A Showcase of the Yoruba Heritage Project
On Friday, November 3, 2023, CultureTree collaborated with the Mayor of Southwark, Cllr. Michael Situ, to host an evening reception to celebrate and showcase our Yoruba Heritage Walking Trails and Murals project. This exclusive event was an opportunity to update stakeholders and galvanise the community around the project.
We were honoured to have in attendance HRM Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, representing the Ooni of Ife, and the revered traditional ruler of the Yoruba kingdom of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ọjájá II) CFR
Her presence added a touch of royalty to the event and emphasised the significance of this project in connecting the Yoruba diaspora with our rich cultural heritage.
The high-profile gathering showcased a range of captivating performances and presentations, including a Yoruba poem recital by Keyemo and Kayin Isimi, a mesmerising talking drum performance by Hafsa Kazeem, and an enlightening Yoruba Heritage project presentation by Gbemisola Isimi.
It was also a privilege to have the Senior Programme Officer of the Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm at GLA, Anne Hartley, who delivered an inspiring speech. She shed light on the essential role of the Untold Stories Fund in supporting community-led projects and the Mayor of London’s dedication to diversity in the public realm and the promotion of an inclusive cultural sector.
The event, hosted by Dr. Dayo Olomu, was graced by partners and collaborators who have contributed significantly to the project.
Paul Crook shared insights into South London’s “Lagos, Peckham, Repeat” exhibition, highlighting the project’s connection to the local community.
Dr Joanna Burch-Brown from the University of Bristol provided valuable insights into our collaboration with the university’s Bridging Histories initiative, emphasising the academic support this project has received.
Osei Bonsu, Curator of International Art at Tate Modern, spoke about Tate Modern’s ‘A World in Common’ and our collaboration with them on the ‘Portraits of a Community’ exhibitions, highlighting the global significance of the Yoruba heritage.
The event also featured remarks by Nigerian community leaders, reinforcing the sense of unity and common purpose that underpins this project.
The evening reached its pinnacle with the book presentation of “Unspoken: A Chronicle of Yoruba Female Kings (Oba Obinrin)” by HRM Queen Ronke Ademuluyi-Ogunwusi to the Mayor of Southwark, Cllr Michael Situ.
The Yoruba Heritage Walking Trails and Murals project is set to launch next year in Southwark. Stay updated for more information about this exciting project.
Click HERE to view more pictures from this event.
