Thembela Lubimbi Provides an “AFRICAN EXPERIENCE”

Thembela Lubimbi,  opening and introducing her exhibition project; “Experience Africa” had this to say.

“We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand

that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their colour” –

“Africa has become synonymous with poverty, drought, conflict and

such struggles. Whilst sadly, these issues do exist, as in any other part of the world, it

is not the full story of Africa.”

The aim of the event “Experience Africa” is to tell the less told story about

Africa and celebrate Africa. It aimed to provide and project a deeper

appreciation of Africa’s diverse nations, culture, history and contribution to the world.

This was done through a gallery exhibition, knowledge games, display of ‘African

attire’, African Hair Braiding Booth, music and food.

Thembela Lubimbi, a Zimbabwean Post Graduate student at the Irish Centre for Human Rights, University of Galway, Ireland studying for a Masters of laws (LLM) was awarded a grant by the Office of the Vice President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Galway Ireland to implement a project to coincide with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

The Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the

University of Galway introduced the inaugural Nelson Mandela Anti-Racism Week

from 20th – 24th March this year. The week of events was programmed to coincide

with International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, annually

observed on March 21st. It was also designed to commemorate the 20th anniversary.

of the awarding of an honorary doctorate to Nelson Mandela by the University of

Galway in 2003. The range of initiatives outlined in this programme included both

student and staff led activities such as workshops, a diversity café, exhibitions, virtual

reality experience, training, films and cultural events.

The events were designed to be deliberative and interactive, facilitating discussion, learning and engagement on a

wide range of issues relevant to race, ethnicity and anti-racism.