East African Community Association Dance Group
This group is composed of highly talented dancers, originally from the East African Community Association of Canberra. They perform entertaining dances that showcase the East African region multiculturalism and the rich cultural diversity of seven countries, namely Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan and the Democratic of Republic of Congo. The region boasts a highly diverse and rich culture, hundreds of languages, traditional ceremonies, dance, dress/attire, jewellery, artifacts and traditional footwear. The group was nominated and won the 2024 Afrocentric Entertainment Award at the prestigious annual Celebration of Africa Australian Dinner and Dance Event.
The dance group was an initiative with the aim of community participation and promotion of social integration of East African community into the ACT society. It delivers additional benefits to women and men who are passionate about dancing for self-care and mental wellbeing, as it encourages physical activity and social interaction which reduces isolation and promotes networking.
The group has performed in 25 events and functions since 2022, including National Multicultural Festival, Gungahlin Festival, ACT regional festivals, Canberra Day, Australia Day, Africa Day, East Africa Independence days, community events and functions. The group also performs workshops during which the audience joins in to learn the dance moves for an all-inclusive African vibe experience.