Afrobana is a representation and celebration of the African and Caribbean culture. Culture revolves around the symbols we create and share. Thus, we can say ‘Afrobana’ is a symbolic way of communication between us and our audience. These symbols are represented through music, dance, spoken word, fashion, paintings, facial expressions etc.
Afrobana is one of the most anticipated fall semester events at Trent University, organized and hosted by the Trent African and Caribbean Student Union. The idea behind Afrobana is to give students of both the African and Caribbean background an opportunity to express themselves and display what it truly means to be African or Caribbean.
Over the years, Afrobana has had some particularly significant themes — Hakuna Matata (2014), Heritage Vortex (2015), The Diaspora (2016). We will dwell on last year’s theme, The Diaspora, which refers to anyone with African and/or Caribbean ancestry who is living outside of the African and Caribbean geographical boundaries (in this case Canada). The showcase featured a Diaspora utilizing three generations. The first generation embodied those who have come to Canada from Africa or the Caribbean Islands. The second generation represented those who were born in Canada and whose parents have come from Africa or the Caribbean Islands. This generation, though assimilated into Canadian culture still feels connected to their parents’ homeland. Finally, the third generation was characterized by those who have completely assimilated into Canadian culture; though knowing some things about their ancestral history, they are proud of their Canadian heritage.
This year’s Afrobana focused on our ancestral roots, where we came from. It was themed “The Culture: A Journey to Our Roots.” The show, held on November 11 at Market Hall, attracted much of Peterborough, the GTA and other locations in Canada.
The theme was a reminder of several beautiful things that Africans and Caribbeans are known for. It was a trip down memory lane, engrossing the audience on a flight across the African countries and Caribbean Islands, depicting who we are and what we are about!
Participating in Afrobana holds a phenomenal meaning to the performers. To be a part of something big, emphasizes the pride in representing one’s nation at a scintillating event such as Afrobana. Year after year students both international and local look forward to this event so that can get a taste of our electrifying culture.
The Trent African and Caribbean Student Union wants you to know that our doors are wide open to everyone regardless of your cultural background. We welcome you to join us, with your great intentions and willingness to learn the culture. We believe it is extremely important to stay true to our roots, to keep our cultures alive, and to take them with us wherever we go.
