Students from a number of African and Caribbean countries want to share their culture with the Northern Kentucky University community. The African Student Union is presenting its Cultural Fest on Saturday, Dec. 1 in the University Center Ballroom from 6-9 p.m.

“This is the first time we’ve tried this,” said Burhan Mohamedali, external relations officer. “The purpose is to increase multicultural awareness at NKU.”

He said students will perform intricate dances, sing and present traditional costumes in a fashion show. There will also be drumming and the sharing of African rituals such as what was performed during harvest time.

“If you like other cultures, this is the best event of the semester,” said Mohamedali. “There is nothing like African and Caribbean dances.”

He explained that people who appreciate cultures, especially studying such disciplines as anthropology and philosophy, should attend. The show will present traditional African ways.

One of the many purposes of the ASU, as stated in its constitution, is to raise awareness and arouse interest in African cultures and affairs within Northern Kentucky University and the Northern Kentucky community. The ASU also provides an organization which enables African students to share the cultural wealth of the African continent with NKU.

Officers of the ASU represent many different African and Caribbean countries which found at NKU: Victoria Uti, president, is from Nigeria; Ghana is represented by Prince Ellis, vice president and Adil Inusah, cultural chair; Jane Muindi, secretary, hails from Kenya; Eleanor Wells, assistant secretary comes from Trinidad; Zimbabwe sent us Nelia Manhema, Treasurer; Mohamedali is from Tanzania; and the faculty adviser, Dr. Ernest Barnett, is from Sierra-leone. The ASU received the NKU Best New Organization award for 2001.

Mohamedali advised that because 200 to 250 people are expected to attend, tickets should be purchased in advance. They are on sale at the International Student Affairs office, room 366, for $5 and the show is open to the public. For more information, call 572-6517 or access the ASU’s Web site at asu.nku.edu.