UBUNTU 2.0 at the London School of Economics: Celebrating Rich Voices, Culture and the Black Experience with V. Osarumwese, McInerney, Agape, Omeke, Su’eddie Agema, E. Mwambulukutu and Orayyy

On October 12, 2023, the London School of Economics (LSE)’s GenDen halls resonated with the beats, tales, and voices of Africa, as the institution celebrated the second edition of the Ubuntu Café (Ubuntu 2.0) with the theme, ‘Roots, Bridges, and Echoes: Reclaiming our Stories.’ Hosted by the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa (FLIA), the Ubuntu Café was established in 2022 as an avenue for fostering connections amongst African students and the diaspora at LSE and those passionate about African culture. The major intent was to create an ambience that captures an informal public space where creativity, intellectual stimulation, and lively discussions find common ground. Building on this foundation, guests were ready for a stimulating experience and were not disappointed as the FLIA team, comprising Tosin Adebisi, Ivonne Olusoga, and Daniella Gutiérrez-Torres, ensured that the attendees had a memorable experience.

The event kicked off at 5:30 pm and was anchored by Orayyy, the dynamic creative who spiced the event with the right words at the best time with a sprinkling of humour, games and special dance moves. He ensured that every moment was infused with rich culture and camaraderie.

Will McInerney set the tone for the evening with an evocative performance of his poem, ‘Trained by Fear’ to the appreciative applause of the audience. Quickly switching from performer to host, McInerney introduced and engaged in a soulful discussion of the book, Conversations from Last Night with its author, Victory Osarumwense. Guided by the host, Victory took the audience through an emotive ride that detailed the journey of her book which she said had been in gestation since 2019. Her heartfelt rendition as a writer emphasised the deeply personal nature of her pulling prose and poetry. She explained that her book is written simply and from the heart, drawn from experience such that people will easily relate to it. She gave an emotional account of her writing journey. Among other excerpts, she read and performed ‘London Tears’, ‘These Words’ and ‘Sorry, not Sorry’, while sharing the stories behind them. Her words painted her experiences, frustrations, and the inspirations that birthed her poems.

Chris Agape, a noted PfAL alum and public health practitioner took the stage next. Attendees might have expected health insights from the afro-haired scholar but were pleasantly surprised at his unexpected crooning of the hit song, ‘Never Enough’ from the movie, The Greatest Showman. He was full of smiles as he left the stage despite the calls for an encore.

Next, the poet, Joshua Omeke came forward and read two poems, ‘Flies of Wilderness’ and ‘A Coloured Dream’ from his collection, Joe’s Collectanea. Decked in splendid African attire, Joshua Omeke emphasised the importance of embracing one’s roots. His performance, brimming with pride and elegance, was a testament to the beauty of African heritage.

Following, the multiple award-winning author and premier Black History curator, S. Su’eddie Vershima Agema performed the poem, ‘A Boy Calls out for the Tribe in the Spirit of Marley’ (the performative version of ‘If You Were Nailed by a Bullet in Golgotha’ set to excerpts ‘from Bob Marley and Maya Angelou). His poem brought forth a poignant call to action with his performance, addressing systemic injustices against black individuals. His words resonated, urging for an active commitment to ensure justice for all and everyone to be their siblings’ keepers.

Su’eddie Vershima Agema performing his poem

Elizabeth Mwambulukutu then took attendees on a trip down memory lane, sharing enchanting tales from African folklore. She not only enthralled listeners with her stories but also fostered an interactive session, inviting insights on folklore, which were eagerly shared by enthusiastic audience members.

The evening took a fashionable turn with a quick ‘Best Dressed Prize’ showcase that featured four of the best dressers at the event, as selected by MC Orayyy. This was followed by a closing address by Daniella Gutiérrez-Torres. However, her speech was interrupted by a heartfelt surprise – a showering of appreciation on her by the recently graduated members of PfAL from the 2022/23 batch. One by one, they shared stories of Daniella’s impact, expressing how deeply she would be missed, especially with her impending departure from LSE. By the end, emotions ran high, with Daniella visibly moved, sharing warm hugs with those around.

As emotions settled, the atmosphere shifted to one of celebration. The music’s tempo increased, calling everyone to indulge in a delightful spread of jollof rice, chicken, snacks, and refreshing drinks. Laughter, dance, and lively chatter filled the air as several phones clicked to new friends and acquaintances.

In general, Ubuntu 2.0 proved to be a composition of beautiful rhythms, stories, shared experiences and a general celebration of being Black and African with an emphasis on the beauty of cultural heritages. In continuing the events for Black History Month, the organisers have also made open a call for submissions for a literary competition discussing the black diasporan experience with several prizes to be won. Details can be found by clicking here.

In all, it was an event well spent and a chance that shows that there is also an awesome art edge to the London School of Economics.

S. Su’eddie Vershima Agema is a multiple award winning author, editor, development consultant and culture enthusiast. He is the Managing Editor of Konya Shamsrumi was a finalist for the $100,000 Nigeria Prize for Literature, winner Association of Nigerian Authors’ Poetry Prize (2014 and 2022) and premier Black History Month Curator at the University of Sussex. He is @sueddieagema across various social media channels and can be reached via sueddie.ksr@gmail.com. You can purchase his multiple award-winning poetry collection, Memory and the Call of Waters by clicking HERE.