The third in the series of ‘Adventurers in the Diaspora’ forum , moderated by its co-founder Joe Osae-Addo, was a engaging affair of film, discourse and music .It is fast becoming an event for creative minds in Ghana, to hold conversations on the role of creativity in Ghana’s development agenda, and highlights ‘ shining lights ’ working locally and abroad. The salon, which began modestly only a few months ago, has become a well attended cultural phenomenon.
The session was on the role of activism in contemporary African societies, and begun with the screening of the documentary 'CITIZEN ARCHITECT’, which explores the work of the late Architect Sam Mockbee of Rural Studio, USA. . His work focused on how design and architecture must be used to change the lives of the under-privileged through involving his students to build well designed affordable housing and community buildings for rural communities, without the aid of government.
The screening was followed by a lively and poignant dialogue on similar endeavours in Ghana, in diverse fields from finance, photography and waste recycling, to mention a few. It was an extraordinary blend of serious minded discussion and a musical tribute to highlife music legend, Ebo Taylor who returned that evening from Germany, where he performed for the German Chancellor and promoted his new album, ‘Love and Death’. He was introduced by Mr. Kofi Blankson Ocansey, who doubles as event advisor and official photographer.
Ebo Taylor's album has already hit Number Two in the World Chart in Canada. In his honour, highlife songstress Paulina Oduro sang a few songs from her own repertoire as well as that of the highlife legend. Paulina was accompanied on guitar by Tony Akablay. In a short speech, Ebo Taylor called for the reintroduction of Music Education in the Junior High School curriculum, adding that it was the only way to promote quality music among young musicians.
Patrons of the ‘Adventurers in the Diaspora’ forum also enjoyed musical performances from the likes of US-based Ghanaian rapper M.anifest, Ben Jerry Telfer and Ebo Taylor Jr, .Dr, Amos Anyimadu graciously arranged for all the musicians to be part of this event. The magical evening was crowned with the surprise visit of the international reggae star and human rights activist Jimmy Cliff, who had a special dinner in his honour at the Golden Tulip Hotel. That moment captured what the series is all about - a blend of creativity, passion and most importantly celebrating the unsung heroes and heroines within the African Diaspora.
This bi-monthly event, hosted by co-founder Xavier Hubert , Xperience Manager of The Golden Tulip hotel, Accra, is held at its Branche Lounge with sponsorship from Krew Men’s Grooming. The event coordinator is Janet Gyimah-Amoako , Golden Tulip Accra.
