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Dr. Adeshola Afolabi is the President of the Yoruba Parapo Association, a vibrant cultural organization for Yoruba descendants in the State of Indiana, United States. In this interview with MURITALA AYINLA, he discusses the vital role the association plays in uniting the Yoruba community abroad and preserving a rich cultural legacy for future generations.
Can you briefly tell us about the history and mission of Yoruba Parapo Association?
Thank you for the question. My name is Dr. Adeshola Afolabi, and I currently have the honor of being the serving President of the Yoruba Parapo Association here in Indiana. Before diving into our work, it’s important for the public to understand who the Yoruba people are as well as a brief history of Yoruba the huge settlement of Yorubas in this state of Indiana. The Yorubas are one of the largest and most historically rich ethnic groups in Africa, with deep cultural roots extending from Nigeria and Benin to various parts of the world.
Our current generation settlement in Indiana was facilitated by our brethren from Ile Oluji of Ondo state. It began in the 80s when America started the Visa lottery program.
On that note, it’s not surprising that Ile Oluji is the most populous of all African immigrants in our beloved state of Indiana, with their Ile Oluji cultural association occupying a central role in the formation and running of Yoruba Parapo.
As for the Yoruba Parapo Indiana formation, the idea was brilliantly conceived in 2022 by a passionate group of Yoruba immigrants and cultural enthusiasts who saw the slow communal progress created by the huge vacuum that existed among our Yoruba community at the time.
As evident by our name, Yoruba Parapo’s vision is to preserve our heritage in the diaspora. Our mission is to promote Yoruba culture, foster unity among Yoruba descendants, and support community development through education, cultural programming, and mutual assistance.
What prompted the formation of the Yoruba Parapo Association in the United States?
It’s a documented fact that Yoruba culture has a stringent, enduring legacy, leading to the maintenance of a vibrant culture for centuries in Africa and beyond. As such, our beautiful traditions have spread across continents—to Europe, Brazil, Trinidad, and Cuba, to Haiti, Saint Lucia, and the U.S. This global dispersion makes it all the more critical for us to unify, especially in diaspora settings.
The need to come together as a united and culturally grounded group cannot be overstated. Without collective effort, our children and future generations risk losing their sense of identity, language, and values that make the Yoruba culture one of the most celebrated in the world. As President, I lead a dedicated team focused on strategic planning, community engagement, and cultural preservation both locally and internationally.
What personally inspired you to lead this organization?
My deep connection to Yoruba heritage and a strong sense of service to the community inspired me to take on this role. I recognized a need to strengthen cultural identity among our people, especially younger generations growing up outside Nigeria. I wanted to help build a structured platform where our traditions, values, and stories could be passed down with pride and purpose.
Also, it’s important to highlight the strength and resilience of Nigerians, particularly the Yoruba community, in the United States. Research shows we are among the most educated immigrant groups, and we contribute meaningfully to sectors such as healthcare, technology, law, business, and public service.
Here in Indiana, the Yoruba population is estimated at around 10,000, with concentrations in counties like Marion, Hendricks, Hamilton, Brownsburg, and Camby. We’re proud to say that our community includes entrepreneurs, medical professionals, engineers, factory workers, and public servants. As such, the Yorubas are a formidable political and cultural force in Indiana, and we aim to use that strength to empower and uplift our people.
How has the Association evolved since its inception?
We’ve come a long way. What started as a small circle of like-minded individuals has grown into a vibrant, multi-generational organization. While we began primarily via cultural exploration, our scope has expanded to include cultural education, mentorship, youth engagement, and advocacy initiatives. We’ve also embraced digital platforms to connect with Yoruba people far and beyond Indiana.
What are some of the key programs or initiatives currently underway?
We’re excited about several initiatives, including the plan to launch a Yoruba Language and Heritage School for children and teenagers, a monthly cultural forum, and a community welfare program to support families in need.
Our proposed annual Yoruba picnic and carnival will be a major highlight, featuring traditional music, dance, cuisine, and art. We are also partnering with local schools to integrate Yoruba cultural studies into their curriculum, promoting multicultural understanding.
How does the Association work to preserve Yoruba culture in Indiana?
