor and rejoice African journalists who’ve made notable contributions to the expansion and improvement of journalism in Africa.
Akanni stated: “We hope to combine this as one of many key parts of the annual occasion in Canada. With this publicity, African journalists will expertise the serene and harmonious oasis that characterizes Canada's multi-ethnic and numerous tradition.”
Along with the drum competition, Akanni additionally plans to ascertain an artwork gallery in Toronto the place artwork lovers can see distinctive work, artworks and Canadian and African artifacts.
“Many cultural-historical works might be on show within the gallery. I do know it would take some huge cash, however we will end it in time. I’m passionate and decided about it. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
