Anyone who joined us for Engage!24 The Africa Experience would agree that this Engage! Experience was so much more than a group event. In many ways, it was a journey into the heart of Africa’s rich cultural tapestry. So to set the tone for the 4-day celebration, it was important that the boma welcome party blend the traditions of Africa with modern luxury. With the gorgeous Zambian landscape as the backdrop, attendees were invited to experience Africa like never before. The welcome event promised community, culture, and connection, and boy did it deliver!
The Boma Setting
The boma is an integral part of African culture. Simply put, it is an enclosed outdoor area surrounding a fire. However, in the area’s rich history, it represents more than just a physical space. It is a symbol of community, gathering, and storytelling. Engage!24 Creative Director, Mwai Yeboah, knew it would provide the perfect setting for the attendees’ first evening event. Just as in the earliest days, attendees gathered around the fire, laughing, sharing stories, and connecting with one another. The thoughtful design of the space, with its communal seating and intimate lighting, created a warm and inviting atmosphere that made everyone feel part of a greater whole. It was a reminder that food, conversation, and celebration are the threads that weave a community together.
The Arrival
As attendees made their way to the boma, they were greeted by warriors adorned in intricate masks representing different African regions. The grassy path illuminated by lanterns immediately transported guests to another world. One filled with mystery, beauty, and ancient traditions. Once inside, guests were greeted by a visual feast. Over 100 hanging woven baskets swayed above them, while vibrant linens in rich African prints adorned the tables. A topiary giraffe stood tall, watching over the festivities. Floral arrangements featured native African flowers, both fresh and dried, sourced from local Zambian farms. Menus, designed in the shape of elegant fans with wooden handles, added an extra layer of cultural authenticity. While every detail, from the lighting to the décor, reflected Africa’s vibrant heritage.
Interactive Experiences
Africa is not simply to be observed – it is to be embraced! So the welcome party was designed to be more than a passive celebration. Throughout the evening, guests were invited to explore a variety of interactive stations that celebrated African culture. At the face-painting and hair-braiding stations, attendees were able to embrace local customs in a way that felt personal and immersive. Meanwhile, the beer-tasting station offered a taste of Zambia’s finest brews, showcasing the depth of the region’s flavors. These activities and more were windows into Africa’s rich cultural heritage. They provided an authentic way for attendees to engage with the local culture.
The Menu
Food is the heart of community. So the welcome party’s curated menu, crafted by renowned Chef Coco, was a masterful tribute to local cuisine. The fire-grilled meals offered attendees a journey into Africa’s exotic tastes with dishes like Zambezi Bream cutlets, crocodile steaks, and jollof rice. Guests also enjoyed an array of traditional Zambian favorites such as lusala root vegetable, impwa (eggplant), chikanda sliders, and capenta salad. A dessert station provided indulgences like Zambian mango cheesecake, bayobab-flavored mousse, and hibiscus pavlova, all of which showcased the diversity and richness of African ingredients. From the barbecue station to the artisanal desserts to the free-flowing wine and cocktails, the menu was an exciting reflection of Mama Africa’s bounty.
The Entertainment
No Engage! event is complete without unforgettable entertainment, and the welcome party delivered in spectacular fashion. A diverse lineup of African troupes, warriors, drummers, and dancers filled the night with electrifying performances. Guests were mesmerized by the high-energy acts of the Zambian Circus, while the soulful voices of the Ndlovu Youth Choir added a deeply emotional layer to the evening. The music, the dance, and the storytelling through performance all captured the essence of a continent known for its vibrant spirit and cultural heartbeat.
The night was more than just a party (although it was definitely a party!). It was also an immersive experience that connected each attendee to the land, the people, and the traditions of Africa. As drums echoed under the stars and dancers twirled around the fire, everyone could feel the pulse of this enchanted land running through them. And, like all good Engage! welcome parties, it set the stage for everything that was to come. To see more from this event, visit the full gallery here.
