**The Ozo running club, founded by Nigerian expatriates in London, fosters a sense of belonging through weekly runs, cultural pride, and the shared experience of their Igbo heritage.**
**Ozo Running Club: A Cultural Haven for Igbos in London**
**Ozo Running Club: A Cultural Haven for Igbos in London**
**Nigerian diaspora finds community and cultural connection through running in London's Hyde Park.**
At London's iconic Hyde Park, a unique gathering takes place every Saturday at 11:00 AM, where Nigerians of Igbo descent converge for their weekly jogs. The Ozo running club, established by individuals seeking to celebrate and connect with their cultural roots, has quickly grown to over 300 members in less than three months. Co-founders Chibueze Odoemene, Emeka Atumonyogo, and Chigo Ogbonna strive to create an inclusive environment where young Igbos can find community away from home.
The rise of running clubs globally reflects a substantial shift in social connections, evidenced by a reported 59% increase in running club participation this year. However, for the Ozo running club, the ethos transcends physical fitness; it fosters friendships and camaraderie. As they gather, the air resonates with the sounds of Afrobeats, and the traditional Igbo call-and-response continues to underscore their shared identity.
"We aim to create unity, community, and love among our participants," said Odoemene, as he initiates the chants that bind them together. Members find joy not only in running but in networking and establishing lasting friendships, with aspirations for potential romantic connections being a delightful bonus.
Participants like Francesca Ngozi Ezennolim and Jennifer Iwuamadi express the profound value of engaging with fellow Igbos, emphasizing the rarity of such connections back home. Despite the growing number of Igbos in the UK—from 8,000 to 11,000 in the last decade—many feel a cultural preservation is essential, especially in light of past warnings regarding the extinction of the Igbo language.
In contrast to the prominence of Yoruba culture in popular Nigerian narratives, many Igbos feel marginalization. For example, acclaimed authors from the Igbo lineage have gained international recognition, yet Igbo identity tends to be overshadowed in the broader conversation about Nigeria. The Ozo running club aims to combat this narrative, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the Igbo people while encouraging dialogues among various ethnic groups.
Despite the camaraderie and cultural pride, the legacy of historical conflicts—like the Biafran war—lingers, shaping perceptions of Igbos both in Nigeria and the diaspora. Echoing Chinua Achebe’s sentiments on the relentless resentment faced by Igbos, members express a desire to redefine their identity within the UK and beyond.
The Ozo running club facilitates more than just running; it hosts regular social outings and cultural events aimed at promoting Igbo culture while remaining open to individuals from various backgrounds. As they conclude their sessions, laughter and shared stories fill the air, promising ongoing friendships and unity, challenging the stereotype that limits Nigeria to a singular narrative.
In a world where cultural connections can often feel distant, the Ozo running club emerges as a beacon of community, affirming that together—whether through running or cultural celebration—individuals can cultivate something much more significant than personal fitness; they can nurture an enduring sense of belonging and pride.
