The 3rd edition of the Youth Festival of Arts and Culture, Youth FESTAC, has come to a close in Bamenda. The event brought together hundreds of young talents from the North West region and beyond. The festival, organised by Youth Outreach Programme, YOP, celebrated the rich African culture through music, dance, fashion, and art.
The festival, which began on June 13, featured a range of activities, including a cross-country race, workshops, cultural performances, and competitions. According to Omer Songwe, Coordinator of YOP, the annual event aims to celebrate young talents, as the World commemorates the Day of the African Child on June 16. This year’s theme is “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights.”
Participants engaged in hands-on activities, learning about solar energy, disability awareness, entrepreneurship, and cultural pride, and performances. The sessions were designed to empower young people with the skills and confidence to lead change in their communities.
The winners of the different categories received cash prizes, with Forest Children emerging best in cultural dance, Zion Dance group coming first in traditional dance, and Eddy Fashion retaining the first position in Fashion Design.
“We’re proud of the contestants in all categories. They performed so well that even the judges found it difficult to select the winners. The sustainability of the festival relies on the community’s interest. We only organize; as long as there are groups interested in showcasing their culture, the festival will continue.” Omer Songwe, Coordinator of YOP.
The festival showcased the rich cultural heritage of the North West region and Cameroon, with participants learning traditional embroidery and marking the North West traditional regalia.
