LITTLE DID I KNOW!!…

An unexpected connection emerged recently when I revisited photos of my African art and creativity exhibition held at Arts Central MK shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. This vibrant showcase featured, among other pieces, my collection of Ayò game sets, a popular Yoruba game requiring precision hand-eye coordination, strategic thinking, and calculation skills.

What struck me was the realisation that these very skills mirrored those employed by Nigerian chess champion Tunde Onakoya when he broke the marathon record by playing chess for 60 hours straight in Times Square. Little did I know then that the impact of this exhibition would extend far beyond the walls of the gallery.

This experience highlighted a powerful lesson that, every step in our journey and every person we encounter are for a purpose. By being aware of these connections, we can discover unexpected ways to shape our work and make a positive impact. Pay attention!

The influence of this exhibition continues to resonate in my work with the African Wonder Women Organisation CIC (AWWOrg CIC). It has helped us cultivate an approach to SPEAKING THE UNSPEAKABLE THROUGH CREATIVITY workshops, our mental and emotional wellness support that caters to the bereaved, traumatised and oppressed communities in Milton Keynes and beyond.

Building on this momentum, AWWOrgCIC and BLACK CREATIVES MK are thrilled to present a bigger and better iteration of the African art and creativity exhibition at the Every Emotion is Valid Convention 2024. The event will be held at the Milton Keynes Museum at the convention on October 4th and 5th.

This interactive and exciting convention promises to be an exceptional experience. Join us for engaging conversations around mental health and well-being, centred around the theme of “STIGMA.”

Get involved!

  • Join the Conversation at the Every Emotion is Valid Convention 2024
  • ⁠Learn more and secure your EEIV convention tickets: bit.ly/EEIVCON-24

Before that, join Princess Folaji and others at Downs Barn Pavillion on August 2nd and 3rd during the Olympic Games and Family Fun Day organised by THE MELTING POT. This event promises a fun-filled exploration of the Ayò game, where you can witness chess and Ayò skills firsthand.

We look forward to seeing you there

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