Year 13 student Izzie writes about this week’s African dance workshop and disco below.
As October draws to a close, it marks the end of Black History Month, and here at Myton we’ve spent the month bringing awareness to the experiences black people have faced historically as well as presently. We are embracing the motto ‘young, black and listened to’ which reflects Myton’s purpose of fostering a safe and comfortable environment for students of all backgrounds. We have also been celebrating the rich culture of black heritage, specifically with the Afrobeats dance workshop and disco that was held on Monday night. Organised by Miss Zahran and Miss Jones, the Upper School Hall hosted students and their parents, for an evening honouring African dance and music.
The first part of the evening revolved around an African dance workshop, led by former Myton student Grace. She spoke directly to the students, reflecting on her time at the school. Grace explained that when she’s performing she goes by the name Majesty, because dancing makes her feel like a queen. Alter egos have been famously adopted by renowned performers like Beyonce (Sasha Fierce) and Nicki Minaj (Roman), and are used as a source of freedom and liberation from unfair perceptions, such as those black people face.
Grace taught two dances to the students and families and the atmosphere was enthusiastic throughout. Everyone was joining in and trying their best to learn the moves. The smiling faces and laughter reflected the belongingness and acceptance that we prioritse here at Myton.
The second half of the evening was all about the disco. There was Afrobeats music from artists such as Rema and Burna Boy that people could dance freely to, and towards the end of the evening there were also some quintessential party classics that had everyone up dancing, such as ‘Macarena’ and ‘Cha Cha Slide’. The idea of community that we nurture at Myton was ever-present throughout the event and showed the sincere efforts that the school is making to become as inclusive and welcoming as it should be.
Izzie, Year 13
