By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

april 22 at festival hall

Cameroonian community invites Red Deerians to return of annual gala

Apr 8, 2023 | 6:00 PM

The Cameroonian Association of Central Alberta is set to host its third community gala later this month in Red Deer, and you’re invited.

The event takes place April 22 at Festival Hall (4214 58 Street, Red Deer). It is the event’s first time happening since before the COVID-19 pandemic took hold.

Crepin Mapout, the organization’s senior advisor, says the event is an invitation for the public to discover Cameroonian culture.

“Cameroon has a rich and diverse culture made up of a mix of about 250 local populations and just as many languages and customs. The country is nicknamed ‘Little Africa,'” shares Mapout.

“While being a minority group in Red Deer, we would like all Red Deerians to come and experience firsthand the diverse offerings of culture and artistic expression found in the Cameroonian heritage. This is a great opportunity to discover learn about something different.”

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The gala will feature, among other things, a buffet, folkloric Cameroonian dancing, a fashion parade and art, as well as a raffle.

Mapout says estimates put the Cameroonian population across central Alberta at about 80 people.

The organization has been active in the past, including at Canada Day celebrations and during the 2019 Canada Winter Games, Mapout says.

He admits the Cameroonian community’s greatest challenge is inclusion and integration, yet another reason for Red Deerians to attend on April 22.

“The public should know that what appears easy to some might be totally new and challenging to others,” he says. “An example might be being accustomed to winter driving and/or properly dressing for winter. We come from a warm climate and it takes experience to become accustomed here.”

Tickets cost $35 per adult, $60 for a couple, and $15 for children over eight. VIP tables are also available.

For more information, call 403-304-5401 or 403-392-5216, Tickets can also be purchased at Flikky Market (4805 48 Street), Chi-Buking Market (6838 50 Avenue) or Keps Beauty (5201 54 Avenue).