BCA-USA Mirror 2022

BCA-USA MIRROR

2

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

CONTENT Eastern Chapter Report 48 BCA Midwest 49 BCA-USA Southern Texas

50

Southern Chapter Report

52

BCA-USA Oklahoma Chapter Report BCA New England Chapter

54

BCA Northern Texas Report

55

BCA Great Lakes Chapter

56

BCA-USA Class of 2022 Graduates

53

59

Virtual Townhall 2020 60 Convention Cruise 2019: Brunch and sightseeing on Lake Minnetonka 62 Editorial

Mungaka Corner: Njə̂ Bànyàm kà Chɔ̂’ Mfò yàb a

4

President’s Welcome Message

5

BCA-USA 2019 Award Honorees

Executives for 2018 - 2022

10

In Memoriam 2019 - 2022 Paroles de Sagesse

Secretary General’s Report (2018-2022) 11 Board Strategic Initiatives 2016 – 2022

14

Report from the CEC Committee

17

Night of Glamour, 2019 Cultural Night 2019

22 25

Showcasing Bali Heritage to the World

26

Mirror Person of The Year: Ni Clarence Ndangam Network of Bali Young Professionals

65

66

67

Publisher: BCA-USA Publications Committee

20

The BCA-USA Ŋkab Ntɔd Program

27

32

Editorial Advisory Board & Committee Members Ma Lilian Fokwang (Chair) Ma Irene Tita (Vice Chair) Doh Geka (Ni Banyuga Pefok) Ni Jude Fokwang Ba Nkom Gwanbidpua Tangeh Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia (BCA Comptroller) Ni Julius Ndangam (IT and Web Admin) Ba Fomukong (BCA Vice President) Ma Kehmia Tangeh (BCA Publicity Secretary)

BCA Projects in Bali During the Pandemic

34

Editorial Contact: publications@bca-usa.org

Meet BCA-USA’s COVID-19 Frontline Heroes

36

© BCA-USA 2022

BCA Members’ Reflections on the Pandemic and Resilience 38 Highlights of Thursday Welcome Night 2019 Southern California Report BCA Carolinas

42

43

44

Northern Chapter Report

64

Design and Layout: Spears Media Press LLC www.spearsmedia.com Photo credits Ni Pius Teneng

46

Ni Fidelis Kaspa Ma Nyem Fokwang Ni Jude Fokwang

The BCA-USA Mirror is published annually in May by the Publications Committee of the Bali Cultural Association, USA. For article reprints, permissions and licensing, contact the publications committee of the BCA at: publications@bca-usa.org

BCA-USA.ORG

3

BCA-USA MIRROR

EDITORIAL

C

O V I D - 1 9 changed life as we knew it in so many ways.

From the way we communicate, to how we work and care for others, personal relationships, and much more.

Our committee had some things in place to help maintain communications.

For instance, back in 2018 we had created a BCA-USA Zoom account to use for streaming the convention to members who could not attend physically. With the restrictions to large gatherings imposed by the pandemic, various organs of the association including (local chapters and committees) have been able to use the association’s Zoom account for their various meetings.

Despite the disruption to life due to the pandemic, our committee has through the monthly newsletter (Bà sa’ kə ɛ?) continued to inform members of developments within BCA-USA as well as celebrate member milestones.

In addition, we publish an annual review in December highlighting the association’s accomplishments of the year. These electronic publications are sent directly to the email addresses of members and a link shared via text so that members can view it on their mobile devices.

However, with over 1000 members, it is still a challenge to reach every member. We encourage you to subscribe to the newsletter on our website www.bca-usa.org so you don’t miss out on the newsletter and other important communication from BCA-USA. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the BCA-USA Mirror has not been published for two years. This year being our first in-person convention since 2019, we are delighted to present to you another edition of the convention magazine. Within the pages of this magazine, we aim to reflect as much about BCA and its membership as possible through features and

4

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

chapter reports (pages 43 - 57). Other highlights include an extensive interview with outgoing president Ni Clarence Ndangam as he reflects on his time in office (pages 27 - 31). Notwithstanding the challenges of the pandemic, BCA-USA sponsored projects in Bali aimed at improving healthcare and access to water (pages 34 -35). In recognition of how COVID-19 affected our lives in the last two years, we include some member reflections on their experiences and resilience during the pandemic (pages 38 - 41). In celebration of some of the heroes of the pandemic, we feature BCA members who are frontline workers in healthcare (36 - 37). We also remember BCA-USA members who have passed on since our last in-person convention in 2019 (page 66).

May they all rest in peace.

Enjoy reading!

Ma Nyem Fokwang On behalf of the Publications Committee publications@bca-usa.org

BCA-USA MIRROR

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME MESSAGE

Dear Members and Friends n behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Directors (BOD) of Bali Cultural Association in USA (BCA-USA), I am honored to welcome you to the 33rd Annual BCA-USA Convention hosted this year by my home chapter, the Eastern Chapter.

Thank you to each one of you for being a BCA-USA member.

A profound thanks to all who have made the journey to this year’s convention in Herndon, Virginia. BCA-USA continues to grow and thrive because of the commitment and support of our members. I am very pleased to welcome those of you that have been attending conventions for a long time as well as those who are attending for the first time.

Whether you are a first-time or veteran convention attendee, I hope you will find value in participating in this year’s convention. I equally hope you will leave the convention with an affirmed/renewed commitment to BCA-USA and the promotion of

O

our cultural heritage.

We have not been able to meet in-person since the 32nd Annual Convention hosted in Minneapolis in 2019. The past two years have certainly been challenging, as every organization, community and individual has felt the impact of COVID-19. With nationwide and state restrictions on large gatherings, conferences and large meetings had to be shifted to a virtual platform due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020 we hosted a virtual town hall in lieu of the convention and in 2021 we had our first virtual convention using Zoom. The approval of COVID-19 vaccines and the subsequent uptake in vaccinations has helped with reducing the spread of the pandemic resulting in the lifting of restrictions to large gatherings. However, we are not out of the woods as far as the pandemic is concerned. So, part of our preparations for this year’s convention has entailed ensuring the health and safety of our members and children.

For instance, convention babysitting for kids will not be available this weekend owing to the unavailability of vaccines for children under five. As part of our COVID-19 protocols, hand sanitizers and masks will be available throughout the convention weekend.

After six years (with a 2-year extension due to the pandemic), this is my last year as president of BCA-USA. As I step down, I

want to take this opportunity to highlight some of what we have accomplished during my time in office.

1. Record membership growth and Ŋkab Ntɔd enrollment. As of 2022, we have over 1000 members registered compared to 369 when I took over in 2016 and over 900 Ŋkab Ntɔd members.

2. Bore Hole Project: Sponsored construction of 5 boreholes in Bali. A historic accomplishment

by BCA-USA. 3. Yo u t h revival Establishment of a BCA Young Professionals Network bringing together college students and young professionals.

We created a BCA-USA Youth Instagram page, which has now garnered over 100+ followers.

4. Strategic partnership – Formalized and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BCA-USA and Ŋkù’mɨ̀ Fɛd Fɛd in 2022 establishing Ŋkù’mɨ ̀ Fɛd Fɛd as a BCA-USA partner to help with executing projects in Cameroon.

5. Supported healthcare in Bali during the pandemic (construction of COVID19 isolation ward at the Bali District Hospital) to assist healthcare in the community during BCA-USA.ORG

5

BCA-USA MIRROR

Lifetime Achievement Award instituted in 2017

pandemic. to help raise funds and offer humanitarian 6. Established a scholarship program for BCA assistance to people affected by the conflict high school graduates in Bali.

7. Led development of new bylaws and 12. Record fundraising (for MPC, Humanitarian Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Relief) and overall highest ever BCA-USA committees (based on the 2015 constitution). cash balances.

A draft of the bylaws have been approved 13. Redesign of BCA-USA Website, and renewal by the NEC and the BOD pending further of Publications Committee to provide editing by the Constitution and Elections regular BCA-USA Newsletter, which has Committee (CEC). significantly raised membership engagement 8. Provided financial support for Mungaka and created BCA-USA T-Shirt.

Bible Re-translation project 14. Led historic Leadership Summits in 9. Membership and chapter engagement Las Vegas and Miami, which combined through chapter visits and virtual meetings.

Strategic decision making with fun time for Chapter Renewal visits and outreach to participants.

Northern Texas, Great Lakes, Northern, 15. Revamped annual convention to include North Eastern more events for Youths (Kids), fun chapter 10. Foreign relations - engaged and mentored parades and awards and recognition other BCA chapters in the diaspora (BCA (including launching of the BCA-USA Ireland, BCA Ontario) and led the largest Lifetime Achievement Award) delegation of BCA members to attend BCA 16. Created the BCA Vibes group in 2017 Europe convention in Berlin, 2018. Created to enhance member engagement and a BCA Diaspora Leadership forum - which information sharing. encompasses leaders of all key BCA groups 17. Developed cadence for NEC calls to guide in the diaspora - from Canada to Europe monthly meeting agendas.

(Ireland, UK, Belgium, Germany etc.) and Middle East (Qatar and Bahrain) Additionally, during the virtual Leadership 11. Established a Bali Humanitarian Relief Fund Summit in 2021, members in attendance voted 6

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA visit to BCA Europe Convention, Berlin, Germany, 2018

Launched BCA-USA Scholarship Awards for high school graduates

for BCA-USA to sponsor the acquisition of an ambulance to serve the Bali community. In the last few months, a committee to oversee the ambulance project has been set up and the committee’s chairs confirmed by NEC and BOD. The committee has started working on this project and will oversee the execution of the project.

The achievements of the past 6 years would not have been possible without the support of our members as well as the various committee chairs and chapter presidents who assisted in executing some of these initiatives. Thank you all for your support and dedication. Along the way, we encountered

some speed bumps, but these did not deter our focus to make BCA bigger and stronger.

I am immensely grateful for the support of my wife Helen Ndangam, my family and friends who have encouraged and uplifted me throughout my service to BCA-USA, first as Secretary General (2012 - 2016) and subsequently as president (2016 - 2022).

Thank you all so much.

As I step down, I am pleased at how far we have come as an organization. I am cognizant that as BCA continues to grow, more work needs to be done. I encourage you to get involved in your local chapter or volunteer in committees. These avenues provide opportunities to serve BCA and help take the association to the next level.

The Convention Planning Committee has worked hard since February to plan this year’s convention. On behalf of myself and our members, I extend our profound appreciation to this year’s Convention Planning Committee, co-chaired by Ni Augustine Njinjoh (President of Eastern Chapter) and Ma Kehmia Tangeh (Public Relations Officer).

I invite you, your family, and friends, to join us as we use this weekend to celebrate our successes, deliberate on ways to keep strengthening BCAUSA and supporting Bali, as well as elect a new leadership team to keep growing our organization.

I wish you a wonderful convention weekend as we celebrate meeting in-person again.

God Bless BCA-USA. Clarence Ndangam National President, BCA-USA president@bca-usa.org BCA-USA.ORG

7

BCA-USA MIRROR

8

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

0

Hefiiil

Shella A. Olem MAYOR VIRGINIA

T (703) 435-6805 Mayor.Olem@hemdon-va.gov

TOWN COUNCIL ShellaA. Olein, M'if'/Of Cesar del Aguila, \/Ice Mayor Nal1aAlilm Pradlp Dhakal Signe Friedrichs Sean M. Regan Jasblnder Singh

May24,2022

The Bali Cultural Association USA Dear Members & Guests of The Bali Cultural Association (BCA) USA: On behalf of the Town of Herndon and our citizens, welcome to the Town and to the greater Herndon area! We are thrilled you are here to gather and celebrate the 33rd Anniversary of the BCA-USA National Convention this Memorial Day Weekend. This reunion will provide Bali people in the diaspora an opportunity to reflect and celebrate the diverse heritage of the Bali Chamba people of Cameroon.

Herndon is a town with small-town charm and has something to offer everyone ~ from our state-of-the-art Herndon Community Center, to our renowned Herndon Centennial Golf Course, to the Washington and Old Dominion trail, to our quaint downtown ~ we know you will enjoy your time here. Herndon boasts more than 100 great restaurants with cuisine from around the world and is located just minutes from the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Of course, Washington DC is just 22 miles from Herndon, a straight shot via Metrorail's Silver Line. For more information about our restaurants and upcoming events, please visit the town's website at www.herndon-va.gov.