We take a multi-faceted approach—language classes, storytelling sessions, cultural events like Yoruba picnic, Yoruba Carnival, traditional naming ceremonies, and dance showcases all play a role. These events bring people together and reinforce our shared identity. Through social media, virtual workshops, and online storytelling, we’re reaching not just local members but Yoruba descendants across the globe.
What steps have you taken to connect younger generations to their Yoruba heritage?
Youth engagement must be our top priority if we’re serious about passing this beautiful heritage of ours to our generations to follow in this diaspora. In this context, we plan to run mentorship programs, organize cultural immersion camps, and offer Yoruba language classes to reinforce pride in our children’s Yoruba identity. We also encourage young people to take leadership roles within the Association, consistent with the Yoruba proverb “ Orisa ti a ko ba fi han Omo, ko ni pe parun.”The youth’s vibrant energy and technology savviness, and creativity are key to ensuring our work continues well into the future.
What memorable moment that reflects the Association’s impact do you hope to share soon?
I envision a day, perhaps at one of our Yoruba Cultural Days, when a young girl or boy, born and raised here in Indiana, will confidently deliver a speech entirely in Yoruba. That moment will be deeply emotional and powerful. I look forward to the day when our children will win a global scholarship or hold public office, proudly representing their heritage. These milestones will affirm that our efforts are making a lasting difference.
What are some challenges you’ve faced leading a cultural organization in a diverse state like Indiana?
Cultural relevance is a key challenge, particularly in a multicultural society where younger generations are often more influenced by mainstream American culture. Encouraging members of the diaspora to understand and embrace the Association’s mission can also be difficult. Additionally, funding remains a persistent challenge, as cultural programming is often underfunded.
How do you attract and retain members, especially among second- and third-generation Yoruba-Americans?
Simply by value creation. By creating beneficial programs that resonate with their interest and aspirations, leadership workshops, creative arts projects, and digital storytelling. We also use social media to reach younger audiences while continuing to conceive and host engaging and relatable events. Youth ambassadors play an essential role in bridging generational divides.
What opportunities exist for collaboration with other African or multicultural organizations?
There’s a tremendous opportunity for cross-cultural partnerships. We’re exploring joint festivals, cultural exchange programs, and educational collaborations. These alliances help amplify African voices, promote shared values, and build stronger, more unified communities. We’ve begun conversations with several organizations and are optimistic about formalizing these relationships soon.
Are there any upcoming events or initiatives the community should anticipate?
Absolutely. We’re gearing up to host the 2nd Quarter meeting of Egbe Omo Yoruba of North America ( EOYNA) between May 16th to 18th here in Indiana. Additionally, we’re launching an oral history project to document diaspora stories and a youth innovation challenge that combines traditional wisdom with modern problem-solving. These events will be open to the public and promise to be both inspiring and educational.
What are your top goals for the Association in the coming years?
We plan to establish a Yoruba Language School, build a Yoruba Cultural and Community Center, expand scholarship opportunities, and form long-term partnerships with educational and civic institutions. We aim to position Yoruba Parapo as a leading cultural hub in the Midwest.
How can individuals outside the Yoruba community support your work?
We welcome everyone to be part of our journey. You can attend our events, volunteer, collaborate with us, or offer mentorship. Cultural exchange thrives on inclusivity. Donations, expertise, and shared experiences from friends of other cultures enrich our mission and expand our reach.
What message would you like to share with the broader Indiana community about Yoruba Parapo’s vision and values?
Our vision is anchored in unity, cultural pride, and community development. We believe cultural identity is essential for both personal and communal growth. Through Yoruba Parapo, we aim to build bridges of understanding and appreciation across cultures. Our core values—respect, collaboration, education, and resilience—guide everything we do.
How can interested individuals get involved, volunteer, or become members?
It’s easy! Connect with your respective cultural associations. By being a member of your associations, you’re a member of Yoruba Parapo, which is mainly a federation of member Organizations in Indiana, such as Ile Oluji Cultural Association, Ibadan Descendant Union, Ogbomosho Sons and Daughters, Oke Ogun Descendants Union, Ijebu Descendant Union, Osun Descendants Union, etc. To stay current on our programs, you’re also encouraged to join the Yoruba Parapo WhatsApp group and Facebook page. Visit our website or connect with us on social media to learn more. We host monthly elders meetings and welcome volunteers for various activities. Becoming a member simply requires interest and commitment. You’ll be joining a vibrant, supportive, and purpose-driven cultural family.
