The Africa in Reno event is a celebration hosted by the African Student Association (ASA) at the University of Nevada, Reno. It’s a great opportunity for everyone to come together to learn and celebrate Africa’s vibrant heritage. The goal is to promote understanding and appreciation of African culture in the university community.
Students who participated in the main event.
This fall, this week-long series of events took place from September 16 to September 21, 2024. Throughout the week, ASA hosted five events that promoted and showcased professional, cultural, and social exchanges. Events were held at the Joe Crowley Student Union and other locations around campus. Events include LinkedIn Headshots Day, Scavenger Hunt Day, Movie Night, Rep Your Country, and The Main Event. The event featured a variety of activities including colorful traditional and cultural costumes, African food, prizes, and educational workshops. Africa in Reno brings together and celebrates Africa’s rich cultural heritage, diversity and vibrancy on campus.
“We strive to create fun, engaging and culturally immersive events for our members and the university community,” said Idia Uwaifo, events director and executive officer of the African Students Association. Uwaifo is a Nigerian-American who studied international business at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he earned a degree in international business and a minor in Chinese.
This year marks the second year that the association has successfully run the Africa in Reno event, and ASA’s participation has increased significantly. Board members showcased their passion for creating a community for African students, individuals interested in African culture, and students looking for a devoted, family-like community on campus. Feedback from attendees was positive, with many stating that they felt the event created a sense of community. Participants expressed strong interest in holding the event next year.
“The African Student Association would like to continue this annual event. So if you missed Africa in Reno this year, don’t worry, there will be more in the future.” , said Uwaifo.
african student association
The African Student Association is an organization on university campuses that promotes African culture regardless of race, nationality, or ethnicity. ASA welcomes everyone and anyone.
student and ASA executive committee member Christabel Arthur;
“We strive to foster cultural understanding, academic excellence and leadership among our student members,” Uwaifo said. “Our mission as the African Students Association is to promote our cultural heritage and encourage respect for diversity in the university community. We provide students with a rich social and African cultural experience We also work with off-campus groups to expand resources for our members. We emphasize our motto, “Ubuntu, because you are here,” throughout every aspect of our association. The word Ubuntu means interconnected. It is a way of life that promotes community, empathy, and mutual respect. ”
The organization enjoys bringing communities together and fostering spaces of relaxation and joy. Throughout the academic year, ASA holds several other events to keep members engaged. Associations typically begin the year with a welcome event that introduces new members to the association and begins the academic year. This is usually followed by social events such as game nights, karaoke nights, and culturally related events such as Jollof Wars. Follow the organization on Instagram and PackLife to stay up to date on upcoming events.
Anyone can join ASA through PackLife by contacting the organization via email asanevada.unr@gmail.com, through ASA's Instagram, or by contacting an ASA Board member to express interest. Masu.
