An awakening is growing among Afrikans in the Diaspora. Afro-centric groups are convinced that Afrika needs to be redefined by Afrikans.

In Nevis, the Waset Foundation hosted the Foundation’s maiden annual Afrikan Liberation event at the Old Manor Hotel on Sunday evening, 27th May 2007, spearheading the awakening process.

The evening commenced with a procession of Afrikan drums calling the audience to be present. Mrs Ali Akua Guilbert as MC called on Kofi Adams, Waset Foundation’s Chairman, to open the proceedings with a libation to the ancestors asking their blessings on the venture. Mr. Adams told participants that Waset had begun a process to redefine Afrika and people of Afrikan descent in Nevis. The Foundation is raising funds to establish an African centred school.

The highlight of the evening was the fashion show compered by Mrs Maureen Adams. Models of all ages and genders displayed Afrikan attire. Queen Nzingha’s (Esther Brookes) latest designs under her line, ‘Her Best’, stole the show. Other collections and designs were modelled, including Rhonda Grant-Maycock’s and Rif-Raf Designs.

Also on the programme was drumming, dance performances, and displays of Afrikan art, and natural hair and beauty products. Masud Sadiki and the band Muse, featuring Jazzique, provided music that both thrilled and uplifted those present. Dr. Raymonde Rohan thrilled the audience with her with fabulous jazz ballads, and renowned musician Lloyd Williams gave an impromptu performance to add to what many described as a “very enjoyable evening.” Rhythmz Dance Theatre, choreographed by Dianne Hobson, further thrilled the audience with their dances accompanied by I-Afrikanna Drummers.

Culture icon, Halstead ‘Sooty’ Byron, spoke during the occasion and stated that Afrikans in the Diaspora, as well as those living in the motherland (Afrika) were not yet liberated: “We need to bring good news of Afrika and news of those scattered in the Diaspora to the attention of the public here in Nevis and elsewhere.” In his address, Byron also said that history about Afrikans in the Diaspora begins on a negative note; the enslavement of our ancestors, and that the history books are silent about the 400 years before slavery. “During that period, there were great universities and higher institutions of learning in Afrika.”

He called on Afrikans in the Diaspora to re-educate themselves and their children, so that our young people would have a sense of pride in who they are and who their ancestors were. Byron also called on the Foundation's members to have continuous education on Afrikan issues between now and the time the school is established, as the re-education process cannot be delayed.

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