Touch of Love Young Achievers graced the 2024 New Yam Festival in stunning cultural attire, performing the Atilogwu dance—a traditional Igbo dance renowned for its vigorous body movements and energetic acrobatics. This performance was the culmination of two weeks of intense summer dance practice, during which our young achievers demonstrated immense enthusiasm and commitment to mastering the complex dance steps and legwork. Teaching our young participants an African dance is part of Touch of Love’s initiative to promote cultural appreciation and enhance the acceptance of their dual identity.

The Journey to Mastery

The Atilogwu dance, traditionally performed by agile youths in Africa, is celebrated for its physically demanding movements, including jumps, flips, and acrobatic stunts. Despite only two weeks of training, our young achievers performed exceptionally well, showcasing not only their agility but also their dedication to preserving and sharing their cultural heritage. Their daily practice sessions focused on building the physical stamina and coordination required for such a demanding dance. The extraordinary performance left spectators astonished, with many expressing delight at the skill and energy displayed by these vibrant young talents.

Health Benefits of Cultural Dance

Engaging in cultural dances like Atilogwu offers numerous health benefits. Physically, it enhances cardiovascular fitness, improves coordination, flexibility, and overall physical endurance. The fast-paced movements of Atilogwu are excellent for building muscular strength and maintaining joint health, making it a great form of low-impact exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Beyond the physical benefits, participating in dance has been shown to have significant positive effects on mental health. It can reduce stress, enhance emotional well-being, and boost self-esteem. The sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering complex dance routines improves self-confidence, while the social aspect of dance fosters community, empathy, and stronger social bonds.

Cultural Significance and Social Impact

Cultural performances like Atilogwu play a vital role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. For the young participants, learning the dance was not just about mastering steps—it was about connecting with their roots and sharing a piece of their culture with a broader audience. This sense of cultural pride and identity is crucial for minority ethnic communities, helping to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding and respect among diverse groups.

Jane Akadiri, the Chief Executive of Touch of Love, expressed, "I am profoundly moved by the overwhelming success of this event. It was a powerful demonstration of the strength, resilience, and rich cultural heritage within the Black Minority Ethnic (BME) community of mums here in Aberdeen. Through sharing personal experiences, career journeys, and the challenges of integration, we not only fostered a space for emotional wellbeing and community bonding but also laid the groundwork for meaningful cultural dialogue and understanding. Seeing children and mothers come together to share, learn, and celebrate their identities reinforces the importance of our work at Touch of Love and the critical role of community in nurturing a sense of belonging and mutual respect."

Looking Ahead

The success of the Touch of Love Young Achievers at the New Yam Festival underscores the power of cultural expression and community engagement. We look forward to continuing our efforts to provide opportunities for young people to explore and celebrate their cultural heritage. Special thanks to the Youth Arts Open Fund by YouthLink Scotland and Creative Scotland for making this unforgettable experience possible.