Victoria Angelo

Victoria is a traditional African dancer, singer, and storyteller who shares the rich cultural heritage of her childhood in Africa. Her mother is Acholi, and her father is Lulubo, with ancestral roots in Southern Sudan and northern Uganda. In her culture, song and dance are more than just forms of entertainment—they are vital expressions used to celebrate, mourn, and mark significant life events such as births, marriages, and even hunting traditions. These art forms serve as a means of preserving history, culture, and tradition, as well as a way to address contemporary issues.

Before the advent of modern technology and written records, history was passed down through songs and storytelling. Unlike books that can be burned or phones that can lose power, oral traditions remain safe in the hearts and minds of the people. Even in the face of natural disasters or war, cultural heritage endures through music and dance. Traditions and cultural norms functioned as a guiding force, serving as a form of justice, a means of blessing marriages, and a way of teaching children how to navigate life.

Victoria actively keeps her culture alive by speaking the Acholi and Lulubo languages at home, preparing traditional African food, wearing cultural attire, and continuing to sing and dance. Preserving these traditions helps her family stay connected to their roots, providing strength and identity, particularly for younger generations growing up in a new country. As a refugee, she understands the importance of ensuring that children know where they come from, as a strong connection to the past helps them navigate challenges in school, work, and their communities. She also recognizes the physical benefits of dance, which promotes health and well-being. Through her performances and storytelling, Victoria shares the deep cultural significance of African traditions, ensuring they are celebrated and remembered.