Once again, we welcome you to our community and hope all those in attendance have a wonderful time in Herndon and the Northern Virginia area. Best wishes for an enjoyable and productive BCA-USA National Convention.

Warm Regards,

Sheila A. Olem Mayor

777 Lynn Street, Herndon, VA 20170-4602 hemdon-va.gov

BCA-USA.ORG

9

BCA-USA MIRROR

EXECUTIVES FOR 2018 - 2022

President Ni Clarence Ndangam Chapter: Eastern president@bca-usa.org

Vice President Ba Joe Fomukong Chapter: Southern Texas vicepresident@bca-usa. org

Publicity Secretary Ma Kehmia Tangeh Chapter: Southern Texas publicitysecretary@bca-usa.org

10

Secretary General Ma Valeria Awah Ngafor Chapter: Southern Texas secretarygeneral@bcausa.org

Comptroller Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia Chapter: South Eastern financialcontroller@bca-usa.org

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

Treasurer Ma Vicky Takam Chapter: Eastern treasurer@bca-usa.org

Protocol Officer Ma Susan Nabong Doh Chapter: Eastern chiefwhip@bca-usa.org

BCA-USA MIRROR

SECRETARY GENERAL’S REPORT (2018-2022)

By Valeria Awah-Ngafor Secretary General, BCA-USA

T

hank you to all our members who continue to pay their dues and donate to various BCA projects. Your commitment and support has enabled BCA-USA to grow into 1000+ members. A profound thanks to all members who play a key role in moving BCA-USA forward by volunteering to serve locally, nationally and/or in committees. In my final year as Secretary General, I am delighted to present here a summary of highlights and challenges from the past four years.

In May 2019, we hosted our first convention as a new executive team in Minnesota. As we prepared for the convention, the executive came together and agreed to raise funds at the convention and use the towards humanitarian relief efforts in Bali given how the crisis was taking its toll on the community. This idea was taken to NEC and I must say to our surprise it was a very contentious vote.

NEC however, voted to proceed with the idea, but this was thwarted by the Board of Directors (BOD). Despite the decision of the BOD against this initiative, four BCA members decided to donate their convention VIIP diamond packages towards the relief efforts.

On January 26th 2020, we held our first quarterly town hall conference call which was a resounding success. The format used gave every member a chance to express herself/himself. This gave us a great insight on the pulse of the association.

Throughout 2020, we continued with our monthly meetings while grappling with the decision to cancel or postpone the convention. Under the advice of the then chair of the Constitution and Election Committee (CEC), Ma Lenyonga Fomunung, NEC voted to allow the president to nominate a 9-member Constitution and Interpretation Committee (CIC) to advice on the way forward.

The committee was approved by NEC and the BOD.

Valeria Awah-Ngafor, SG

The CIC met, deliberated and recommended that the current executive should stay for another year until it was feasible to vote a new executive. This was definitely unprecedented. The members of the Executive agreed to stay and run the affairs of the association.

Committee Highlights

Between 2018 and 2021, the Education committee under the leadership of Ni Colins Doh organized, screened, and awarded more than $6000 in scholarships to our high school graduates. Many college-bound students will be receiving scholarship awards this year.

When the country went on Lock down because of the pandemic, the association wasn’t on lock down.

The Publication Committee under the illustrious leadership of Ma Lilian Fokwang a.k.a. Ma Nyem continuously kept the entire BCA informed through the monthly newsletter.

As the pandemic ravaged lives, the Health Committee under the leadership of Ni Nubia Kaba took steps to inform members and raise awareness by disseminating memos on all BCA fora to help members minimize exposure and prevent the spread of the disease. In 2020, with funding of $10,000 from BCA-USA, the Health Committee also oversaw a BCA-USA.ORG

11

BCA-USA MIRROR project which helped the Bali District Hospital to convert one of its wards into an isolation ward for Covid-19 patients. The funding also supported the purchase of masks, protective garments, and training of health workers to undertake Covid-19 sensitization within Bali.

Thanks to the Social and Awards Committee with Ma Pascaline Leina as the chair, BCA kids had a virtual Halloween party in 2020. On December 19, 2020, the committee also hosted a virtual Pajama Christmas party for the children.

During the General Assembly in 2019, the association unanimously adopted a motion to extend financial support to the Mungaka Bible Revision (Re-translation) Project. An ad hoc committee was appointed by the president in September 2019 and work started effectively in December 2019 under the leadership of Ni Jude Fokwang. BCA-USA donated $5000 towards the Mungaka Bible re-translation project to help facilitate the process.

With the decision to postpone the convention, on October 31, 2020, the first ever Virtual Leadership Summit was held with members of the BOD and NEC attending. This meeting was followed by our very first Virtual Town Hall on the same day where members aksed questions about the association.

On March 27th, 2021, NEC approved a project to build five boreholes in Bali. This was later supported by the BOD. As of April 2022, all five boreholes had been completed, thanks to the dedication of the Projects Committee chaired by Ni Goddy Gwaabe.

In 2021, NEC welcomed three new chapter presidents: • Ni Julius Nsah, Northern Texas • Ni Francis Fokwang, Southern Texas • Ni Colins Doh, Carolinas Additionally, Ni Augustine Njinjoh who as chair of the Membership Committee was already a NEC member, took over leadership of the Eastern Chapter after Ni Gabby Njinimbot stepped down in 2021.

This year, with support from NEC, BCA-USA youths and young professionals organized a young professional’s event which resulted in the creation of a platform for Bali youths who are in their junior/ senior year of college going into the workforce as well as Bali youth currently in the workforce to 12

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

network and support each other.

A major focus of the executive and NEC in 2021, was overseeing the editing of the bylaws, the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of all the committees. The President proactively reached out to the BOD, NEC and past presidents, to help get the SOPs completed. The Constitution and Elections Committee (CEC) was reconstituted and tasked to work on the Bylaws. This committee had its first meeting in January and from then on, worked diligently every other week and sometimes weekly to get the bylaws ready for approval by NEC and the BOD. The committee submitted the final draft of the bylaws and the SOPs of all the committees to NEC for review and approval in August. The document was approved by the BOD in the fourth quarter and the NEC in early 2022, pending final editing and corrections before presenting it to the General Assembly.

While the pandemic raged on and prevented large gatherings, on May 26, 2021, we held our second Virtual Convention where we celebrated the class of 2021 graduates, enjoyed virtual chapter parades, and received updates on the state of the association and messages from partner associations.

Later that year the second Virtual Leadership Summit took place on Saturday November 11, 2021.

During the summit, members voted to approve a project for BCA-USA to acquire an ambulance to serve the health needs of Bali. An ad hoc committee co-chaired by Ma Lilian Fomunung and Ni Dr. Eric Njiforfut has been created by the president, to oversee the execution of this project.

Reflections

‘A community is like a ship, everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm.” Consequently, serving my community comes naturally. As the outgoing Secretary General of BCA-USA, my journey in this position has been successful, unprecedented, and challenging.

Time Management Once I assumed my role as the SG, my immediate goal was to focus on making our Executive and the National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings more efficient and effective. To achieve this, we had

BCA-USA MIRROR

to begin our meetings on time and finish within the allotted time i.e. One hour thirty minutes and two hours maximum for Executive and NEC meetings respectively. We reduced executive meetings from bi-monthly to monthly on the Thursdays before the last Sunday of the month which is when we have NEC meetings. I had to allocate time slot for each agenda item and made sure we adhere to the time. Although we succeeded in keeping our meetings within two hours there were about three occasions that we exceeded the time. We know we do not live in a perfect world, but in all, we made enormous strides. On August 26th and August 29th, 2020, respectively, we successfully transitioned our meetings to Zoom calls. Another unprecedented transition that took place under this current executive.

Your leadership will be missed. To the rest of the members of the executive I appreciate all you did to make my job easier. To all our hardworking chapter presidents and committee chairs who contributed their time, ideas and resources to realize the successes of our administration, thank you for your dedication. We made a difference in our own little ways. Let’s continue to forge forward and build a stronger association. Together everyone achieves more.

Finally, special thanks to the co-chairs of the Convention Planning Committee, Ma Kehmia Tangeh, the Public Relations Officer and the Eastern Chapter president, Ni Augustine Njinjoh, and team for all the work put into planning this year’s convention. Big thanks to the entire Eastern Chapter for being our gracious hosts this year. To our BCA members, thank you for the opportunity to serve as Team work your Secretary General. It has been a very humbling In the words of Henry Ford, ‘Coming together experience. is the beginning, keeping together is progress, and We continue to pray for the repose of the souls working together is success.” As a community, we of all our members who were called to glory in must strive to embody these statements. While the past four years and all the souls of the faithful some members of NEC did not attend a NEC departed. May they continue to rest in peace. meeting in over one year, we succeeded because God Bless BCA-USA Leadership of the commitment and dedication of a few. To our God bless BCA-USA. President, Ni Clarence Ndangam, your dedication and commitment to the values of BCA-USA are inspiring and laudable. It has been my utmost honor to serve as Secretary General under your leadership.

BCA-USA.ORG

13

BCA-USA MIRROR

BOARD STRATEGIC INITIATIVES 2016 – 2022

By Ni Banyuga Pefok

• Mr. Ebeny Amstrong • Chief Levi C. Onwuchuruba (Resigned in 2021 for personal reasons)

BOD Secretary

T

he maiden BCA-USA Board of Directors (BOD) was elected and installed in 2016.

Understandably, this first term saw a concentrated effort to create an organizational structure, along with working documents that would guide the BOD in carrying out its functions. So, the BOD bundled the following into a BOD bylaws document: • Strategic Business Plan • Financial Oversight Guideline • Conflict of Interest Policy • Projects Prioritizing and evaluation Guidelines • Board member commitment statement

In late 2020 the Board together with the Executives and National Executive Committee (NEC) took a strategic initiative to update the bylaws to align with the BCA-USA Constitution that was adopted in 2015. So, a Constitution and Ni Banyuga Pefok Elections committee, led by Ba Gwankudvalla Lima and several • Conflict Resolution NEC, BOD members along with process other interested members, met • Annual meeting cadence regularly from late 2020 through • The Board also recruited mid 2021 to edit and rewrite the and welcomed two non- existing bylaws for eventual review Bali Board members in and approval by the NEC and BOD. 2020: Other Board members worked

Members of the Board of Directors 2016 - 2022

14

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR with the rest of the Standing Committees to create committee Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) where none existed and update existing ones for committees that already had one. The NEC and BOD subsequently approved the Bylaws, pending editing of the SOPs (Appendices) by the CEC for final approval and public release.

To ensure the long-term financial viability of the association, the BOD decided to conduct an external audit of the Association’s financial records. The intent of the audit is to ensure that proper accounting processes and procedures are followed in our financial recordkeeping. Texas-based Schnaufer and Walker P.C., an accounting firm specialized in non-profit auditing, has been contracted to conduct the audit.

Other key issues, challenges, and strategic initiatives within the purview of the BOD included: The Youth Wing – The BCA-USA youth wing is key to the future viability of the Association. Therefore, making a determined and concerted effort to understand, engage and integrate the youth at all levels of the Association is a major strategic undertaking by the Board. The recently held Youth conference in Dallas, TX is a direct result of this initiative.

The current crisis in Bali is taking a toll on our membership and having a deleterious effect on families in Bali, especially the children. What strategic initiatives can BCA-USA undertake to alleviate the pain and suffering, as well as, satisfy and address the concerns of our membership? One of the board’s initiatives is a scheduled discussion on this subject which shall take place on Friday during the 2022 convention. As the crisis in Bali persists, what activities, events and projects can the Association undertake that would be most beneficial to the population? The BOD wholly supports the Bore Hole and Ambulance projects.

What strategic alliances can the Association make that would foster its ideals? The Memorandum of Understanding signed with Ŋkù’mɨ̀ Fɛd Fɛd is a direct result of this strategy.

In this internet age and, especially, in the aftermath of the global pandemic, how can activities of the association be carried out seamlessly and effectively with members participating in-person or virtually?

Ma Dr. Marie Fongwa, Chair of the Board of Directors 2019 - 2022

What strategies can be developed to maximize the participation of the BCA-USA membership, strengthen chapter engagement, and simplify all administrative levels in the Association?

