Cultural Preservation in the Digital Age: Reconnecting with Roots and Belonging in the African Diaspora

In a world increasingly dominated by the digital landscape, preserving cultural identity is both a challenge and an opportunity. As traditional practices and languages face the risk of fading, the need to actively engage in cultural preservation and reclaim our multifaceted cultural identities becomes ever more crucial. My recent experience as the Researcher and Writer in Residence at the Wole Soyinka@90 celebrations at The Africa Centre was a powerful reminder of our deep connections to heritage and the importance of nurturing these ties in a rapidly changing world. Now, a month later, I find myself longing for the sense of community and belonging that the event provided—a connection that now feels distant yet profoundly significant.

During my time at The Africa Centre, I experienced a profound sense of belonging. Surrounded by fellow Nigerians and members of the African Diaspora with shared experiences, I felt at home in a way I hadn’t in years. It wasn’t just about attending events; it was about immersing myself in a space where stories, experiences, and cultural practices were exchanged, deepening our understanding of who we are, where we come from, and our future desires. Simple moments—small talk, shared meals, discussions, listening to music, and dancing—brought our lived histories to life. Now, as I reflect, a lingering sadness remains. It’s not just nostalgia; it’s a deep yearning for the sense of community that the experience provided—a connection that feels distant now that I’ve returned to my routine.

As I sit with these feelings, I ponder the nature of memory and nostalgia. What am I truly longing for? Is it the specific moments of connection, or the broader sense of belonging they represented? Memory is complex and sometimes unreliable, shaped by emotions and the passage of time. The nostalgia I feel is bittersweet—a mix of joy for having experienced such connection and wistfulness for its fleeting nature. This universal feeling, especially for those of us in the Diaspora, reflects the ongoing navigation between our past and present, our cultural heritage, and our current realities.

Different Trajectories in the Diaspora

One of the most profound lessons I learned during the residency was the incredible diversity within the African Diaspora. Each person’s journey is unique—some were born in Africa and migrated elsewhere, others were born in the Diaspora and have never lived in their ancestral homelands. My own experience —born in the UK, raised in Nigeria, and now back in England—adds to this rich tapestry. Conversations with others highlighted the importance of recognizing the nuance and complexity of diaspora identity. No single experience is more valid than another; all journeys are valuable. It’s essential to create spaces where these stories can be shared, reflected upon, and appreciated. Sharing our experiences and listening to others is a powerful way to build communal bonds, mutual respect, and understanding. Like the roots of trees, our diverse experiences intertwine to create a strong, unified foundation. The elders say that "the great tree spirit is like an elephant; strong, loyal, and a guardian of ancient knowledge, holding within its boughs the wisdom of ages". It is through embracing Orísìrísì—the richness of our variety—that we find strength, connection, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other.

Wole Soyinka and the Children

As the Yoruba proverb says, “Agba kì í wa l’ója, k’ori òmò tuntun w??” (literally, "An elder does not sit in the marketplace while the head of a young person gets lost"). This wisdom came to life when he met with children for an event that transcended the usual author-reader dynamic. The children read excerpts from his works, including Ake, Isara, and When Seasons Change. The subsequent question-and-answer session felt more like an intimate conversation. Professor Soyinka engaged with the children on their level, creating a space where everyone felt included and valued.

One striking aspect of the event was the absence of mobile phones. In an age of digital distractions, this gathering was refreshingly present and focused. The room was arranged in a circle, with Wole Soyinka at the center, surrounded by parents and children. I observed from the periphery, taking in the scene, which created concentric circles of connectivity. One mother, beaming with pride, remarked, "Words cannot express my pride in seeing my children listening and learning from one of Nigeria's great sons of the land."

The children eagerly shared their thoughts, with one saying, "It was surreal asking a question to someone as famous as Prof. Wole Soyinka, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature." Another remarked, "He was very intellectual, and I felt I could rely on his words." One young mind wisely observed, "Sometimes you go through difficult things, but something good can come from it. Patience, perseverance, and resilience are important." At the end of the memorable occasion, the children received certificates to mark their participation. "I felt proud of myself for receiving such a certificate," one child expressed. Another added, "It was exciting to meet Wole Soyinka, and I appreciated the opportunity."

In Yoruba culture, the "head" symbolizes one's mind, decisions, and life path, and it is the elder's responsibility to ensure that it does not go astray. Wole Soyinka, embodying the role of the elder, provided guidance and wisdom through his presence and conversation, offering the children a memory that will hopefully shape their lives in meaningful, though perhaps intangible, ways. His engagement with the youth was more than just a passing interaction; it was a significant impartation of values and knowledge, ensuring that these young minds remain anchored as they navigate their paths. In a time dominated by digital communication, this event was a powerful reminder of the importance of face-to-face interactions in preserving cultural bonds. The experience connected the children not only to a significant literary figure but also to each other, fostering a rare sense of community in today’s fast-paced world.

As I reflect on the nine days spent in the vibrant and welcoming embrace of The Africa Centre my heart is filled with immense gratitude. To the organizers Olu Alake CEO The Africa Centre , Dr. Teju Kareem, Dr. Adesola Adeyemi, Peter Badejo, and Jahman Anikulapo ), who curated this inspired experience, and to every person I met especially 'Funmi Adewole Elliott Christiana Omakolo Ugowe , and Linda Gbadamosi who shared this journey, I offer my deepest thanks. You each played a vital role in creating a space where our collective stories could be heard, our cultural bonds could be strengthened, and our identities could be celebrated. It was not just an event; it was a powerful reaffirmation of who we are and where we come from.

In those nine days, we built a community rooted in respect, understanding, and shared heritage—a community that will continue to grow and thrive beyond the time we spent together. As we return to our individual lives, I carry with me the lessons learned, the connections made, and the stories shared. May we all continue to nurture these bonds, supporting each other as we navigate our paths, and may our cultural heritage remain a source of strength and unity in our lives.

Poll: Exploring Belonging in the African Diaspora

As part of my ongoing research about cultural identity and belonging within the African Diaspora, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please take a moment to participate in this poll:

Question: What has been the most significant factor in helping you feel a sense of belonging in the diaspora?

• A) Cultural Events and Celebrations
• B) Connecting with a Community of Shared Experiences
• C) Reflective Practices like Journaling or Storytelling
• D) Engaging with Cultural Heritage through Music and Dance
• E) Other (Please share in the comments)