Hands on Africa

In May, I had the privilege of being part of a special event called "Hands on Africa".  A number of churches got together to plan for it.  What was it about?  It was an opportunity for people to come celebrate and learn more about Africa - mostly Nigeria - since that is where I live.  The event included:

Children who came were issued passports.

 For each activity they completed they would get a “stamp” (sticker) in their passports.  If they completed everything they could get a prize from the treasure box.

Some of the activities included:

Ten Thousand Villages display – sold their fair trade items and 10% of proceeds would go to my support.

 Dress up and photo booth – kids and adults could dress up in Nigerian outfits and get their pictures taken in front of a back drop.

Musical instruments – play and explore

Games – Learned how to play mankala

Praying Hands – people could write prayers for teachers and students(or colour) on praying hands that I will take with me to West Africa.

Daily life relay:

People tried backing babies, carrying water, writing class notes, pounding yam.

Food – different volunteers made various recipes from “Extending the Table” and “More with Less” and CRWM cookbooks that came from various African countries.  Rice, pounded yam, curry, stew, ginger drinks, chin chin, sesame cookies were enjoyed!  Recipes were printed so people could read about where the food came from and how it is prepared. 

Other activities included...barefoot "football" - soccer, book and puzzle corners,hair braiding,crafts - beads and cars, music, sharing time.

It was a fantastic time!  I really enjoyed myself and seeing people of all ages and churches comes through and interact and have fun.  There was A LOT of work put into the event by the organizing committee, but the event was a success.  I really appreciated the gesture. 

The next day, when I attended a local church service, a young girl ran up to me and gave me a big hug and said “Hi Sheila!!”  and started chatting with her friend about the exciting event she had attended the day before.