As you can see, the BOD has had a very busy term in office, and we are confident that the next Board shall build on this foundation to ensure the long-term viability and growth of this august association.

Ni Banyuga Pefok BOD Secretary

Board of Directors for the term 2016 – 2021 (Extended to 2022 due to Covid – 19 Pandemic) Ebeny Amstrong (2020) Eric Fogam Wob Fomunung Marie Fongwa - Chair Teresa Gwanfogbe Clarence Ndangam (non-voting member) Banyuga Pefok – Secretary Ndamukong Tangeh (2017) Moses Titamohkumi

BCA-USA.ORG

15

BCA-USA MIRROR

Board of Directors May 11, 2022 In the matter brought before the Board of Directors regarding floor nominations during the General Assembly, the Board resolves as follows:       

Recognizing that this is a Bylaws issue and not a Constitutional issue, which can only be amended by the General Assembly Referencing Article VII, Sections B & C gives the NEC and BOD the authority to prepare and amend the Bylaws Mindful of the fact that certain portions of the Bylaws called for floor nominations during the convention.

Mindful of the fact that the Board has a fiduciary responsibility to ensure the long term viability of the Association (IRS 501-C-3 status and Texas Business Org Code) Recognizing that the CEC provided more than ample time, with extensions for interested applicants for elected office to submit their applications Recognizing the incongruity of setting application deadlines, vetting and publishing the list of candidates, then asking for floor nominations.

Recognizing that floor nomination have been called very sparingly in the last decade and only for open positions, and that the previous Bylaws clearly state that nominations shall be from a list provided by the CEC.

Upon reviewing the latest Bylaws that have yet to be edited for final approval and public release, the Board of Directors has determined that the intent of floor nomination process during the General Assembly is only for open positions that the CEC did not receive timely applications for prior to vetting.

Sincerely, Banyuga Pefok Secretary

16

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

REPORT FROM THE CEC COMMITTEE Ba Gwankudvalla, Nubea Lima CEC Chairperson

T

he upcoming convention in May 2022 will be the first in-person meeting of the general assembly since 2019 and it will be highlighted by BCA-USA general elections. The Constitution and Electoral Committee (CEC) of BCA-USA is the committee responsible to conduct the elections.

The CEC also serves as a reference and consultant for constitutional inquiries. The committee will periodically solicit input from the membership, review them and propose amendments to the constitution and Bylaws as required.

The CEC developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) document that details the work of the committee and provides a cadence of CEC meetings. The first pass document was accepted by the Board of Directors (BOD) and the National Executive Committee (NEC). The plan is for the document to be returned to the CEC and others as required for cleanup and editing/ clarification of any conflicts based on feedback received.

To prepare transparent and fair elections that comply with the constitution of BCA-USA, the CEC must undertake much legwork in advance of May 2022. The following are some of the activities that the CEC has been engaged in: • The CEC identified the positions to be contested and sent out a call for nominations that included a deadline for receipt of nominations.

The CEC extended the deadline to allow ample time for people to respond.

• The CEC determined the minimum qualifications required for each position in accordance with the constitution and evaluated the information submitted by the candidates.

The CEC evaluated all responses received

by April 19, 2022, when the spreadsheet of candidates was compiled.

• The CEC notified the candidates of their eligibility status to stand for elections after completing the vetting process. The CEC will publish a complete list of eligible candidates

for all contested positions along with a brief bio of each candidate based on the information received, prior to the elections date.

• The CEC’s intent of vetting candidates in advance of the convention, as corroborated by the BCA-USA’s NEC is to limit floor nominations at the convention to only positions that do not have a vetted candidate (i.e., vacant positions). The CEC will have to vet these limited cases at the convention. The vetting process is an important step that requires diligent work to gather information such as membership records, convention attendance records, leadership Summit attendance records, and BCA-USA committee and local chapter service records.

• The CEC wants to encourage candidates to carefully contemplate the decision to stand for BCA-USA elected positions rather than making impulsive decisions on the convention floor about such important matters. The Association has grown beyond a small family reunion when that may have been acceptable. In the same vein, the CEC will require self-nominations by candidates for “vacant” positions, instead of having people nominate others and possibly coercing people into positions when they may not be ready to hold office.

• The CEC seeks to streamline the voting process by preparing a single ballot sheet with names of the candidates for all contested positions.

Electors will make their choices and turn in the single ballot sheet in the same way as is done in the US presidential elections. Prior to elections, candidates for the same position will be required to answer the same question in an alternating manner. The CEC will carefully explain and clarify the voting procedure as required prior to handing out the ballots.

The CEC looks forward to conducting free and fair elections in May 2022. Please note that eligibility to cast votes in the May 2022 elections is BCA-USA membership for the last two consecutive years.

BCA-USA.ORG

17

BCA-USA MIRROR Dear Members, List of Vetted Candidates Pursuant to the BOD’s published decision on the question of floor nominations at the convention, the CEC hereby presents the following list of candidates that have been vetted to run for office in the May 2022 elections (See the list attached).

The vetting of these candidates was completed on April 25, 2022, and the candidates were notified on April 26, 2022, accordingly. The list was scheduled to be presented to the general membership last week, but this was delayed due to the comments/ questions that arose last week. As noted by the President, this issue was elevated to the BOD and the BOD rendered a decision in alignment with the previous decision by the NEC. The list shows three positions with no vetted candidates. Per the BOD decision, floor nominations are to be taken only for these “vacant” positions and those candidates are to be vetted by the CEC on the spot.

The positions are Comptroller, Publicity Secretary, and the Auditor No. 3 position.

Criteria for Vetting Candidates This issue was discussed in the previous communique from the CEC. The criteria for vetting the various positions come directly from the BCA-USA Constitution. They are specific and quantifiable. The vetting process is therefore not subjective.

For example, the requirements for President and Vice President are: 1. Must have served in the NEC and been a member in good standing for at least five

18

MEET THE CANDIDATES VETTED TO RUN FOR BCA-USA OFFICE IN MAY 2022 Position Board of Directors (BOD) 1

Name Kaba, Nubia

Biography Chair of the BCA-USA Health Committee since 2012 Member of the Constitution and Elections Committee since 2012 Member of other BCA-USA committees

2

Fokumlah, Christopher Member of BCA-USA since 1990 Chair of two BCA-USA conventions; main contact for the 1990, 2004, Pega 2012 and 2019 conventions in MN. Member of FRC

3

Lima, Nubea

Member of BCA-USA since 1990 Chair of five different BCA-USA committees Member of committees to develop the original Bylaws of BCA-USA, update the Constitution (2004) and the Bylaws (2022) President of the BCA-USA Atlanta (Southeastern Chapter) for 8 years Chair of Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE-IAS), Atlanta Chapter

4

Tita, Moses

Current member of the Board of Directors BCA-USA President 2004-2008 BCA-USA Vice President 2000-2004 Chair of three different BCA-USA committees

5

Fogam, Eric

Currently a member of the BCA-USA Board of Directors Former Chair of the BOD

6

Vanyounga, Winifred

Former Vice President of BCA-USA Former President of the Southeastern Chapter, Former Chair of multiple committees, including the Projects Committee

7

Titajani, Divine

Member of BCA-USA for the past 22 years Member of Cultural Committee Member and other BCA-USA Committees President of Advocate Homecare Inc. and Board Member of Prince Jani LLC

National Executive Office (NEO) President Fomukong, Joe

Currently BCA-USA Vice President Former BCA-USA Secretary 2016-2018 Auditor 2014-2016; President, BCA-USA Southern Texas Chapter 2010-2016 Member of multiple committees.

Vice President

Ngafor, Valeria Nahjella BCA-USA member since 2003 Currently BCA-USA Secretary General (Since 2018) Awah Served at all Leadership levels in the BCA-USA Southern Texas Chapter, including President (2015-2018) Served in multiple BCA-USA committees

Secretary General

Gwaabe, Godlove

Vice President - OK Chapter Vice Chair - BCA-USA Cultural Committee BCA-USA Projects Committee Chair

Treasurer

Takam, Victorine L.

Current BCA-USA Treasurer

Fossung-Price, Dilys

Treasurer of BCA-USA Eastern Chapter

1

Fokwang, Lilian N.

Chair of two BCA-USA committees Member of three other BCA-USA committees Local Chapter Coordinating Secretary

2

Pefok, Banyuga

Member of the Board of Directors 2016-present BCA-USA Treasurer 2008-2012 BCA-USA Comptroller 2004-2008 Chaired several BCA-USA committees

Comptroller Publicity Secretary Protocal Officer Office of Auditors

3

years prior to the election year.

2. Must have attended the three National Conventions prior to the election year and three out of five Leadership Summits prior to the election

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

year.

Complete List of Applications Received Considering that skepticism was expressed by certain members about the dates that some of the

BCA-USA MIRROR Applications Received by the CEC for Vetting of Candidates for BCA-USA Elections, May 2022

Email Address Fomukong@hotmail.com Lndangam@hotmail.com Nikevic29@gmail.com Nubiakaba@netscape.net Cfokumlah@hotmail.com Bpefok@yahoo.com Kahbert71@gmail.com N_lima2003@yahoo.com mntita@yahoo.com Gwaabegodlove@gmail.com Cmoore1102@hotmail.com Madamdibrahim6@gmail.com Ericfogam@aol.com Wvanyounga@gmail.com Batitajani@yahoo.com Mkayeba@gmail.com Springoflifehealth@gmail.com Charlydoh2005@yahoo.com Colinsdoh@gmail.com I.Fokum@yahoo.com Yotahba@yahoo.com

Name of Candidate Joe Fomukong Lilian N. Fokwang Victorine Takam Nubia Kaba Chris Fokumlah Banyuga Pefok Valeria N. Awah Ngafor Nubea Lima Moses Tita Godlove Gwaabe Cindi Moore Dilys Fossung-Price Eric Fogam Winifred Nukuna Titajani Michael Njambed Justine Njafuh Charly Doh Colins Doh Isidore G. Fokum Yotah Koulagna

Date Received 23-Mar-22 25-Mar-22 28-Mar-22 28-Mar-22 28-Mar-22 28-Mar-22 29-Mar-22 29-Mar-22 30-Mar-22 7-Apr-22 11-Apr-22 12-Apr-22 18-Apr-22 18-Apr-22 19-Apr-22 20-Apr-22 23-Apr-22 24-Apr-22 26-Apr-22 29-Apr-22 4-May-22

late applications were received, the CEC is publishing the entire list of applications showing the date the emails were received. This raw data includes the late applications not reviewed by the CEC. This spreadsheet is being published for full transparency.

Conflict of Interest The CEC has described how it managed any possible conflicts of interest within the committee in the vetting process. The CEC further states that in May during the elections, any CEC member who is running for office will be required to recuse himself from conducting the elections. It should be noted that this is not the first time that BCA-USA committees have had to come up with strategies to manage possible conflicts of interest.

Many previous Award Committees, for example have included candidates who were nominated for an award.

They were not automatically and entirely kicked out of the committee. They recused themselves when their case was being discussed and voted upon.

It should also be noted that the CEC is not the body that elects the candidates. The CEC vets the candidates per specific quantifiable criteria from the Constitution.

Ultimately, the candidates are voted at the General Assembly meeting.

If in the vetting process a candidate’s application is rejected unduly, the candidate can provide evidence to

Position Desired President Auditor Treasurer BOD BOD Auditor Vice President BOD BOD Secretary General Publicity Secretary Chief Whip BOD BOD BOD Vice President BOD Auditor President Comptroller Publicity Secretary

Disposition of CEC Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Denied Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Reviewed and Approved Not Reviewed Not Reviewed Not Reviewed Not Reviewed Not Reviewed Not Reviewed

the CEC of any missed information and the CEC will review it.

Case of an Application Allegedly Submitted in March It came to the CEC’s attention this morning that a member alleges to have applied on March 23, 2022, for position of Secretary General. The CEC has checked the in-box thoroughly and have not found the alleged email from this member. It should also be noted that the CEC never received an inquiry from this member about his alleged application. However, the CEC will contact the member directly to further investigate the matter.

We will not delay the release of the list at this time.

If it turns out after the investigation that the claim is legitimate, the candidate will be vetted accordingly.

Please note that it is not until April 7, 2022, that the CEC received the first application for the position of Secretary General.

