The Africa in Reno event is a celebration organized by the African Students' Association (ASA) at the 鶹ӳ. It's a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come together, learn and celebrate the vibrant heritage of Africa. The goal is to promote understanding and appreciation of African culture in the University community.
This fall, this week-long series of events, was held from Sept. 16 to Sept. 21, 2024. Throughout the week, ASA facilitated five events to promote and showcase professional, cultural and social exchanges. The events took place in the Joe Crowley Student Union and other locations around campus. The events included: LinkedIn Headshots Day, Scavenger Hunt Day, Movie Night, Rep Your Country, and The Main Event. The events featured a variety of activities, including colorful traditional and cultural attire, African food, prizes and educational workshops. Africa in Reno brings together and celebrates the rich cultural heritage, diversity and vibrancy of Africa on campus.
“I strive to create fun, engaging and culturally immersive events for our members and the University community,” said Idia Uwaifo, event director and executive board member of the African Students’ Association. Uwaifo is a Nigerian-American who studies international business at the 鶹ӳ, pursuing a degree in international business and a minor in Chinese.
This was the second year the association successfully implemented the Africa in Reno events and ASA received a stark increase in attendees. The executive board members showcased their passion for creating a community for African students, individuals interested in African culture and students looking for a dedicated familial-like community on campus. Feedback from attendees was positive with many stating they feel the event created a sense of community. Participants also showed a strong interest in wanting the event to return next year.
“The African Students’ Association hopes to continue this annual event, so if you missed Africa in Reno this year, no worries! There will be more to come in the future so we’ll see you there!” Uwaifo said.
The African Students' Association
The African Students’ Association is an organization on the University campus that promotes African culture regardless of race, nationality or ethnicity. ASA welcomes anyone and everyone.
“We strive to foster cultural understanding, academic excellence and leadership among student members,” Uwaifo said. “Our mission as the African Students’ Association, is to promote our cultural heritage and encourage respect for the diversity in the University community. We provide enriching social and African cultural experiences for students. We also collaborate with groups outside the campus to help us expand our resources for our members. We highlight our motto ‘Ubuntu, I am because you are’ throughout all aspects of the association. The word Ubuntu signifies interconnectedness. It is a way of life that promotes community, empathy and mutual respect.”
The organization enjoys bringing the community together and fostering a space of relaxation and joy. Throughout the academic year, ASA holds several other events to keep members engaged. The association usually starts the year with a welcome event to introduce new members to the association and to kick off the academic year. Following this, they usually hold social events such as game nights, karaoke nights and cultural-related events like Jollof Wars and more. Follow the organization on Instagram and on PackLife to stay updated on its upcoming events.
Anyone can join ASA via PackLife, by reaching out to the organization through email asanevada.unr@gmail.com, , or by contacting any ASA executive board member to communicate interest.
