African Caribbean Society: Panafrik Directors

Hi everyone, I'm Ife a 1st year student studying ISPS.

I am standing for this position as I would love to take a lead role in coordinating the great event that is Panafrik. 

Having worked with theatre companies and creatives for many years, I have developed a real passion for artistic expression. I've collaborated in the devising and performance of several musical pieces and shows, including a radio drama for the BBC and a play commissioned by the National Theatre. So I feel I will be able to take on this responsibility, offer support, organise efficiently and input a lot into the process having worked on projects of a similar nature. 

I really want to make Panafrik as inclusive as possible, and aim to lead by facilitating conversation and open communication. I’m excited to explore ways of incorporating more facets of Afro-Caribbean culture into the show (e.g. through the use of language(s) in the spoken word and song), and can't wait to showcase all the great talent in our ACS! 

I think it’s important to listen to and use the artistic input of everyone who wants to be involved in whatever capacity, whether that’s actually performing on stage or helping behind the scenes. I want the process to be as collaborative and fun as possible, and attending the initial meeting for Panafrik earlier this year helped give me some ideas for themes and scenes. 

I know how important this event is to everyone, and really hope to make Panafrik 2023 the best there has been!

I believe the diversity of the African and Caribbean diaspora should be thoroughly celebrated in ACS events, and Panafrik is an aid towards this- an event to celebrate our similarities whilst also recognising and appreciating our differences. As one of the Panafrik Directors I believe I can help to create a show that not only delves into traditional Caribbean and African aspects, but also showcases more modern cultures from newer generations. As Panafrik is one of the biggest ACS events in the year, I understand the importance of staying organised throughout the planning of the event and believe I have all the skills necessary for effective communication. Panafrik is also an opportunity to collaborate and gain inspiration from other societies such as fashion society for costume advise, or dance society for choreography help. I firmly believe this can help strengthen the ACS’ position as a recognisable society whilst also initiating future inter-society events.

Someone who takes a degree that is very STEM related, I have never lost me ability to be creative. Aside from my degree fashion is some thing I take seriously and I’m very interested in it. More specifically I love the styling aspect of specifically POC brands and one integration into the fashion scene. My concept shoot even made first page for the university fashion Soc which is a huge accomplish coming from a first year.

 

The main reason I’d love to be directors because I would like to show people immense  creativity Black people studying any degree. I would also love the fashion show aspect because you allow me to explore my creativity further.