Sincerely, Ba Gwankudvalla, Nubea Lima CEC Chair

BCA-USA.ORG

19

BCA-USA MIRROR

NIGHT OF GLAMOUR, 2019

20

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA.ORG

21

BCA-USA MIRROR

CULTURAL NIGHT 2019

22

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA.ORG

23

BCA-USA MIRROR

24

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

The BCA-USA Ŋkab Ntɔd Program SUMMARY OF PAYMENTS 2017-2022

By Ba Fomukong

BCA-USA Vice President and Chair of Ŋkab Ntɔd Adhoc Committee

O

1. Members change phone numbers and do not update their chapter president.

2. Members move and do not update their new chapter, and we have to reach them especially during an occurrence 3. Members travel during the collection or enrollment window and cannot be reached 4. Members send CashApp to chapter presidents at midnight on the due date and expect an updated list in the next minute whereas CashApp takes two days to clear.

n behalf of the Ŋkab Ntɔd Adhoc Committee, we thank you to all members of BCA-USA who are enrolled in the Ŋkab Ntɔd program. Special thanks to all BCA chapter presidents for assisting with the annual enrollment drive and making the process seamless. Ŋkab Ntɔd is a BCA-USA owned program initiated in 2016 for BCA-USA members only implemented through BCA-USA chapters.

As the program grows, validation of membership and collection is becoming more challenging. These challenges We urge all members and include but are not limited to: future members to collaborate

Name

Chapter

Ba Fomukong

with their chapter president to facilitate enrollment in the program. Let’s work together to maintain and grow the program. Ŋkab Ntɔd program is working.

It’s ours to keep. Thank you for participating and growing the program. There are currently 929 Ŋkab Ntɔd participants in the period 2021-2022.

Below is a summary of payments made to family beneficiaries in the last eight years of the Ŋkab Ntɔd program.

Collection End Date

Amount

Ma Agnes Ndangoh

MidWest - Denver

9-Jan-17

$15,000.00

Ni Victor Nchamukong

Northern - Minnesota

11-Apr-17

$15,000.00

Ba Gabriel Tita Todmia

Southern California - LA

16-Jun-17

$15,000.00

Ba Titus Ntungwen Fomuso

Eastern - DC

12-Aug-17

$15,000.00

Ni Nubia Fokum

Great Lakes

25-Apr-19

$5,000.00

Ma Agnes Fogam

Eastern - DC

7-Oct-19

$15,000.00

Ma Agnes Nkontan Fosam

Northern - Minnesota

20-Dec-19

$15,000.00

Ma Elizabeth Bih Nyama

Northern - Minnesota

19-Apr-20

$15,000.00

Ma Hannah Ndi

Eastern - DC

30-Jan-21

$15,000.00

Ni Henry Sigala Fokam

Eastern - DC

8-Dec-21

$15,000.00

Ma Odilia Mantan Nwana

New England

22-Jan-21

$15,000.00

Ma Lucy Zama

Great Lakes

2-May-22

$15,000.00

Ma Enid Thomas

Great Lakes

2-May-22

$15,000.00

TOTAL

$185,000.00

BCA-USA.ORG

25

BCA-USA MIRROR

SHOWCASING BALI HERITAGE TO THE WORLD Nahsala and Gima Fomukong put up an Exhibition at School.

A

s part of the year end celebration at her school Jolene Nahsala Fomukong of Tomball, Texas gathered items from home to put up a creative exhibition proudly celebrating Bali heritage at Nahsala’s school, Blackshear Elementary in Tomball.

Supported by her older brother Gima Fomukong and dad Joe Fomukong, Nahsala’s exhibition displayed books on Mungaka language, as well as artifacts and musical instruments from Bali. Crowds of visitors stopped by the exhibit to view the items and pose questions to the young curator. Nahsala, who is leaving Blackshear this year to start middle school, said she was inspired to participate in the exhibition because “Not many people know about Cameroon.

So I wanted to share a bit of our culture to other people” Nahsala and Gima have been enrolled in the Mungaka 101 class since 2020 where they along with

26

Nahsala Fomukong

other young learners and nonnative speakers are learning basic spoken and written Mungaka.

Blackshear Elementary’s annual Cultural Heritage Night is a well known community event highlighting and celebrating the school’s diverse communities.

The yearly event attracts parents and community members to the school which is well known for its diverse student body.

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

MIRROR PERSON OF THE YEAR: NI CLARENCE NDANGAM Six years at the helm: The outgoing president reflects on his time in office You were first elected National President in 2016. Prior to that you served as Secretary General for 4 years. Looking back at your journey, how did you become involved in BCA-USA? And why did you seek its presidency?

I first became involved in BCAUSA in the late 90’s when I was a student in Germany, and we were working to start-up BCA Germany. Back then, I reached Ni Clarence Ndangam out to the BCA-USA President at the time, Ni Ben Fokum, who Secretary General in 2012 and in over the next four years I got to work with various Chapters provided us with great insights 2016 National President. and learnings.

I got involved purely by and a wide range of amazing the quest to serve as well as individuals, from whom I learned However, shortly after to support my older brother, a lot. I also engaged several relocating to the USA in the fall Ni Julius Ndangam, who was individuals who were nonof 2008 there was a Leadership the National President from members and attended various Summit in Boston which I 2008-2012. At the time I had no “Ndâkùms”, which were not was invited to attend by Ba ambitions beyond helping make a “Pro BCA-USA’’ at the time. In Titamohkumi. I attended the difference in the organization by 2014 was unanimously reelected Leadership Summit and was very enhancing committee efficiencies as Secretary General. I also spent impressed with the quality of the based on my background in a the next two years working in conversation and the deliberation. senior leadership position in the Fundraising Committee, I wrote a one page summary, a multinational organization. under the Chair at the time, which I shared as feedback at the Growing up - both my parents Ma Nyem Ndangam Fokwang, end of the meeting. This led the and grandparents had instilled during which we raised record Chair of the Process Improvement in us the value of serving and amounts of money for the Bali Committee (PIC) at the time Ma making a difference in the lives of Multipurpose Center (MPC) Marie Nangah to recruit me to others. As I worked in BCA-USA Project through the innovative PIC and help improve some of the committees, I became increasingly use of the 5K Walk. In my four organization’s processes. I went convinced that I could make a years as Secretary General, I got on to serve in various committees difference in our community here to build productive relationships, especially with individuals who over the following years (PIC, and community back home.

In 2012 - I was unanimously felt dissatisfied with BCA-USA. M e m b e r s h i p C o m m i tt e e , Whilst visiting Bali in Fundraising) until I became elected Secretary General and BCA-USA.ORG

27

BCA-USA MIRROR December 2014, we spent time visiting the MPC and the following year again in December 2015. I learnt much about the project and set a goal of completing it in 2-3years to enable us to have “Diaspora Day” at MPC. In 2016, I was convinced I could lead BCA-USA to at least double its membership and double the impact that BCA was making in our community in Bali. In 2016, I was unanimously elected National President and embarked on an improbable journey that has culminated with 6 years at the helm - leading BCA-USA; during what is inarguably the most challenging and extenuating times of our generation: the sociopolitical crisis in Bali and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking of extenuating circumstances, your term of office was supposed to end in 2020. But due to the pandemic, it got extended for a year and then another year.

How did you handle that?

In early 2020 we were all preparing for the convention and none of us saw the pandemic coming. Suddenly, the pandemic hit and before we knew it, Covid19 had changed life as we knew it.

Then we had all these shutdowns across states and the suspension of large gatherings for indoor events. We ended up canceling the in-person convention that year, as we had to comply with Virginia State laws and minimize the risk of Covid spreading to our members. We had one challenge: how to handle elections. 2020 was supposed to be an election 28

year and our constitution did not have any provisions for a “force majeure”. We (National Executive Committee and Board of Directors) ended up invoking Article 8 of our constitution and referring the situation to the Constitution Interpretation Committee (CIC).

The CIC concluded that if we cannot meet in person, then the mandates of all elected officials of the organization will be extended.

The CIC also tasked the BCAUSA leadership to put in place modalities to run the organization during “force majeure”.

Following the decision of the CIC, my administration carried on for another year - during which we tasked the Constitution and Elections Committee (CEC) to develop a framework for virtual elections and write our bylaws.

In the end, we were able to leverage modern technologies and ran the organization “virtually” over the last two years, during which time we grew

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

record membership. We held two virtual conventions, hosted a virtual Halloween party for kids which was fun as well as held kids virtual Christmas celebration.

Also, several Chapters quickly evolved to using Zoom and were able to meet regularly and that soon presented an opportunity for me to visit and engage with Chapters virtually. So, while the pandemic was a setback in many ways, it also provided an opportunity for us to innovate.

Can you briefly highlight some of the accomplishments during your term of office that you are proud of?

Membership growth is undoubtedly the biggest one!

When I was elected, I set out to double membership and we’ve more than tripled that (from 365 to over 1,000 paid members). We have also more than quadrupled Ŋkab Ŋtɔd enrollment from 200+ to over 900. I’m also super proud of the work we’ve done to write

BCA-USA MIRROR

and implement our by-laws, to accompany our constitution that was adopted in 2015.

In the US, we also launched a scholarship program for our high school youth, which we now do every year. We renewed the youth group - by creating an Instagram page, which has now grown to over 100+ followers, culminating in their First Renewal Event hosted in Dallas over Easter holidays. The event was a huge success. I’m especially proud of the work we did on renewing several chapters that were dormant and/or had a huge Bali population who were non-members. These include Northern Texas, Southern Texas, Great Lakes, New England respectively, all of which are now thriving with record members.

In Europe - we strengthened partnerships with our various BCA Europe organizations, culminating in attending both their 2016 and 2018 conventions, with a record delegation of over 50 from the US in 2018 in Berlin.

In Cameroon - we supported the Mungaka Bible Translation program, provided humanitarian relief to support people affected by the crisis in Bali, renovated a section of the hospital in Bali, provided masks and PPE during the peak of the pandemic.

We raised record amounts to complete the MPC Project but halted all work on the project following the evolution of the situation in Bali. My most proud accomplishment in Bali is the borehole project. Within a year, we were able to provide a historic five wells in Nchǔsam, Mùnùŋ, Nchǐnjɔ’, Mɔ̀m and Wosɨ ̀ŋ. These are making a huge difference in our community.

They say uneasy lies the head that wears the crown! What are some of the challenges you faced as a leader during the past 6 years and how did you address these?

Every leader undoubtedly faces challenges (be it internal and/or external) and that is

very true for BCA-USA. So, I knew and expected there will be challenges. What I did not expect was that the external challenges would rise to the levels we had never experienced in our generation - the Pandemic and the unfortunate socio-political crisis in Bali. Internally - I was the first President to work with a newly created Board of Directors.

None of my predecessors ever faced one of these challenges let alone three!

Three things played a key part in how I led the organization given the challenges.

1. Support Structure: I’m super blessed to have a great family and close circle friends, who were there for me 24/7. From advice, to assisting with critical tasks, to having my back and lifting me up.

2. Personal belief: I believe in doing what is right, bringing people to find solutions and above all a stubbornness to not give up - especially for BCA-USA.ORG

29

BCA-USA MIRROR

a cause I believe in.

3. Experience: I work in corporate America, as a Junior Executive (Senior Director) with over 20+ years’ experience, spanning 6 locations, 4 countries and 3 continents. I have managed several crises before, from the UK, to Nigeria and the USA. So, I’ve learnt to stay calm and focused even during times of crisis.

even during adversities and the pandemic forced us to rethink creative ways to connect. We moved all our NEC meetings to Zoom calls and I also offered this opportunity to our Chapter Presidents and Committee Chairs.

Some embraced it and some didn’t. Those who embraced it had a great last 2 years and connected regularly, whilst others remained dormant and barely did anything. Overall, I was able to connect virtually with several You have also used the pandemic chapters and saved on flight to do outreach to chapters through and hotel costs. Going forward virtual meetings. What has that been - I expect we will continue to do like? both: i.e., have a hybrid solution to meet in person and sometimes It has indeed been a humbling virtually. experience leveraging technology to stay connected with our What has your time as president Chapters. Over the years, I’ve meant to you and your family and learned to look for opportunities what will you miss most?

30

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

I’ve been super blessed to have fantastic support from my family for the last 6 years as president and the previous 4 years as Secretary General.

From my immediate family to my extended family, everybody has been there for me and super supportive. I simply can’t thank each of them enough.

