By Gbenga Sodeinde
On the evening of November 21, 2024, the São Paulo Legislative Assembly hosted a remarkable event celebrating culture, ancestry, and Afro-descendant resilience in Brazil: the 10th Asè Isese Awards.
Conceived by cultural leader,
and Oba (Ogboni ) worldwide, His Royal Highness , Oba Adekunle Aderonmu , the event gathered a diverse audience and delivered heartfelt tributes to individuals actively contributing to the preservation and promotion of African traditions.
With the presence of religious leaders, activists, artists, and representatives from various fields, the ceremony reinforced the importance of the award as a symbol of recognition for the contributions of Afro-descendants to the construction of Brazilian cultural identity.
Emotional tributes and a new spotlight on sports
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the presentation of the Inaugural Athlete of the Year Award.
A groundbreaking initiative highlighting the role of athletes in promoting representation and strengthening Afro-Brazilian identity.
The award was received with enthusiasm and emotion, solidifying the importance of sports as a means of social transformation.
“The award is not just an individual recognition but a reminder of how much we can achieve together as a community. Sports, like culture, is resistance, is struggle, and is identity,” said one of the honorees during the event.
A space for celebration and reflection
Throughout the night, inspiring speeches underscored the importance of resisting the historical erasure of African contributions and valuing ancestry as a source of strength and pride.
The program also featured cultural performances that captivated the audience, bringing music, dance, and traditional elements that connected attendees to African roots.
“To celebrate Asè Isese is to celebrate our history, our resistance, and our future. Every honoree tonight carries a piece of the struggle and achievements of our community. We are all united to keep this flame alive,” affirmed Oba Adekunle Aderonmu as he closed the event with Legacy reinforced
