Young, Gifted & Black
Boasting over 50 youth performers aged 7 - 17, Young, Gifted and Black is Oaklandʼs acclaimed youth poetry performance group that teaches Black History via poetry, rap and song. Founded and directed by respected scholars and community organizers, Laroilyn and Hodari Davis, YGB has performed locally, nationally and internationally. Currently gearing up for a return visit to Ghana in Summer of 2014, YGB offers youth an intimate and powerful medium to learn, share and celebrate their roots. Shaping the next generation to become stronger in voice, character and spirit, YGB is regularly featured in Oratorical Fest competitions, Black History Month celebrations and stages across the Bay Area. Visit Young, Gifted, & Black for a schedule of upcoming performances.
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Taste of Africa Pop-Up Cameroonian Cuisine
On any given Tuesday evening, friends, lovers and connoisseurs of West African food (and good music) can be found at Grand Lakeʼs Room 389. With a sweet soundtrack laid down by DJ Cali and friends, youʼll find Taste of Africa Chef Malong Pendar dishing up some of Cameroonʼs best known dishes, including Ndole, Koki, Sule (my personal favorite), Ewole, Jollof and other specialities. Head's up, the servings are generous and the home made hot sauce might make your head spin. Tuesday nights at Room 389, 389 Grand Ave, Oakland 8PM-11pm (21+).
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Also Be Sure To Catch:
The African American Museum and Library, Miliki Nigerian Cuisine, Enssaro Cafe and Sankofa Vine Accessories. Sistahs of the Drum is the city's all female percussion ensemble. Launching in 2013 as a summertime event, the Umoja Festival and Soccer Tournament returned as an annual community festival in celebration of music, food, family, and physical wellness. Look out for this year's festival Saturday August 16th in West Oakland.