On the other hand, I must admit that doing this role for six years has taken a toll on my family, especially time away on numerous conference calls and/or travels. One of the most painful moments was missing my daughters dance recital whilst stuck on a lengthy BOD call (while sitting in her High School Cafeteria). It had an incredible emotional impact and just something which no amount of money can ever buy back.

BCA-USA MIRROR

I will miss working alongside some of the great Individuals I’ve come to know and respect.

These are people who serve with no secondary motives and who want to make a difference in our community - here and/or back home. I will not miss those “unproductive” calls which sometimes happened several days a week. I will not miss working with some individuals who made differences of opinions personal and/or could not separate personal differences from the work needed to move the association and our community forward.

What did you enjoy and not enjoy about your time as president?

I enjoyed making a difference in our organization. I enjoyed making a difference in our community back home and here.

I enjoyed working with some of the most amazing individuals I’ve come to know in my life, especially some talented and committed individuals at various leadership teams and committees

With past presidents of BCA-USA at the BCA Europe Convention, Berlin, 2018

that I worked with. I greatly enjoyed visiting and engaging with chapters (in-person or virtually) and had some great productive conversations.

I think there is just one thing that I never enjoyed - and that is the “politics” in BCA USA. As we grow in membership so does the diversity, especially in thoughts (which is a great) but unfortunately, so does the “politics” and the backstabbing.

I am of the view that we can disagree all day long - but a line is crossed when this becomes about the person and results in personal attacks, and intentional spreading of lies behind someone’s back to achieve personal objective and/ or the believe that some members are “more than others” and we should have two set of rules and these should be applied depending on your “last name”.

Any Individuals that you like to acknowledge as you look back?

First and foremost I’d like to really thank my family, especially my wife, Na First Lady, Ma Helen Ndangam, who has been by my side through this journey through thick and thin. My kids for the enormous sacrifice that they made, by letting me spend time on calls. I’m super thankful to my siblings (especially Ni Ju and Ma Nyem), my parents, close family, and friends (can’t list all the names here) who have been there for me 24/7. I’m also very thankful to those on the Executives, NEC and BOD, who supported me. I got to know some of you very close and some of the friendships established will no doubt last a lifetime.

BCA-USA.ORG

31

BCA-USA MIRROR

NETWORK OF BALI YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

B

ali Young Professionals is a network created by BCA youths to serve as a networking platform for Bali youth who are in their junior/ senior year of college going into the workforce as well as Bali youth currently in the workforce. The idea is to portray various professions and serve as a network for Bali youth who are deciding on their upcoming career paths. It can also be used for people who would like to go into other areas of a profession they may already be a part of.

Our first event was April 15-18 where we gathered in Dallas, Texas to introduce the new network. We began with a welcome on the first day which consisted of a speed dating/ get to know me with all the guests. The following day was the main event which consisted of a panel filled with speakers from a diverse range of professions.

Careers of speakers ranged from cyber security to real estate to music, photography and selfemployed. Speakers introduced their professions and the process it took to get them there. Then the floor was open for questions. There was a flood of questions throughout the panel from the audience and the event remained engaging the entire time.

That evening we proceeded to the same hall for the gala where everyone ate, let loose and had a great time. Sunday was filled with goodbyes and feedback from the group about what they hope to see from us as well as suggestions of how we as an organization can help boost the Bali community.

We hope this organization continues to grow

32

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

and reach more Bali youths around the U.S and become an organization which does its part to give back to the community in Bali. As we grow, we hope to pour into ourselves and do more to grow our network. Our sincere thanks and gratitude to BCA-USA and to donors whose generous donations went a long way towards making the networking weekend successful.

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA.ORG

33

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA PROJECTS IN BALI DURING THE PANDEMIC

D

espite the restrictions brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, BCA-USA embarked on initiatives to support the social welfare of people in Bali. Two of these initiatives involved healthcare and access to potable water.

To assist healthcare facilities in Bali, BCA-USA provided funding to the Bali District Hospital which enabled the hospital to convert one of its wards into an isolation ward to accommodate Covid19 patients. BCA-USA's funding overseen by the Health Committee, also supported the purchase of masks and training of health workers to undertake Covid-19 sensitization within Bali. The project went

34

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

a long way toward supporting the hospital’s Covid19 readiness efforts as well as raising awareness in the community.

In 2021, following approval from the National Executive Committee and subsequently, the Board of Directors, BCA-USA sponsored the construction of five boreholes in Bali. Under the stewardship of the BCA-USA Projects Committee all five boreholes were completed by March 2022. Profound thanks to the Health Committee chaired by Ni Nubia Kaba and the Projects Committee chaired by Ni Goddy Gwaabe for steering these projects to completion.

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA.ORG

35

BCA-USA MIRROR

MEET SOME BCA-USA COVID-19 FRONTLINE HEROES

D

espite the challenges and health risks, millions of frontline workers across the USA continued to do their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

From picking up trash, packaging groceries to cleaning hospitals, caring for the vulnerable, to providing life-saving medicine, these hard working heroes placed themselves at great risk in order to

Ma Agie Kaspa Nurse Great Lakes Chapter

Ma Dr. Anna Sikod Medical Doctor South Eastern Chapter

take care of others. Below, we celebrate the courage, dedication, grit and selflessness of some BCA-USA frontline workers in healthcare. Together they represent millions of frontline workers who stayed at the frontlines ensuring that others remained comfortable, safe and healthy during the pandemic.

Ma Beatrice Tangeh Registered Nurse Southern Texas Chapter

Ni Dr. Bobga Fomunung Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Great Lakes

Ma Comfort Sema Nurse Eastern Chapter

Ma Emma Foncham Nurse Carolinas Chapter

Ma Dr. Florence N. ForsacPefok Nephrologist Great Lakes Chapter

Ma Helen Ndangam Nurse Eastern Chapter

Ma Janet Frazier Nurse Eastern Chapter

Ni Jimi Adeseola Nurse Midwest Denver

Ma Kah Fomukong Pediatric Nurse Southern Texas Chapter

Ma Anna Kah Fomuso Physical Therapist Northern Texas Chapter

Ma Kalang Fondong Nurse Assistant Chapter President, Southern California Chapter

Ma Kehmia Tangeh Pharmacist Southern Texas Chapter BCA-USA National PRO

Ni Dr. Lang Nukuna Medical Doctor Eastern Chapter

36

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

Ni Muted Fofung Pharmacist Eastern Chapter

Ma Nancy Ndamukong Registered Nurse South Eastern Chapter

Ma Patience Fofung Pharmacist Eastern Chapter

Ma Patricia Kaba (PK) Registered Dietitian Northern California

Ma Jennee Stella Tekwe Nurse Eastern Chapter

Ma Lekunga Titalanga Nurse Southern Texas Chapter

Ni Michael Popoko Emergency Medicine Physician Assistant Eastern Chapter

Ma Cynthia Fogam Nurse Eastern Chapter

Ni Dr. Sema Fofung Gynecologist Great Lakes chapter

Ma Dr. Judith Fokum Medial Doctor Chapter President, New England Chapter

Ma Ley Fossem Geriatric Nurse Oklahoma Chapter

Ma Mado Ndangam Physician Assistant Midwest Chapter

Ma Marie Fokwang Telemetry Technician Southern Texas Chapter

Ma Diane Gwananji Pediatric Nurse Southern Texas Chapter

Ma Edith Doh Nurse Midwest Chapter

Ma Mbuomda Namondo Nasah Lima Anesthetist Physician Assistant Vice President, South Eastern Chapter

Ma Stella Luma Nurse Midwest Chapter

Ni Derrick Fossem Nurse Oklahoma Chapter

Ma Elveline Eyong Nurse Oklahoma Chapter

BCA-USA.ORG

37

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA Members’ Reflections on the Pandemic and Resilience

I

t’s Monday morning. I pull into the South Parking Lot. I welcome the warmth of the sun’s rays and the blue cloudless skies.

The snow-capped mountains and the distinct outline of the mountains against the horizon is simply spellbinding. The fragrance-filled air of Cherry Blossoms in bloom signifies Spring. A bevy of birds fly in v-Formation across the sky. I walk deliberately and purposefully through the double doors into the Lobby which was once teaming with life and activity. There’s no one in sight. I take the elevator to my office on the fourth floor. I say hello to the administrative staff, and walk past rows and rows of empty cubicles to my desk. I am one of a few people that opted out of telework after receiving a complete dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. I am grateful to God. I am focused, present, and engaged. I show up with the best version of my authentic self.

A few days after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19, a global pandemic, we received a communiqué to vacate the building immediately for telework. I was frantic, frightened, and anxious. I was totally unprepared and unequipped for telework. As the days progressed, conflicting messages from all levels of management, did little to allay my fears and anxiety. Restaurants, churches, schools, and most businesses were closed. Yellow caution tape restricting access,

38

Vice Chair of Publications Committee  alking about the pandemic, family is my primary driving force that helped me survive the pandemic. Also relocating to a new state, where I knew literally no one helped some. Especially since I could not socialize again in the heat of the pandemic.

It was very scary and every day I dreaded going to work, since we had to wear all these personal protective equipment.

It was such a scary time that I became a semi “native doctor”, cooking concoctions made of lemons, pineapple, lemongrass (fever grass), garlic, aloe vera sometimes and or honey. The biggest thing that got me going was the decision to go back to school. I said to myself, it is better to do something so that when the world will reopen, I will advance or progress. Oh boy did I do that? It is left to be seen in my results. I formed stronger bonds with my friends, coworkers, and family. My circle of influence shifted, and we found strength in people we never thought we could. Work became my second nature. Although many people who do not know me would have misconstrued that I was out for the money, deep down in me, there was fear. The fear of the unknown, fear of not knowing what’s next or who will be the next person or colleague to be diagnosed with COVID-19.

T

enclosed playgrounds in public parks. Streets were deserted.

The world was at a standstill in a blink of an eye, with the hopes, dreams, aspirations, and goals of all hanging in the balance.

I made it only by the Grace of the Lord. Thanks to family, the essential workers and first responders; YouTube videos and Zoom Retreat sessions with the Divine Mercy Retreat Center, New Jersey; YouTube videos of the Potter’s House/Bishop T. D. Jakes; Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music; Hillsong Praise and Worship for feeding my soul and spirit. My sincere thanks and gratitude to Ma Nyem Fokwang, Ni Jude Fokwang, and Ni Goddy Gwaabe for keeping the Bali Culture front and center during those tumultuous times.

Telework and Zoom Meetings are the wave of the future. The world will never be the same again, but the resilience of the human spirit will live on.

By Ma Irene Andin Tita BCA Midwest Chapter

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR The fear was not so much to be diagnosed, but it was also the fear of the outcome of having COVID19 when there was no medication or treatment. In those initial days, when I heard announcements from the intercom system in the hospital where I work “Code Blue or rapid response” in the acute care unit, I expected the worst.

The story goes round and round.

The same applies to many here.

Even with the vaccine and booster shots, I am still looking out, afraid of what is obvious, COVID-19 and death. It took time before I came to realize that wearing a mask is the new norm. I can remember how in the hospitals or healthcare facilities; we couldn’t venture out of a patient’s room with a mask or other PPE. Now, not wearing a mask is frowned upon. There’s a lot to learn as far as surviving COVID-19 is concerned. Overall, I thank God I did not get infected.

I think it was not because I am special just by the mercy of God for, we never knew and do not still know who has it or not, what is next, or who is next?

Thank you very much for this opportunity to express myself.

My one and only advice to all is that we should treat everyone as infected until proven otherwise, we should wear our masks, maintain social distances, wash our hands always and take our vaccinations. We must remember that wearing our masks or taking vaccines does not mean we cannot or will not be infected by the COVID-19 virus. It only means that if we get the infection, we will not be as ill as those who do not have the vaccines. It means

we have been inoculated and our bodies now have antibodies of COVID-19 which if infected will recognize and fight against the disease better than before. In my own laywoman way, that is my explanation. Get vaccinated!

Ma Ste Special, Northern Texas Chapter.  e all survived COVID-19 thanks to God and the use of PPE. It was not possible to practice social distancing as health care workers. But we used masks, face shields, gowns, and gloves. The kids initially studied at home but later went back to class with masks. Parents avoided going out of the home. Worship was via zoom for 2 years. But it was by the Grace of God that we survived.

