The Ghanaian community in the Chicago metropolitan area is celebrated for its vibrant energy and lively events, especially throughout the summer months. This year, with the cancellation of the much-anticipated Ghanafest, the community’s outdoor gatherings took on an even greater significance. Among these, the Southern Volta Association’s (SVA) annual picnic stood out as a spectacular celebration of heritage, camaraderie, and community spirit.
This year’s SVA annual picnic drew its largest crowd ever, with over 250 attendees, including many who came from outside the association to show their support. The atmosphere was a vibrant tapestry of community pride, with members dressed in custom White T-shirts emblazoned with the SVA logo, creating a striking visual of unity. The day began with a powerful blessing from Reverend Dzifanu Agbenya and Father Pius Kokose, who together placed the event in the hands of God, setting a tone of gratitude and togetherness.
The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of authentic Ghanaian cuisine. A variety of traditional delicacies were on offer, from the satisfying crunch of boflot and freshly roasted corn to the rich flavors of “Dzenkple”, a staple of the Volta region. Attendees feasted on a diverse spread of dishes, including spicy okra soup, savory Jollof rice, and the beloved combination of fufu and goat soup, all prepared with the care and authenticity of home.
Beyond the food, the picnic was a day of joyful activities and heartfelt recognition. Attendees received miniature SVA flags and commemorative pens as souvenirs. Founding members of the association were honored for their vision and dedication, with a special award presented to Paul Sogbe, the association’s first president and founding member, for his unwavering leadership and commitment.
The spirit of fun was alive with classic games like egg races, tug-of-war, and musical chairs, bringing out the competitive and playful side of all ages.
The picnic also served as a moment for growth, with aspiring members seizing the opportunity to register and become part of the SVA family. The sense of belonging was further highlighted by a special birthday celebration for all members born in August, complete with a cake and a chorus of “Happy Birthday.”
Without Ghanafest, the SVA crafted its own moment of cultural pride, showing everyone that heritage isn’t limited to festivals,it thrives in every gathering, every gesture, and every beat of music.
In moments like these, the Southern Volta Association reminds us that culture is not a relic,it is a living bond. It is the laughter shared over fufu, the wisdom passed through prayer, the pride stitched into a T-shirt, and the rhythm of a drum that calls generations to gather. When people are bound by heritage and lifted by community, they do more than celebrate, they endure, they inspire, and they build legacies that echo far beyond the summer sun.
Pictures of the event (A and B) are below, capturing the vibrant spirit, cultural pride, and joyful unity that defined this unforgettable celebration.
A
B
