Sally Oneke Nchor
For iCameroon
What song has Miss Awa for iCameroon.
Patriotism, Patriotism,Patriotism.
You have a collection of Clothes carrying the flag of Cameroon. One would virtually Say you are a true Cameroonian. What message do you send out with the green, red, yellow and yellow star?
Each color of the flag has a specific word of inspiration, which is the message that I continue passing on. The green stands for hope. As Cameroonians and believers of the most high, we continuously pray and hope for the best. The red, together with the star symbolizes unity. There is power in unity. We need to get to the point where we all can speak as one person on behalf of our nation. The yellow strip symbolizes the sun as our source of happiness.
Cameroon singer (Awa Darkjoel) shows off Cameroon colours on stage
With all the ‘tombs up’ for you especially when you appear in Cameroon flag attire. How Patriotic is Miss Awah Darkjoel?
Patriotism in simple words is love for one’s country. I make efforts to represent Cameroon where ever I am. I lift up my country’s image, and orient non Cameroonians about that beautiful pride, west of the Mongo. I am a lover and respecter of the national anthem. I want Cameroon to be known worldwide.
Is Patriotism a call?
I believe that everything that is good and perfect comes from God alone. I love what I do, so I will say that this zeal and inspirations are of God.
Your wardrobe of Cameroonian patriotic is interesting. How do you come about the designs and who does the fabricating?
Darkjoel in her cameroon made dress
I create the design in my head, and then explain the mental picture of it to my seamstress. She makes a drawing of what I explain in my presence for confirmation. When all this is done, she goes ahead with the sewing. I do a lot of improvising with the other items of my outfit.
You are Cameroonian resident in Boston. What difficulty do you have in patronizing your country considering you away from home?
This is not really a difficulty, but each time I am in my flag attire, I have to constantly explain and answer questions from non-Cameroonians who most often ask of its significance.
How often do you lift the Cameroon flag?
The Cameroon cultural day in Massachusetts is an “All flag day” for me. This means that everything that I wear from head to toe, carries the Cameroon flag. I also wear my Cameroon flag attire in other special occasion such as the Cameroon Youth day celebration. When I am invited to represent Cameroon, I appear in the flag colors. Earlier this year, I represented Cameroon in an African festival in Atlanta. Finally, I lift up the flag whenever I feel the urge to, be it in an occasion or in my bedroom.
Cameroon loves and needs patriots like you. What message do you have for other Cameroonians out there?
Cameroonians, be proud of your heritage. Love it even when you feel as though there is nothing to show forth.
Awa Darkjoel flying the Cameroon colours
You may move out of Cameroon, claim another nationality or adopt a different culture; all these will not change who you are. Remember that when born of a Cameroonian, you forever remain a Cameroonian because you carry the ancestral lineage within you. Please, let’s make effort not to be too negative of our country because we do not like the actions of one person, or a group of people. When we express our concerns about Cameroon, let’s not forget to also give the positive feedbacks. There are so many good things to say about Cameroon, some of which include the fertile soil, our families, our neighbors, our school mates and teachers, those who were there for us when we were in need. These and other reasons are good enough to make us think well of our Fatherland. Let us all continue to work hard and hold on to our dreams. For with God on our side, these dreams will one day become realities.
Who is Awah Darkjoel?
I am originally a Meta Lady from Momo division of the North West Province. I was born and raised in Kumba, South West Region. My parents are Mr Awah George Aguh and Regina Ngum Awah. I grew up with my four siblings, and together we moved to The United State of America in 2009. I am currently a Registered Nurse in the State of Massachusetts and continuing my education in the University of Massachusetts, Boston. I am a singer and I love singing and advocating for the less privileged such as the sick, disabled and the elderly.