The Kuja family Lydia, Martin, Adolf, Mercy, Divine, Carvelle, Kenna, & Lydia Tatang.

Northern Texas Chapter

W

 hat helped me survive the pandemic? I was taking black seed oil. The confidence I had in this black seed oil is that it tastes like palm kernel oil black oil popularly known as “Menyanga oil’’ which our mothers used to give us when we were kids.

It cures so many ailments in our system during that tender age. And when you look at the meaning of Black Seed oil in Google, it says it cures all sickness in our system except death. I spread the message to our Bali Community and well-wishers and

W

some of our nurses who caught the Coronavirus. I advised them to take Black seed oil and they were healed from the sickness.

After quarantining, they resumed their duties. I also took a daily dose of Vitamin C 1,000 mg to support my immune system. I also wore masks faithfully. That’s how my soul-mate, Ma JenneeStella Tekwe, popularly known as “(Ma Ste Special),” and I survived the pandemic. We give thanks to God almighty for blessing us so abundantly.

Ba Tita Langba Eastern Chapter 

W

hat helped me survive the pandemic was a lot of television and engaging in hobbies such as writing and painting. It helped in keeping my mind stimulated from all the boredom. I also traveled to Mexico which was fun as well.

Ashley Gwananji Northern Texas  uring the pandemic I joined Toastmasters International Effective Communicators club in March 2020. At the time, all I was

D

BCA-USA.ORG

39

BCA-USA MIRROR

thinking about was to keep myself focused on something else during the lockdown. I wanted to work on my speech and presentation skills and to get rid of the famous butterflies!

It’s been a worthwhile 2-year journey! The butterflies are still very much present, but I have learnt to share the living space with them. On the other hand, I met a group of professionals [from different backgrounds and origins] with the same passion of communicating better! This year, I won 1st Place in Area 13 International Speech Contest and 1st Place in 2022 D38 Division A International Speech Contest.

From the spontaneous and on the spot table topics, to the tough evaluations and the different Pathways levels- these have all molded me into the speaker I have longed admired from afar.

Ma Christine Titih North Eastern Chapter  e survived the pandemic by praying Psalm 91 against it, by following CDC and federal government guidelines in permanently wearing our masks whenever we left the house, by washing our hands and sanitizing whenever we returned from

W

40

outside. After vaccines were approved and recommended, we all got vaccinated and got the boosters as well. We remained conscious not to stick our fingers into our nostrils after touching shopping carts or gas pumps and instructed our children to do the same. Last but not least, my husband Ni Joe was consistently making concoctions before, during, and after the pandemic of lemon juice, lemon grass, ginger, garlic, turmeric in hot water and drinking almost daily. I believe all these measures helped keep us safe from the COVID19 pandemic that ravaged the world and decimated lives and economies. One of our children caught it with wife and daughter but it quickly disappeared as they had taken their vaccines except of course the baby who rebounded without much of anything. God truly protects babies! It was a three-day discomfort. This is how my family and l survived the pandemic. God first, then all other practical preventive and

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

recommended measures.

Ma Therese Fomunung Northern Texas Chapter 

The past two and a half years have been unprecedented, challenging, chaotic, stressful, life changing, introspective, unpredictable, exhausting just to name a few. The pandemic came with a roller coaster of anxiety, confusion, uncertainty, fear etc.

I lost very good friends and relatives which made it even more scary for me as I went through a near-death experience myself.

Watching the pandemic dashboard and the news outlets only created more anxiety

BCA-USA MIRROR and paranoia for me. My best coping mechanism was to STOP following the numbers, the news, and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) stats. Once I did that, I could relax and just hoped for the best. I learned to appreciate everyday that I lived above ground because it felt like no one was guaranteed a tomorrow. So how did I get through the pandemic? Hope got me through by finding my inner peace as I left everything in the hands of the almighty.

Ma Marion Sabum Great Lakes Chapter  OVID-19 impacted us in many ways. I was the guinea pig of my family. I went out to run errands, buy groceries and did everything that the family needed. On return, I will spray my shoes and take off my clothes and go straight to the shower for a hot bath. This was the usual routine.

Down the road COVID-19 invaded my brother’s house and he was sick along with two of his children. This was a tough one for me as I had to go out there to get him supplies and drop them in front of his house and we only talked through FaceTime or WhatsApp video calls. This was a very tough time for me.

Thankfully, their recovery was quick. As fate would have it my household was also guested by COVID-19, and the kids also toughed it up. We prayed and quarantined as a family and through God’s healing mercies we bounced back.

C

If I do not express gratitude in two folds as I state how we were resilient with this pandemic, then a feeling of contrition will hover around my mind. As a family head and the leader of a cultural group we have been so blessed.

Some members of our cultural group (Ndântɔd Cultural group Washington Metro Area) caught COVID-19 too and I had to drop off supplies at their homes. It was so difficult to hear people talking inside the house while you were dropping stuff off and cannot even go inside to say hello. We are so grateful to God that the virus did not result in any member’s demise.

As a family we bonded so much with the kids, watching TV and listening to music. All the Bluetooth speakers at home were busy. Our oldest son Bikayi took the biggest one and kept it in his room and used it to play music when he was not attending online classes. Everything went virtual and Dingana and Nahsang will have to be in front of an iPad for classes. To the mother of our four adorable children Ma Cynthia Ketcha Wuvalla even in my next life you will still be the First Lady of my kingdom. I do not have

words that are apt to convey my love and gratitude to you. You have made me a whole and I am the man because of you. You are simply the best At Ndântɔd cultural group quickly adjusted to the pandemic life by hosting all our monthly meetings virtually. We created a COVID-19 Taskforce that gave constant updates about the virus and the necessary precautions we needed to take. I commend the exceptional work done by Dr. Thomas Pefok, Ma Pascaline Moffor and Ma Cynthia Fogam.

Your dedication and sacrifice are unmatched and cannot be compensated. We are so grateful for all the help that you guys gave and are still giving.

I would like to extend my special regard to the outgoing President of BCA USA (Ni Clarence Ndangam) for his strides and stewardship. It is unfortunate that the last phase of his presidency has been defined by his last name. I am hopeful that objective Nyonga pundits will be able to get past these ideological roadblocks in the future.

Gilbert Nyonka Eastern Chapter

BCA-USA.ORG

41

BCA-USA MIRROR

HIGHLIGHTS OF THURSDAY WELCOME NIGHT 2019

42

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REPORT

By Ma Kalang Fondong

President, Southern California Chapter

G

reetings from Southern California! Home of the current Chair of the BCA-USA Board of Directors. BCA Southern California Chapter covers Southern California as well as the states of Arizona and Hawaii. The chapter headquarters is located in Los Angeles. We currently have 16 registered members. We welcomed one new member this year.

The pandemic severely affected our ability to meet in-person. Despite the lifting of restrictions and uptake in vaccinations, we are yet to resume our quarterly in-person meetings. Thanks to modern technology, we have been able to continue paying our dues and make contributions because all our transactions are done electronically. The pandemic

also took a toll on some of our members. I fell ill in November 2021 after being exposed to COVID-19.

The virus severely affected my health and it has taken me months to recover. After leaving hospital, I traveled to Cameroon to recuperate and only returned in April.

We extend a hearty congratulations to chapter member Ma Marie Fongwa who has served honorably as chair of the Board of Directors since 2019 and is stepping down. We are proud of her leadership and tireless service to BCA which has spanned many decades. Well done Ma Marie!

From sunny Southern California, we are excited for this year’s convention and look forward to seeing everyone in Herndon, Virginia.

God Bless BCA-USA.

BCA-USA.ORG

43

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA CAROLINAS Growth and Resilience During the Pandemic

By Ni Colins Doh

President, Carolinas Chapter

T

he Carolinas Chapter is made up of North and South Carolina. Membership continues to grow steadily. We have 15 registered members.

During the pandemic we did not collect local chapter dues from members. We also switched to holding meetings via Zoom. In-person meetings were resumed in the Fall of 2021 and local chapter membership registrations in January 2022. As of April 2022 we have fifteen registered members. We are quite certain this number will continue to grow.

In fact, we are growing not only in numbers but in family sizes too. We’ve had five babies in the last two years and are looking forward to welcoming three more in 2022. Ahem! The Carolinas are fertile ground.

44

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

Fun Activities During the Pandemic

During the pandemic Bali Carolinas continued meeting via zoom. We came up with fun games to play on Zoom like riddles and jokes - Ŋkwalè e?

Lèŋkwa.

Outside of Zoom, we had other fun activities we did as a group. One of these activities was the ‘step challenge’. The idea came about as we sought ways to keep our members fit and active. Using a step counting device like a Fitbit watch or even a phone, we tracked our daily steps and posted these to motivate others. We gave prices to the highest steppers. Our senior citizens also took part in this challenge. It was a lot of fun.

BCA-USA MIRROR

Constitution

Crafting our local constitution has been a work in progress. We started working on it right before the pandemic hit. As a result of the pandemic, the constitution was put on hold until we could physically meet and complete it. The constitution was finally completed and adopted in December 2021.

Challenges

the leadership of Ni Nyugha Caspa weathered the pandemic and kept the group growing strong. We held meetings via zoom and found fun activities to do together even when we could not meet physically! Bali Carolina stayed motivated and passionate and came out much stronger after the pandemic!

Shout out to the new executive, who, under the leadership of Ni Collins Doh, hit the ground running! One of the first things they’ve done is to create a hosting calendar that spanned 14 months – from Jan 2022 to Feb 2023. This has immediately resolved an on-going challenge we had always faced with finding a place to host.

Some of the challenges we face as a chapter are travel time to meetings and conducting projects back home. Bali Carolinas spans across two states so sometimes some of our members travel 2-3 hours to attend an in-person meeting. We have also faced some challenges with finding a project to do Chapter executives 2021 – 2022 back home. The pandemic and current political • President: Ni Colins Doh challenges at home have made this quite hard.

• Vice President: Ni Yvonne Tah • Secretary General: Ma Evangeline Caspa Big shout out to our leadership – both new • Financial Secretary: Ni Claude Sema and old!

• Treasurer: Ma Emma Foncham We voted in a new executive in December 2021, • Cultural Secretary: Ni Nelson Sema and they took office in January 2022 • Chief Whip: Ni Kevin Nubiga Shout out to the outgoing executive, who, under

BCA-USA.ORG

45

BCA-USA MIRROR

NORTHERN CHAPTER REPORT Patrick Nyuga Tita,

President, Northern Chapter

T

he Northern Chapter is made up of Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Membership continues to grow steadily as seen from the increase of 76 registered members in 2021 to 84 as of April 2022. This number is likely to increase as some are still registering and planning to attend the 2022 BCA USA Annual Convention in Herndon, Virginia.

There are two important meeting groups in Minnesota that make up the Northern Chapter.

These are Ndâ Ntɔd Minnesota led by Ma Mary Babaya and Ndâ Kòŋni Minnesota led by Ma Bridget Fosam.

The Northern Chapter is still well pleased with their memorable performance during the 2019 BCAUSA Annual Convention. A double pride was ours as we hosted the National Convention which was a resounding success and secured the first position in the BCA cultural dance competition. Please watch the video on YouTube and you will love to be part of this association.

As with everywhere else, the pandemic restrained most of our planned physical activities.

46

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

The Chapter however, when possible, organized a final farewell and life celebration for some family members who passed in Cameroon and elsewhere. A few of these can be seen from the wake and final farewell of Ni Patrick Nyuga Tita our distinguished Kǎ Màmfòn organized by the Chapter last year.

The Chapter is always very supportive of members who have events like graduations, weddings, christening, milestone birthdays and much more.

The Chapter is currently supporting one of our own (Dr. Sam Dinga) who structured a charitable organization (Mah Kah Foundation). This charitable organization has built an orphanage in Douala, Cameroon which was opened in January this

BCA-USA MIRROR

year. Much more support is still needed to run the orphanage.

One initiative implemented during the pandemic was to invite speakers to Zoom meetings. In a quest for growth and knowledge of the cultural structure of Bali, Ndâ Ntɔd, one of our meeting groups invited Ni Kehbuma Langmia and Ni Jude Fokwang who gave presentations about the Bali cultural heritage.

It was an exceptionally informative experience as affirmed by members who learned a lot from these two honored speakers.

