The East African Students’ Association (EASA) hosted its first event, an East African-themed Family Feud game night on Feb. 6.
The event featured trivia inspired by Family Feud and Jeopardy, with questions focused on East African food, music, sports and geography. The participants were separated into teams, men versus women.
Rania Ibrahim, EASA president, described the event.
“I think this is a great, low-stakes event to get to know people, and also [have] some friendly competition,” Ibrahim explained. “It’s a great way to build community.”
“I think [the highlight was] getting people to know more about East African culture and the things that are important in East African culture,” she said. Zahra Lokwa, EASA media executive, said she manages the club’s online presence. According to Lokwa, the questions reflected everyday cultural experiences. “Questions varied from foods that East Africans would bring at an event to sports that are dominated by East Africans.”
Lokwa pointed out that the mission was to bring East Africa to the map for those who do not know about it.
Aref Al Aswad, Syrian Student Club media manager, attended as a representative.
“We aim to celebrate the East African culture and reinforce the importance of belonging and cultural pride within the student community,” Al Aswad explained. “Even though our cultures are different, there is a shared experience of communities.”
Ahmed Babiker, a student attendee, explained that the event was a good way for students to feel more connected to their background.
“It’s a good opportunity for people of East African descent, and even otherwise, to get along, get together,” Babiker stated.
Efrah Ibrahim, EASA vice-president, shared her perspective on the intentions of the event.
“For our first event, we wanted something that was both collaborative and interactive so that people could get to know each other and also learn more about East Africa in a fun way,” she stated.
The event was not planned as part of Black History Month, but EASA is hoping to create events to related to it.
