At London’s iconic Hyde Park, a vibrant community of runners gathered on a crisp Saturday morning around 11:00, primarily consisting of Nigerians from the Igbo ethnic group. This gathering marked the weekly meeting of the Ozo running club, a group founded to celebrate and strengthen the cultural ties of one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic communities.
Chibueze Odoemene, one of the co-founders, expressed the club’s mission: “We wanted to create a space where young Igbo people could connect and reconnect to their culture.” In just three months, the Ozo running club has amassed over 300 members, highlighting the growing trend of social running clubs around the world.
Research shows a significant increase in running club participation globally, with many seeking community and camaraderie beyond mere fitness. For the Ozo running club, these weekly meet-ups on Saturdays evolve into a heartfelt connection where newcomers quickly transform into a family-like atmosphere.
As participants waited to join various speed groups—ranging from fast to walking pace—an electric energy filled the air, enhanced by the lively beats of Afrobeats music coming from nearby speakers. Mr. Odoemene garnered attention with the traditional Igbo greeting, “Igbo kwenu!” which was met by a chorus of enthusiastic responses, fostering unity and cultural pride among members.
The Ozo running club serves as a nurturing ground where people can forge friendships and perhaps even find love, although the primary concern remains building a vibrant community. Francesca Ngozi Ezennolim, a 21-year-old participant, journeyed from Reading, UK, driven by the promise of connecting with fellow Igbo individuals. “I don’t have a lot of Igbo friends,” she reflected, emphasizing the importance of such community spaces.
This sentiment was echoed by 23-year-old Jennifer Iwuamadi, who noted the significance of engaging with others from the same ethnic background while highlighting the club’s dual purpose: fitness and networking.
Despite the cultural richness of the Igbo community, there are increasing concerns about the potential decline of their heritage, especially given predictions about the future of the Igbo language. Nonetheless, the number of Igbo individuals in the UK has grown from approximately 8,000 to 11,000 over the past decade, revealing the vibrant pulse of the community abroad.
While the Ozo running club embraces individuals from diverse backgrounds—inviting everyone to partake in activities and learn about Igbo culture—the co-founders clarified that their focus is not exclusive. “You don’t have to be Igbo to come to the run club,” Mr. Atumonyogo noted, showcasing the club’s inclusive spirit.
Amidst this joyous scene lies an undercurrent of a more complex narrative surrounding the Igbo people, rooted in their past struggles and historical experiences. These relationships not only bind the members together but also foster a commitment to raise awareness about Igbo contributions and culture, aiming for broader representation in both the UK and globally.
Beyond running sessions, the club organizes monthly social events, including karaoke and themed parties, fostering a rich tapestry of interaction among members. As participants wrapped up their run, connections strengthened, with promises of returning next week, reinforcing the bonds of community and cultural pride.
Through such initiatives, the Ozo running club stands as a testament to the resilience and commitment of Igbo youth in preserving their heritage while forming meaningful relationships.