The Chapter also ran a fund drive, raised money, and supported one of the Chapter members who was seriously hit by Covid-19 and was down for over six months. More importantly, on April 2nd this year, the Northern Chapter was also honored by the presence of the National President, Ni Clarence Ndangam during one of our in-person meetings. He joined us via Zoom and we introduced

ourselves and Ba President gave us an update on how BCA is doing and then answered questions from our members who were very excited to have him around. The Northern Chapter continues to thank and wish Ba President Clarence Ndangam the best in his leadership.

The Northern Chapter has been running with appointed executives since its creation in 2013.

During our April 2022 meeting, the Chapter decided that there will be an election of new executives after the Convention. The current active executives are: • Ni Patrick Nyuga, President • Dr Sam Dinga, Secretary General.

• Ni Ivo Kehdinga Fofuleng, Financial Secretary • Ma Veronica Bassa, Treasurer • Dr. Chris Fokumlah, First Adviser • Ni Nevil Guijang ,Adviser • Dr. Kennedy Nyongbela, Culture Chair BCA-USA.ORG

47

BCA-USA MIRROR

EASTERN CHAPTER REPORT Ni Augustine Njinjoh

President, Eastern Chapter

T

he Eastern Chapter comprises Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware and West Virginia.

The Eastern Chapter is the largest Chapter in BCA USA by more than half. Our membership grew to 359 members in 2021.

In 2021, there was a change in leadership in the Eastern Chapter. Our long-term serving President Ni Gabriel Njinimbot stepped down and was replaced by his Vice President, Ni Augustine Njinjoh. (Thank you for your service, Ni Gab) • New Eastern Chapter Executive: • President – Ni Augustine Njinjoh • Vice President – Ni Rudolph Njakenji • Secretary General – Ma Cindy Moore

48

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

• Financial Secretary – Ma Dilys Fosung • Cultural Secretary – Ma Nahbon Susan/Ni Derrick Nchamukong Because of pandemic restrictions and lock downs, the Eastern Chapter was quiet during the last three years.

Our biggest challenge in the Eastern Chapter right now, is finding affordable space that can hold our numbers for General Assembly purposes. We continue to work on that.

The Eastern Chapter is very honored to be the hosting Chapter of the first convention after a two year hiatus because of Covid 19. We are working overtime to give Bali people the best DC can offer.

See you all in DC in a few weeks

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA MIDWEST

By Ma Nyem Fokwang

Secretary, Midwest-Denver

B

CA Midwest Chapter covers the states of Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Utah. The chapter has 28 registered members.

Language is an integral part of any culture. We are proud of our chapter members who continue to promote Mungaka language in various innovative ways. A 14 week session of Mungaka 101 taught by Ni Jude Fokwang to basic learners and non-native speakers concluded in April this year. During the session, participants learned basic vocabulary and expressions in Mungaka such as introductions, numbers, time telling, family and food. Congratulations to chapter member Ma Nyem Fokwang on the publication of her bilingual word book on Mungaka words and pictures - a vital resource which goes Like much of the world, the pandemic took its toll on our members and our group. As a group we were not able to meet in person. Several of our members are frontline workers and were impacted in different ways.With the approval of the Covid-19 vaccine, most of our members including children have received the vaccine.

Despite the challenges posed to in person gatherings due to the pandemic, we found creative ways to get together. For instance,

Members of the Mid West Chapter

Midwest-Denver members organized a drive-by baby shower for the Gangdia family in 2020. The family welcomed baby Shepard Dema in 2020 and baby Esther Nahsang in 2021.

We e x t e n d a h e a r t y congratulations to Leina Ndango who is graduating from Lee’s Summit High School, Kansas City and heading to college in the fall.

In the fall of 2021, MidwestKansas City resumed in person meetings and have been able to meet regularly since. MidwestDenver has also held its first in person meeting in the fall 2021.

More meetings are planned for the summer.

Our chapter members continue to be engaged and involved in BCA-USA activities with members volunteering in different committees.

• Tita Nyuga Galega - Culture

Committee • Ni Jude Fokwang – Chair of Awards Sub committee, Chair of Mungaka Bible Committee, member of Culture Committee, member of Constitution and Elections Committee.

• Ma Lilian N. Fokwang - Chair of Publications Committee and Member of Education Committee • Ni Julius Ndangam - BCA IT Admin and Member of Education Committee • Ma Mado Ndangam – Member of Social Committee Ma Irene Tita – Vice Chair of Publications Committee The BCA-Midwest chapter is strong. We look forward to a very successful and memorable reunion in Herndon, Virginia.

BCA-USA.ORG

49

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA SOUTHERN TEXAS

THRIVING AND EXCITED TO HOST THE 2023 CONVENTION

By Ni Francis Fokwang President Southern Texas

B

CA Southern Texas Chapter has grown in the past year reaching a total of 141 members including 34 children. This total also includes 5 new members who joined us in 2022. We have a total of 86 members who are ŋkab ŋtɔd participants.

During our gathering in November 2021, a new executive was elected to continue fostering the goals of BCA Southern Texas.

Members of the executive are: • President: Ni Francis Fokwang • Vice President: Ma Vera Awah Mwaka • Secretary: Ma Yeluma

Fonchamyo • Treasurer: Ma Nina Selia • Financial Secretary: Ma Mercy Awah Ngang • Publicity Secretary: Ma Linda Titamongu • Chief Whip: Ni Eugene Ngang

Solidarity & Support BCA Southern Texas was not exempted from the claws of Covid-19. The pandemic greatly affected our ability to hold any in-person gatherings until November 2021 when more people got vaccinated and some

Southern Texas Christmas Party 2021

50

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

Ni Francis Fokwang

restrictions were lifted. Before the omicron variant hit and forced us to resume virtual monthly meetings, we had conducted our chapter elections in November

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA Southern Texas Executive

and held an end of year party in December 2021.

During the party, our new executives were officially installed. Though some members reported sick, thankfully, no deaths were recorded. However, Southern Texas has had its share of bereavements.

These have been very challenging times for our Southern Texas family. Nevertheless, the support, prayers and solidarity exercised by members to the grieving families are overwhelming and I commend them for it and feel proud to be part of this chapter.

In the midst of desolation, we’ve also had our jubilations. In June 2021, the Southern Texas family was blessed with many new babies.

We look to returning to in-person meetings after the convention. Our meetings are held on the third Saturday of every month so I invite all BCA-USA members and friends of BCA who happen to be in Houston on such a day to join us and celebrate our culture and diversity.

I’ll like to congratulate Virginie Jaelle Tchalla Ava for raising and keeping the flagship of our youth high. Jaelle is part of the Class of 2022 and, heading to college in the fall. She also applied in

the scholarship program sponsored by the BCA Education committee On behalf of the Southern Texas Family, I’ll like to congratulate and thank Washington DC for hosting us. We appreciate your hospitality and applaud all those who have worked tirelessly from your chapter, NEC and in all Committees to make this Convention a success.

Future plans

One of our goals is to acquire drums, rattle (nchǎʼchàʼ) and other musical instruments to equip our music and dance group.

We are excited to host the Convention 2023 and promise you the finest of Bali and Southern hospitality! We are planning lots of exciting things for you so start making plans for BCA Houston Edition.

May God bless BCA Southern Texas and May God bless BCA-USA.

BCA-USA.ORG

51

BCA-USA MIRROR

SOUTH EASTERN CHAPTER REPORT

52

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA OKLAHOMA CHAPTER REPORT Ma Quinta Fogam

President, Oklahoma Chapter Bàʼni ̀, ccept warm greetings from all the sons/daughters of Bali-Nyonga in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma chapter consists of members from Norman, Tulsa, Edmond and Oklahoma City with a majority of members based in Oklahoma City. The year 2020 through 2021 have been very challenging because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Most of our members were sick with Covid-19 but we are blessed no death was recorded within our Bali community. Oklahoma chapter has recently faced lots of challenges in running chapter activities due to the pandemic which made it difficult for us to have in-person meetings, so we resorted into having Zoom meetings every 3 months although members’ attendance has been very poor. We are currently working on modalities on how to resume our regular chapter meetings, and ways to revamp the chapter and getting

A

chapter affairs back as normal while keeping safety in mind as well to prevent the spread of Covid-19 among our members.

Despite all the challenges faced by this chapter due to the pandemic, we were able to carry out two humanitarian relief support projects last year. One was for our brother in Dallas, Texas and another one to a family in Bali that cried for help. Despite the pandemic, members still pay their dues on time. In 2021 the chapter recorded growth in membership with 150 registered BCA members, 134 Ŋkab-Ntɔd members and 94 registered Ŋkab-Ntɔd kids. Kudos to all BCA Oklahoma members for always pulling through very strongly! The chapter executive’s is made up of the following Exco members: • President: Ma Quinta Fogam • Vice president: Ni Goddy Gwaabe • Treasure: Ni Festus Ndibmun • Publicity secretary: Ma Nancy Fogam • Social committee chairs: Ma Mercy Nukuna and Ma

Ma Quinta Fogam

Betina Titajani • Cultural committee chair: Ni Sama Rene.

These powerful men and women have been working tirelessly to make sure the Chapter functions despite the numerous challenges it has faced recently. The entire chapter at this time is looking forward, with enthusiasm, to attending the 2022 convention in Virginia after going for two years with no convention. Long live BCA-USA, long live Oklahoma chapter.

God’s blessings on us all.

BCA-USA.ORG

53

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA NEW ENGLAND CHAPTER

By Ma Judith Gwanvalla-Fokum President, New England Chapter

B

CA-New England covers the states of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. It is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts and has 28 registered members.

We kept in touch with each other during the pandemic by reaching out through phone calls and our WhatsApp forum. We had monthly meetings using Zoom which were always the highlight of each month. It was not unusual for members to stay on the zoom call until past 1:00am while enjoying their favorite beverages (daddy’s juice).

The pandemic was also a time to remember the less fortunate and it was in this light that 2 of our members, Ma Mercy Fokwang and Ma Bobmia Galega, brought gifts which we donated to the food pantry.

It was not all rosy. We lost one of our members, Ma Odilia Nwana late last year. We sincerely thank the association for all the assistance given to us and the family.

We could not wait for the opportunity to have an in-person meeting which finally took place in the month of April 2022 hosted by our newest member, Ni Lidwin Nyonka. It was a day to remember.

54

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

We have celebrated kids’ graduations and the birth of my first grandchild.

It is still a challenge to get some members to commit to and participate in the monthly meetings but we continue to work hard on that in hope that we improve our participation rate.

We plan on inaugurating our new uniform which had to be put on hold the last 2 years hoping we will still fit in them given our growth in the abdominal area!

Executive • President: Judith Gwanvalla-Fokum • Vice: Ni Isaac Fombuh • Treasurer: Ma Beatrice Tchouta-Niboh • Secretary: Ni Conrad Fomuso • Chief whip: Ma Mercy Fokwang • Secretary General: Ma Anne Domatob.

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA NORTHERN TEXAS REPORT

By Ni Julius Nsah

President, Northern Texas Chapter

I

The chapter has 84 registered Nkap Ntod members, which includes 11 new members, 2 youths and 16 senior citizens.

Because of the pandemic there has been little or no activities in the chapter. Some of our members got sick during the pandemic and I am glad to say they all recovered and are in good health. Also some members lost loved ones during this time and unfortunately the chapter could not condole with them as a family though some members did individually. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my executives especially Ni Wilson Njinuwo - treasurer and Ma Partricia Ndibuli – social secretary for their wonderful and endless contribution in making sure that the chapter functions well.

took over from Ma Candice Ngwa in the middle of the pandemic in September 2021. Owing to the pandemic, the chapter has been holding meetings virtually for over two years. These meetings have been infrequent and not easy to bring members together. This has really slowed down the momentum of members in the chapter. Because of this slow down in momentum we decided in January 2022, to start holding in person meetings again. The first chapter in person meeting was held in March 2022 and the second was on Saturday April 30th. We plan to continue these meetings without failure.

