Belize, Jamaica and West Africa were just some of the places that dancers and dishes for the Taste of Africa came from on Saturday night.

Colorful costumes rhythmically moved to drum beats as dancers from all around the world performed ceremonial and cultural dances for more than 200 attendees.

This was an excellent cultural event according to some students, including Elizabeth Jackson, a senior child development major.

“I thought it was excellent,” Jackson said. “The mixture of African culture, food and dance just proves that African culture is not just for Africans, but for everyone. I think that everyone took a piece of Africa back home with them tonight.”

The Pokomania Caribbean Dance Troupe and the Minianka West African Dance Ensemble performed, while attendees enjoyed dozens of African dishes. Some audience members were even invited on stage to dance along.

Dancers like Rouchana Iagudina, a lead dancer for the Pokomania Dance Troupe, enjoyed the energy.

“I loved how people responded,” Iagudina said.

African Student Association appreciation awards were given out at the event. Among the awards were most dedicated, most involved and graduation achievement. Ewea Omoh took home all three.

“I feel like I worked very hard and that I deserve this,” Omoh said. “I am proud to be a part of this culture and of this organization.”

Al-well Onyegbule, a sophomore corporate communication major, took home the perfect attendance award and was appointed ASA secretary for the 2005-06 school year.

“I feel like I can make some positive changes,” Onyegbule said. “Next year we’re going to try to outdo ourselves.”

Despite the fact that the event was for a good cause, ASA secretary Nini Lawani, a senior health administration major, thought the event could have used more support. Though $1,000 was budgeted, a profit of about $200 was made.

“We worked really hard and put a lot of effort into this event.” Lawani said. “We have struggled and came out on top before, and we can do it again.”