Queen Idia, Iyoba of Ancient Benin & Africa by Akuba 2020

At the start of British lockdown, March 2020 I recorded this story of Iyoba Idia, the first Queen Mother of Ancient Benin to engage young people and students who are interested in black, African history and are unable to attend school due to the pandemic. In 2010 I was inspired to undertake research for a storytelling presentation at the British Museum (BM) in front of the Benin Bronzes, where I work. Since then over the years I’ve also toured several schools and taken part in Black History Season community events around London to share the story of this magnificent Queen who still remains relatively unknown or unsung in British History for schools, even though on display and celebrated at the BM in the African Gallery 25. As of woman of west African/Ghanaian descent and a passionate storyteller I’m proud to be bringing to you this narrative, supported with imagery from various sources, and credited. The thumbnail image is of me, bowing to Queen Idia at the BM, and is credited to TUUP, internationally acclaimed storyteller & musician (https://tuup-storyteller.wixsite.com/tuup).

The video has been made for educational and not commercial purposes. I hope it inspires further interest and research into Idia. Enjoy! If you want to get in touch email me at wappy@live.com. I’m also Director of WAPPY (Writing, Acting & Publishing Project for Youngsters): www.wappy.org.uk.

Видео Queen Idia, Iyoba of Ancient Benin & Africa by Akuba 2020 канала Grace Quansah