The Yoruba Social and Cultural Association of British Columbia is hosting its 30th anniversary and annual convention in Surrey from Aug. 8 to 11.
The organizers project that the convention will be "the largest gathering of representatives of African Yoruba Cultural Communities in North America." The Yoruba people originate from southwestern Nigeria.
"This significant event provides a platform to address crucial issues and facilitate discussions on cultural, economic, and socio-political matters affecting our diaspora communities," reads a Yoruba release.
Yoruba president Adebola Ige said in an address posted on Yoruba's website that social inclusion will be the theme for this year's convention.
"Founded in 1998, Egbé Omo Yorùbá ti BC promotes, preserves, and educates the public in British Columbia about Yoruba tradition and culture," Ige said. "We are dedicated to fostering good social and cultural relationships and providing a conducive environment where Yoruba people, Yoruba Canadians, and other organizations can freely discuss matters of mutual interest."
The non-profit runs various programs, including youth mentorship, black business expos, vocational skills training, and cultural and language awareness programs.
In October 2023, Yoruba hosted its second annual Metro Vancouver Black Business Expo in Surrey.
The four-day convention includes a business expo, cultural and youth pageant nights, and a banquet night. Tickets for the banquet and youth pageant night are $50 each.
To learn more about Yoruba and the convention, visit yorubabc.ca.
