The vibrant hues and resonant rhythms of Yoruba culture filled the air of Yoruba Language School, New South Wales, on May 25, 2024. On that day, the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people was celebrated, drawing a diverse crowd, including Lyndall Franks and Hilary Hudges representatives from the Department of Education and Community Languages, New South Wales (NSW), who currently serve as Community Language School Programme Coordinator and Director Community Languages and International Programme respectively.
The event, which held at Hassall Grove, Sydney, was a feast for the senses, showcasing traditional artefacts and cuisines that transported attendees to the heart of Yorubaland.
The highlights were the revered cultural artefacts such as Moremi’s head and Ori Olokun, whose historical narration was echoed by one of the students, Juliana Olatunji, which eventually sparked conversations about their historical significance.
The rhythmic beats of Yoruba drums Bata, Dundun, Sakara, and Gangan, among others, added a lively appearance to the festivities. These traditional instruments, masterfully explained by Nabeel Abdul, underscored the hourglass-shaped wood carved, creating an immersive cultural experience for all present.
Other presentations include, “the historical Yoruba fabric making processes of Aso Oke and Adire by Daniel Olatunji, and Sekere, Irukere and Ileke, whose details of cultural aesthetics were presented by Nabeelah Abdul.”
Guests were also treated to a delectable array of Yoruba cuisines. Dishes like amala with gbegiri and ewedu, eba and egusi served with jollof rice, and an assortment of other traditional delights were enjoyed by attendees, many of whom marvelled at the rich flavours and intricate preparation techniques. These cuisines also marked part of the highlights presented to the large audience by the students.
Mueez Kadiri talked on amala, gbegiri and ewedu while Bukky Adeyemi took the audience through the process of preparing eba and egusi soup, which is one of the famous dishes among the Yoruba food. Also, due to the popularity of jollof rice in recent times and the irresolvable argument of which one is the better between Nigerian and Ghana jollof; Dara Oyekan explained the process through which this special delicacy is prepared.
Other presentations include Ayo Olopon, the Yoruba traditional board game by Yomi Adeyemi; Fila, Buba, Agbada ati Sokoto by Mayowa Oyekan; and Emu (palm wine) ati Akeregbe (Calabash) discussed in detail by Richard Olatunji.
The event was meticulously organised by the coordinators of the Yoruba Language School, Kadiri, Ms. Bolanle Adeyemi, and Tunmise Olupona. Their efforts ensured a seamless and engaging experience, highlighting the importance of cultural preservation and education within the community.
Kadiri said: “Our goal is to keep the Yoruba culture alive, especially for our younger generations here in Australia. By showcasing our heritage, we foster a sense of identity and pride among Yoruba descendants and educate the wider community about our rich traditions.”
In his speech, he thanked the representatives from the Department of Education and also expressed his gratitude to the department for supporting and promoting community language schools in NSW.
Adeyemi emphasised the role of cultural education in fostering understanding and respect. “Events like this are vital in promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity. It’s wonderful to see such a positive response from both the Yoruba community and our friends from other cultures.”
Olupona highlighted the educational aspect of the day, noting that the presence of representatives from the Department of Education NSW underscored the event’s significance. “Their attendance signifies recognition and support for cultural education. We hope this encourages more schools to incorporate cultural studies into their curricula.”
The representatives from the Department of Education NSW praised the event, noting its educational value and the importance of cultural diversity in enriching the educational landscape. The Yoruba Language School’s Cultural Exhibition Day is not only to celebrate heritage but also to build bridges within our multicultural society.
Vice President, Odua group, NSW, Dr. Folorunsho Oyekan, who gave the closing remarks and a short speech in place of the president expressed his delight in seeing the event as a reality and thanked all people present as he encouraged members to enrol their children/ward for the Yoruba language class for the generational sustainability of the Yoruba language.
As the day drew to a close, attendees left with a deeper appreciation for Yoruba culture and a sense of unity fostered through shared cultural experiences, especially through a great debate on Yoruba Proverbs. The Yoruba Cultural Day at the Yoruba Language School of New South Wales, Australia proved to be a resounding success, celebrating heritage while fostering community and education.
