Celebrating African culture

Croydon u3a's Focus on Africa group explores Africa and its rich culture through visiting museums, eating food and inviting guest speakers to talk to the group. Group leader Grace talks about why she first created the group and how it has developed.

It all started when I went to a Summer Fair in my area in 2022. While exploring the different stands, I found the Croydon u3a booth. There, I saw a list of various groups and their activities, along with when they meet. I was excited to see many interesting options, especially groups focused on different countries, like language learning. However, as I looked around, I noticed there wasn’t anything about Africa. This absence sparked my interest, and I felt a strong desire to create a group that represents Africa and its rich cultures.

One of the ladies at the u3a stand noticed my interest and asked if I would like to join as a member. This nice lady introduced herself as Maggie. I replied yes, but I mentioned that there wasn’t a group for Africa. She encouraged me by saying that if I became a member, I could start a group and she would gladly help me if I wanted her support. This made me really excited, and I quickly filled out the registration form to join.

After the fair, Maggie reached out to me, and we began discussing the group and what name I wanted for it. The rest is history!

Unfortunately, when the group first began, I faced some health challenges that made it difficult for me to participate fully. However, I am grateful for the incredible dedication of Maggie and several members who had been with us from the start—they kept the group thriving during that time. Their support meant the world to me, and I truly appreciate how flexible and understanding they were about my situation. Thank God, I am now on the road to full recovery, and I am looking forward to seeing even more people join this vibrant and amazing group!

Even though our group is still relatively new, our members are wonderfully flexible and engaged. We work together to plan our programme, encouraging everyone to suggest activities they would like to see on the agenda. Each member takes turns sharing their knowledge through talks, leading fun activities, or even inviting guest speakers to join us, either in person or via video conferencing.

The atmosphere is always warm and welcoming, with everyone showing respect and making sure each person feels included. So far, we’ve enjoyed a variety of activities, including discussions about different cultures, playing games, participating in quizzes, visiting museums, and tasting delicious African cuisines. It’s been a fantastic journey of learning and sharing together. The group plan to expand our activities to include education, books, history, geography and stories - the list is endless.

Group leader Grace

Leading this group has been a wonderful journey that has revealed many of my hidden talents. It has truly boosted my confidence, knowing that I’m helping others to shine and share their unique ideas, knowledge, and life experiences. One of the greatest benefits of a u3a group like ours is the opportunity it creates for like-minded individuals to come together and connect.

This group not only helps build a strong social network but also promotes an opportunity where we can appreciate diversity and learn the importance of valuing one another. It encourages open communication, reduces feelings of isolation, and has a positive impact on our moods. We even have a WhatsApp group where we stay in touch, cheer each other on, and check in on one another’s health and well-being. It also creates an environment for expressing happiness and a sense of belonging. Overall, this and other kinds of u3a groups can be a truly enriching experience for everyone involved!

Starting the group has been a wonderful, encouraging and exciting experience. I’m really grateful to have met all the amazing people who joined the group. I’m happy to say our numbers keep growing, and it’s been fantastic! I would like to thank and applaud all the group members.