The African Student Association (ASA) is holding its annual African Night this Saturday at the CPMI Event Center in Ames. The evening will begin at 5 p.m. with an art display, followed by an African-focused meal at 6 p.m., and the show will begin at 7 p.m.
The evening features a full culture showcase, keynote speaker, culture dances from different countries, authentic African food, an awards show honoring graduate members and more.
“I think of it as a celebration of many people’s heritage, cultures, traditions… coming together and having one big ball,” said Nyamat Thor, the fundraising chair of ASA.
This year’s theme is based on the TV show “Young, Famous & African” and will be a gala-style event. Attendees are encouraged to wear any African garments or whatever is most comfortable, as there is no strict dress code.
Abdullah Haran, the president of ASA, described the night as the “main event of the year” for the club.
“If you want to learn about culture, come to African night… if you want to see a vibrant community, come to African night,” Haran said.
ASA is a club focused on African culture but opened to all students at Iowa State University. They meet weekly on Fridays at 6 p.m. in the Student Innovation Center and partake in activities such as rice wars, trivia, Caribbean Night and a variety of other things.
“It’s our safe space as students that are African,” Thor said. “[But] we’re not just limited to African students.”
If you’re planning on attending African Night, please fill out the RSVP form online. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10 for adults and $5 for kids.