BCA Northern Texas currently has 92 registered members for 2021 – 2022, which includes 5 new Long Live BCA Northern Texas members,87 old members and 18 senior citizens. Long Live BCA-USA

BCA-USA.ORG

55

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA GREAT LAKES CHAPTER

By Na Tema Pefok – Zama

President, Great Lakes Chapter

Membership Snapshot

As of April 23, 2022 the Great Lake membership is as follows: • Seniors - 7 • Adults - 39 • Youths – 10 • Kids – 8

Nkap Ntod

As of April 23, 2022, the Great Lake Nkap Ntod membership is as follows: • Seniors – 7 • Adults - 34 • Youths – 8 • Kids – 8 • Deceased – 2

Events/Activities:

New chapter uniform: The chapter uniform was launched at the October 2021 meeting in Chicago. The success of this committee was evident when 90% of members at the October meeting showed up in their chapter uniform.

Thanks to Ma Marion and Ni Dr. Sema Fofung for heading this Committee and doing an excellent job.

Chapter Bylaws: The by-law committee was re-instated to review the current by-law and make some amendments. Part of the amendment was to separate the chapter interest activities such as member support from 501c3 activities. Ni Dr. Chris 56

GreatLakes_meet_uniform_2021.jpeg

Botanga Fonkenmun heads this committee.

Community outreach: Despite all the challenges of the pandemic, last year the Greatlakes chapter was able to participate in two community outreach events.

During Thanksgiving the Greatlakes chapter partnered with Westminster Church of Detroit to provide some financial support and showed up to help purchase, prepare, package, and deliver meals that served over 1,400 individuals who are homebound or homeless.

Secondly, in December the

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

Great Lakes Chapter again partnered with Westminster church of Detroit to prepare and serve warm meals to the homeless.

State of the chapter: Overall the chapter is doing well despite the challenges of the pandemic. During the pandemic we held virtual chapter meetings via Zoom. We also had the opportunity to invite the national president to our meeting and members were able to ask questions and have them answered. We continue to support each other in good and sad times.

One chapter member lost his dad.

BCA-USA MIRROR The chapter responded in accordance with the newly instituted bylaws.

The chapter also lost two members this year: • Mama Lucy Zama • Mama Enid Thomas Congratulations to our Graduates: • Ni Winner Gansen Dobgima – Granger Middle school Naperville Illinois • Ni Marvellous-Love Foncham Dobgima – Longwood Elementary School Naperville Illinois • Ma Sona RoseAnne Fokum – University of Illinois Chicago. M.S. in Public Health (Minors in Chemistry and Biological Science.

• Ma Nina Koyilla – University of Arizona. B.S. Molecular Biology • Ma Matilda Koyilla – Chamberlain University.

Family Nurse Practitioner

Chapter challenges:

This chapter is scattered across five different states, (Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Michigan and Ohio) which makes it challenging to physically get together often. To mitigate this challenge, we are having more virtual meetings and less face-to-face meetings.

Executive Members • • • •

President: Na Tema Pefok - Zama Secretary: Ma Marion Nji Treasurer: Ni Pelklin Fofung Chief Whip: Ma Mercy Tawu

BCA-USA.ORG

57

BCA-USA MIRROR

Nina Koyilla BS Molecular Biology University of Arizona Great Lakes Chapter

Marie Chiatoh-Gwanmesia Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia of Practice Advent Health University, Orlando South Eastern Chapter

Matilda Koyilla MS Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner Chamberlain University Great Lakes Chapter

Dayela Mulonga Kahpene Lima Shorter University, Rome, GA Bachelor of Music, Magna Cum Laude

Gladys Sama Xavier University, Louisiana BSc Psychology South Eastern Chapter

58

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

Sona Rose Anne Fokum Pre-Medicine The University of Illinois Chicago Great Lakes Chapter

Ashley Gwananji University of Houston Bachelors in Psychology/ Minor in Law, Values, and Policy Southern Texas Chapter

Nicole Bobga BSC in Biology Clovis Community College, Fresno, California Southern California Chapter

BCA-USA MIRROR

MIDDLE SCHOOL CONTINUATION

Gima Achaki Anyangwe St. Mary’s of the Mills Laurel, MD Eastern Chapter

Winner Gasen Dobgima Granger Middle School Naperville, Illinois Great Lakes Chapter

HIGH SCHOOL

Kehbuma Nukuna Charter School of Wilmington Delaware Eastern Chapter

Virginie Jaelle Ava Tchalla George Bush High School Houston, Texas Southern Texas Chapter

Jalla Fomunung East Hamilton High School Chattanooga TN South Eastern Chapter

Babila Rohi Sama Western Heights High School Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Oklahoma Chapter

Leina Ndango Lee’s Summit High School Lee’s Summit, Missouri Midwest Chapter

Annkelly Devala Ndangam Middletown Highschool Salutatorian and highest ranking female student 2022 Middletown, Delaware Eastern Chapter BCA-USA.ORG

59

BCA-USA MIRROR

VIRTUAL TOWNHALL 2020

O

ver 140 members participated in the first May 29, equally saw a massive online attendance of ever BCA-USA video townhall organized on members around and outside the USA. Highlights Saturday May 23rd 2020. The Zoom event provided included: an opportunity for members to meet virtually and • President's State of the Association to get updates from the association's leadership.

• Board of Directors updates Highlights from the event included the • Messages from partner associations: Ŋkù'mɨ ̀ celebration of graduates, the presentation of BCAFɛd Fɛd, BCDA-UK, BCA Belgium, BCA USA scholarship recipients and an update on the Germany, BCA Canada state of the association as well as a virtual after• Virtual Chapter Parade party that went on for over 8 hours!

• Graduate celebration The first virtual convention hosted on Saturday • Recognition of scholarship recipients

60

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

VIRTUAL CONVENTION 2021

BCA-USA.ORG

61

BCA-USA MIRROR CONVENTION CRUISE 2019: BRUNCH AND SIGHTSEEING ON LAKE MINNETONKA

62

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA.ORG

63

BCA-USA MIRROR

MUNGAKA CORNER: Njə̂ Bànyàm kà Chɔ̂’ Mfò yàb a

By Ni Jude Fokwang

Ŋgɔ̀ŋ bànyàm mɛ’ kà bàti mà chɔ’ mfò yàb. Mfò yàb kǎ ntâ’ bə̂ nyàm yi ̀, i ji ̀’ti mbɔ̀ŋkɛd a, ŋkǔ’ mbə ŋgâ, i li ̌n mà sǎm lə̌ŋ mfòn i kwà’ à sɨ’ni ̀.

Nchu’ bo kà bo mà chɔ’ yɔ̀ mfò yàb a, mɔ̌’ nyàm kǎ mà mbə mà kwə̀’ni bə, mbi’ i ̀lâ’ nyàm bo chɔ’ i a, bə mà bu’ti nchě ni ̀ nchu’ vù i a.

Nchu’ lɛ kù’, kimàŋkɔ̀’ nô bɨ ̀ bô fǔ kwǎ bɔ̀m. Alɛ nchu’ bànyàm mɛ’ kà bomti a, kimàŋkɔ̀’ ti bə.

Alɛ bi ̀mɔ̂’ bànyàm mɛ’ kà li ̌n ŋgâ, i kwə̀’ni mɨ. Ndi ̀b bo kà beb, kɨ ̀ yə i bə a, bànyàm mɛ’ tûm mâŋgɔb mà ghə̌ ntà’ti nù à yě ŋgâ kimàŋkɔ̀’ ma nto bə a. Ndi ̀b mâŋgɔb lɛ kà chě wu’ a, kimàŋkɔ̀’ lɔ̀’ i, bo i ghə̀ manjàm nda i ̀ ma lɨ ̀’ i kǎ ŋkwa fɔ’ a. Mâŋgɔb lɛ bim ŋgâ kimàŋkɔ’ kǎ njaŋ nchə̀bnsi. Bà njə̂ i kǎ njaŋ bi a, i suŋ ŋgâ mɔ̌’ Nswen nyàm bə̌ mbə wu’ yi ̀, bofà i bim mà to ncham i a, mbə̂ i to chě ma lɨ ̀’ mà chɔ’ mfò bànyàm lɛ. Nswen kà bim mɛ’ njə̂ mfò yàb. Ŋgɔ̀ŋ bànyàm mɛ’ wɔmti ̀ i, ntɔŋ sa’ ni ̀ mà ghə̌ ncham i. Nswen bi chě wu’, kimàŋkɔ̀’ bə̂ we’ tù i, mbim i ni ̀ mfò yàb, mbi’ ji ̀’ti ̀ i, mbə ŋgɔ̀ŋ nù mɛ’ mɨ nji ̀ bi kwà’ bi ̀ mbɔ̀ŋkɛd. Alɛ i kà kɔbti ŋkwɛ̌n nswen i kǎ nje ŋgɔ̀ŋ nchu’ mvi mɛ’ a. lɛ ni ̀ nji ̂ mbɔ̀ŋkɛd sɛ̌, nji kɔ’ ni ̀ ŋkwɛ̌n i ̀.

Nswen ka’ ti’ mbɨŋɨ wu’ ni ̀ chə’ntɨm boà sɔ̀bni ̀ mbə̂ nsɨn.

BEGINNER’S RESOURCES

Kimàŋkɔ̀’

Alɛ i kà ji ̌d kwà’ mbɔ̀ŋkɛd kɨ ŋkwɛ̂n nswen lɛ, ŋgə̌ nchě wu’. Bo bi chě wu’, i bə suŋ mɨ mbò nswen lɛ ŋgâ i lɔ’ i, ŋgə̌ mɨ ma ghə̀ghə’ mà lə̌ŋ mfòn lɛ kà bə a, ma lɨ ̀’ ŋgɔ̀ŋ bànyàm mɛ’ kà li ̌n mà yə ni a; ghɨ ̀ghɨ ̌n nswen yu’ bub, ŋkɨ njě bub. Ndi ̀b bo kà chě wu’ ma ghə̀ghə’ lɨ ̀’ lɛ a, kimàŋkɔ̀’ swi ̀, ndàmti, ŋkɔ’, nchi bi ni ̀ lə̌ŋ mfòn lɛ.

Ndi ̀b i kà kɔ’ nchi ni ̀ lə̀ŋ lɛ a, i chu mbò bànyàm 64

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

BCA-USA MIRROR

BCA-USA 2019 AWARD HONOREES

OUTSTANDING YOUTH Ma Bola Njinibam

MEMBER OF THE YEAR Ba Joe Fomukong

Rising Star of the Year Ma Ursula Fombon

LIFE TIME ACHIEVEMENT Ba Moses Titamohkumi

EXECLLENCE IN LEADERSHIP Ni Colins Doh

PRESIDENT’S AWARD Ma Candace Akwa Ni Chris Fokumlah The BHRF

BCA-USA.ORG

65

BCA-USA MIRROR

IN MEMORIAM 2019 - 2022 Ma Agnes Nahlesu Fogam 1956 - 2019

Ma Elizabeth Bih Nyama 1952 - 2020

Mama Enid Thomas 1931 - 2022

Mama Lucy Zama 1945 -2022

Mama Hannah Kah Ndi 1926 - 2021

Mama Odilia Mantan Nwana 1942 - 2021

Ni Henry Sigala Fokam 1951 - 2021

66

Ma Agnes Nkontan Fosam 1947 - 2019

BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA

Mami Cecilia Awah Warah 1951 - 2021

Shey WanManjo Aloysius Ngalim 1937 - 2021

PAROLES DE SAGESSE

Par Ma Irene Andin Tita Ma Nahsala: Vien ici, dépêche-toi Buma: Me voici.

Ma Nahsala: Prête-moi tes oreilles Buma: Mes oreilles? Vous vous souvenez quand Mike Tyson a mordu l'oreille d'Evander Holyfield?

Ma Nahsala: Tais-toi. Tu peux être agaçant. Assieds-toi et écoute attentivement. Personne ne te doit rien dans cette vie. Rien ne t'appartient. Tout appartient au Bon Dieu. Il nous a créé pour lui servir. Ça, c'est la plus importante.

Dans 1 Timothée 6:7, « Nu, je suis sorti du ventre de ma mère, et nu je reviendrai. »En plus, sois sage, méfie-toi. Tout ce qui brille n'est pas or. Voltaire a dit que, « Ceux

qui peuvent vous faire croire à des absurdités peuvent vous faire commettre des atrocités.»

Buma: Qui est Voltaire?

Ma Nahsala: Voltaire était un philosophe et écrivain français qui a vécu dans le 18 ème siècle. Tu me prépares une petite biographie de Voltaire. Sois gentil, prie toujours, d'accord?

Buma: D'accord, merci beaucoup!

Ma Nahsala: De rien.