American University’s African Student Organization held its annual pageant celebrating African culture with food, dancing, a talent contest and the crowning of “Mr. and Ms. ASO” on Saturday Nov. 9. Even though this was only the pageant’s second year, the enthusiasm and attendance for the event exploded, with over 150 people crowding inside of the Tavern.

“I’m really glad that it the tradition is continuing,” said Cara Bernard, who was crowned Ms. ASO in the previous pageant. “Its important to hear the culture of Africa’s voices, especially since American University is so big on international relations.”

The six pageant contestants represented the countries they are from: Alexis Gbemudu represented Nigeria, Lisa Lumeya represented the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nick Pierce represented Egypt, Redouane Quanaya represented Morocco, Rolland Appiah represented Ghana and Terwase Tor-agbidye represented Nigeria.

Every contestant brought a unique aspect of African culture to the event. Lumeya, Tor-agbidye and Appiah artfully combined the quick, stomping movements of African dance with modern dance to songs like “Waka Waka,” “Papaoutai” and “Billy Jean.” Gbemudu, Pierce and Quanaya preformed spoken word—a cross between poetry and rap—about the continent. Each performance ended with applause, snaps and loud cheering.

“The pageant is a time when people of all cultures can come together and just enjoy a lot of great dancing and performances,” said Ud Nnamdi, who attended last year’s pageant. “And the food is really awesome.”

Members of ASO served dinner—a delicious medley of plantains, meat pies, rice and chicken.

Following dinner and the talent show, contestants answered questions, including why they wanted to be the new Mr./Ms. ASO and what they thought about Africa’s future. They also described their countries’s cultures.

“Africa is moving forward,” Rolland said. Every one of them had high hopes for the continent and shared a collective pride in their roots.

ASO crowned Appiah the new Mr. ASO and Lumeya the new Ms. ASO. Four judges, a combination of student and faculty, chose Appiah and Lumeya based on their superb dancing and knowledgeable answers.

The event is about more than who wears the crown at the end of the night. It is about sharing African culture, pride and unity with everyone.