The first edition of Ivorian Night
The Ivory Coast Student Association (ICSA) made history last weekend by hosting the first-ever Ivorian Signature Night on campus. The event, held in the Centennial Student Union Ballroom, brought together students, faculty, and community members to celebrate the vibrant culture of Côte d’Ivoire through music, dance, food, and fashion.
The evening was filled with performances, beginning with a traditional Ivorian drum and dance performance that captivated the audience. Dressed in colorful, traditional attire, performers moved to the rhythmic beats of the drums, embodying the spirit of Ivorian festivals. A highlight of the night was the fashion show, where students modeled both traditional and modern Ivorian clothing, drawing applause and cheers from the crowd.
The ICSA President Tariq Bakayoko said the event was dedicated to everyone interested as the Ivory Coast cherishes diversity of culture.
“This is dedicated to everyone – alumni, Africans, because everyone knows that the Ivory Coast is where we have the most diverse people,” said Bakayoko. “We have people coming from Nigeria, coming from Guinea, coming from Senegal and almost everywhere from Africa. And basically, this is not only a night for Ivorians, but for everyone.”
Emcee George Dinga opened the event by welcoming the attendees and reminding about the diversity of the African continent, which was represented at the Ivorian Night.
“This is a very important and momentous event because what it symbolizes is the importance of African culture,” said Dinga. “And I know right now we are highlighting Ivorian culture as our main focus of the event, but it has a landmark into other nations in Africa.”
The culinary aspect of Ivorian culture was also a key feature of the event. Attendees were treated to a variety of Ivorian dishes. For many attendees, it was their first time experiencing authentic Ivorian cuisine.
Assistant Professor Orlando Jayasiri Gunesekere said he is always on the lookout for signature nights organized by Kearney International Center, International Student Association and related RSOs, because he enjoys learning and interacting with people from different cultures. He said this is what motivates him to “experience a new culture, the food from that culture and just the ambiance of the evening. This is a good end of the week event as well.”
According to the ICSA members, the preparation for the event took more than 10 weeks. They have worked on the program, dances and offered foods, while trying to showcase the Ivorian culture in its full magnificence. Tiffany Beda, the ICSA treasurer said they had over 100 people attending the event, which was a success for the signature night.
Caption: The band played music throughout the Ivorian Night event, while attendees danced, ate and enjoyed fashion show and other performances on the first ever signature night organized by Ivory Coast Student Association (MATT MILLER • The Reporter).
Write to Amal.sharafkhodjaeva@mnsu.edu